buzz off
Mid (informal)Informal, Impolite
Definition
Meaning
An impolite, informal command to go away or leave someone alone.
A phrasal verb used as a forceful or annoyed dismissal, typically expressing irritation or a desire to end an interaction. It implies the speaker wants immediate departure and often signals annoyance at an intrusion.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily imperative; almost always used as a command. While grammatically a phrasal verb, it functions as an exclamation in most contexts. Its directness makes it more offensive than 'go away' but generally less severe than stronger swear-based expletives.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Slightly more common and established in British English. In American English, it may be perceived as a bit dated or euphemistic compared to more direct alternatives. The 'buzz' metaphor (evoking an annoying insect) is similarly understood in both.
Connotations
UK: A classic, recognizable, mildly rude dismissal. Often used with a tone of annoyed impatience. US: Can sound old-fashioned or like a softened substitute for harsher language. Sometimes used humorously due to its perceived mildness.
Frequency
More frequent in British English. In American English, its use has declined relative to terms like 'get lost', 'scram', or stronger expletives, though it remains understood.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] + tell + [Object] + to buzz off.[Imperative]: Buzz off![Subject] + buzz off + (adverbial).Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Tell someone to buzz off”
- “Buzz off and leave me be”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Highly inappropriate and unprofessional. Would damage workplace relationships.
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Used in informal, often confrontational situations among peers, family (especially children/teenagers), or when expressing annoyance to a stranger.
Technical
Not used.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- He wouldn't stop pestering me, so I finally told him to buzz off.
- The kids were annoying us, so we told them to buzz off and play elsewhere.
American English
- The salesman was too pushy, so I just said, 'Buzz off, pal.'
- He buzzed off after I made it clear I wasn't interested.
adverb
British English
- N/A (not used as an adverb)
American English
- N/A (not used as an adverb)
adjective
British English
- N/A (not used as an adjective)
American English
- N/A (not used as an adjective)
Examples
By CEFR Level
- He is noisy. Tell him to buzz off.
- I don't want to talk. Just buzz off, please.
- The journalist was asking invasive questions, so the celebrity told him to buzz off.
- After enduring his unsolicited advice for ten minutes, she finally snapped, 'Why don't you just buzz off and mind your own business?'
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine an annoying BUZZing fly that you want to send OFF and away from you. The phrase has the same quick, dismissive swatting motion in words.
Conceptual Metaphor
ANNOYANCE/INTRUSION IS A BUZZING INSECT (to be swatted away).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Not a direct command to be silent ('заткнись' = shut up). It is about departure.
- The politeness level is closer to 'отвали' or 'отстань' rather than the softer 'уйди'.
- Translating the word 'buzz' literally ('жужжать') will confuse the meaning.
Common Mistakes
- Using it in a formal context.
- Using it as a polite request (e.g., 'Could you please buzz off?' is contradictory).
- Confusing it with 'buzz' meaning to call on the phone (e.g., 'buzz me later').
Practice
Quiz
In which situation would 'buzz off' be LEAST appropriate?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is not a swear word. It is an impolite and direct command, but it does not contain profanity. It is considered rude and dismissive.
Yes, among friends who understand your tone and humour, it can be used jokingly. However, it still carries an edge of dismissal, so context and relationship are key.
'Buzz off' is more forceful, impolite, and expresses annoyance. 'Go away' is a direct command but can be said in a neutral or even pleading tone. 'Buzz off' always implies irritation.
Not directly. To be polite, you must use entirely different phrasing, such as 'I need some time alone, please,' 'Could you give me some space?' or 'I'd prefer not to talk right now.'