The business end of Meaning in English
expression
Definición
'The business end of' something means the part that does the main work, usually the dangerous, active, or effective end, like a knife's blade or a gun's barrel. It can also refer to the most important or impactful part of a process or situation.
Uso & Matices
Often used informally and metaphorically. Literal meaning is for tools/weapons (the end that acts), but can apply to any situation's most critical part ('the business end of the deal'). Avoid using for people. 'The business end of' is often followed by 'a stick', 'a gun', 'a knife', etc.
Oraciones de Ejemplo
Don't point the business end of the stick at people.
basic
Be careful with the business end of that knife.
basic
He found himself at the business end of a gun.
basic
When negotiations get tough, we're finally at the business end of the deal.
natural
Nobody wants to be on the business end of a bad joke.
natural
You don’t want to be at the business end of her anger when she’s upset.
natural