bust-up
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A serious quarrel or argument, especially one that ends a relationship or friendship. It refers to a significant, often angry, disagreement that causes a permanent rupture between people.
Usage
The word "bust-up" is an informal noun, primarily used in British English. It describes a major, disruptive argument that typically results in the end of an association, such as a friendship, partnership, or romantic relationship. It emphasizes the finality and severity of the conflict.
Examples
- The two business partners had a huge bust-up over money and haven't spoken since.
- Their famous bust-up at the awards ceremony was reported in all the newspapers.
- I don't want to cause a bust-up, but we really need to talk about what happened.
Advanced Usage
- "to have a bust-up (with someone)": This is the most common construction, describing the act of engaging in the serious quarrel.
- She had a bust-up with her flatmate and moved out the next day.
Variants and Related Words
- Bust up (phrasal verb): To break or cause something to break, often violently. It can also mean to end a relationship.
- The police busted up the fight. (To break up)
- I heard they busted up last month. (To end a relationship)
Synonyms
- Row: A noisy argument or dispute.
- Fallout: A serious quarrel or estrangement.
- Rift: A serious break in friendly relations.
- Blow-up: A sudden explosion of anger or argument.
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Break up: To end a relationship. (This is more common and neutral than "bust up").
- They decided to break up after ten years together.
Noun
- a serious quarrel (especially one that ends a friendship)