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.

---

business end British  

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of business end

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

"We had some good chances, credit to them they did too. We're in the business end of the season now. We always feel dangerous - we always feel like we can score goals for sure."

From BBC • Apr. 7, 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

In his video, Rourke admitted the business end of his business has never been his strong suit.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 6, 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

She’s the business end of Dad’s handyman service, and since Dad has an aversion to paperwork, things would be completely disorganized without her.

From "The Running Dream" by Wendelin Van Draanen