busting
word · lemma: bust
Definition
'Busting' is the present participle or gerund form of 'bust.' It often means breaking or smashing something, but can also mean stopping illegal activity or capturing someone, especially in informal or police-related contexts.
Usage & Nuances
'Busting' is informal and often used with police (e.g. 'busting a gang'), breaking objects (e.g. 'busting doors'), or expressing energetic action (e.g. 'busting out laughing'). Avoid using it in formal writing. 'Busting' can also appear in idiomatic phrases like 'busting a move' (dancing) or 'busting someone's chops' (teasing someone).
Example Sentences
The police are busting a drug ring downtown.
basic
She is busting the old boxes in the garage.
basic
Kids were busting balloons at the party.
basic
He was caught busting a move on the dance floor.
natural
We were all busting out laughing at his joke.
natural
They're busting their chops to finish this project on time.
natural