bossing around
Commanding others constantly
Bossing around is ordering someone about in a domineering way, especially when you lack the authority to do so: Stop bossing me around.
The phrase implies petty tyranny—a child bossing younger siblings, a coworker overstepping.
To boss someone around is to treat them as subordinate without legitimate cause.
- supervisingDirecting and monitoring work
- commandingExerting strong authority
- calling the shotsBeing the one deciding
- domineeringAggressively asserting control
- controllingExerting authority over others
running the show · intimidating · directing · dictatorial · belittling · micromanaging · patronizing · demoralizing · governing · bulldozing · hectoring · managing · overbearing · laying down the law · pushy · pulling rank · demanding · instructing
bossing aroundobeying
Following directives given
taking orders · submitting · complying · deferring · kowtowing
bossing aroundconsulting
Giving expert advice professionally
collaborating · entreating · beseeching · imploring · suggesting
bossing aroundempowering
Giving authority or confidence
collaborating · delegating · leading by example · mentoring · supporting