business end

American  

noun

1. the front part or end of a tool, weapon, etc., with which the work is done or from which a missile is ejected, as opposed to the handle or butt.

   the business end of a revolver; the business end of a screwdriver.

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business end British  

noun

1. informal the part of a tool or weapon that does the work, as contrasted with the handle

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Etymology

Origin of business end

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

From heavy punk numbers to jazzy R&B ballads and solemn country-infused performances, the academy celebrated those who have shaped music, whether it’s on the artistry end or the business end of things.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 2, 2026

After brutal heat nearing 40C disrupted play on Saturday, temperatures eased to 22C at Melbourne Park as the business end of the tournament started.

From Barron's • Jan. 25, 2026

Two first-half goals from Harry Kane and Heung-min Son gave Tottenham hope of chasing the Foxes down at the business end of the season.

From BBC • Dec. 15, 2025

There are layers of bureaucracy between the Secretary of Defense and the business end of a missile.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 1, 2025

He makes up a set of books, for the business end of my painting: what has sold, and for how much.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood