Bust your chops Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To tease, criticize, or bother someone, usually in a playful or joking way, but sometimes to annoy or put pressure on them.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal, often playful American English idiom. Commonly used among friends or coworkers. It can be light teasing ('stop busting my chops!') or imply pushing someone to work harder ('the boss is busting my chops about the deadline'). Avoid in formal situations.
Example Sentences
Stop busting my chops, I'm doing my best.
basic
The teacher likes to bust our chops if we forget our homework.
basic
He's just busting your chops, don't take it seriously.
basic
My boss has been busting my chops all week about that report.
natural
Are you really mad or just busting my chops?
natural
Every time I make a mistake, you bust my chops about it.
natural