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

In recent weeks, Arsenal have been finding a way to win as the pressure mounts at the business end of the season.

From BBC • May 5, 2026

It's the business end of the Champions League, where heroes are made and Ballon d'Or winners forged.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

For Denver, the match-up comes after a bye week, and offers another chance to prove that one of this season's surprise packages can be the real deal at the business end of the campaign.

From Barron's • Jan. 16, 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

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