boss around

Idioms and Phrases

Tell someone what to do, give orders. For example, David complained that his older sister was always bossing him around . The use of boss in the sense of “to dominate” dates from the mid-1800s, and around was added a few decades later.

Example Sentences

Most of his characters may be undemocratic, but he shows no interest in bossing around his viewers.

From New York Times

In terms of being bossed around by a bunch of newbies, I suggest you find your own voice.

From Washington Post

Progressives have a metabolic urge to boss around the private sector.

From Washington Post

China says the West still thinks it can boss around the world in a colonial way and says Beijing will define its own path without meddling from foreign powers.

From Reuters

The Rams’ offensive line got bossed around in the biggest game of the season.

From Seattle Times