horn in
Definition
Verb: * To intrude or interfere in a situation, conversation, or activity without being invited or welcome. It implies butting in or interrupting in a meddlesome or unwelcome way.
Usage
The verb "horn in" is used to describe the action of forcing oneself into a situation where one is not wanted. It carries a negative connotation of rudeness or meddlesomeness. It is often followed by the preposition "on" to specify the situation being intruded upon.
Examples
- We were having a private discussion when he tried to horn in.
- She always horns in on our plans without asking.
- I wish my neighbor would stop horning in on my gardening projects with unsolicited advice.
Advanced Usage
- "to horn in on the act": A common idiomatic extension meaning to intrude on an activity, especially one that is successful or gaining attention, in order to share in the benefits or spotlight.
- As soon as the startup became profitable, several investors tried to horn in on the act.
Variants and Related Words
- Horn (noun): The hard, pointed, often curved growth on the heads of animals like cattle or goats. The phrasal verb "horn in" metaphorically derives from the image of an animal using its horns to push its way into a space.
Synonyms
- Butt in: To interrupt a conversation or activity rudely.
- Intrude: To put oneself into a situation where one is not welcome.
- Interfere: To involve oneself in a situation without invitation or necessity.
- Meddle: To interfere in something that is not one's concern.
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Nose in / Nose around: To pry into or investigate other people's affairs in an intrusive way. (This is the meaning referenced in your context: "This guy is always nosing around the office.")
- Stop nosing in on my personal emails.
Related Idioms
- Stick one's nose in: To interfere in someone else's business.
- I wish he wouldn't stick his nose in where it's not wanted.
- Muscle in: To use force or pressure to gain involvement in something, often for personal profit.
- The larger company tried to muscle in on the smaller firm's territory.
Verb
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search or inquire in a meddlesome way
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This guy is always nosing around the office
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