Bossily: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is acting in a way that shows they want to control others, usually in an annoying or overbearing manner. Often implies a negative tone.

• She told everyone what to do bossily, without considering their feelings

Appropriate in situations where someone is speaking or acting with authority and confidence, but not necessarily in a negative way.

• The teacher spoke authoritatively on the subject, capturing the students' attention

Appropriate when describing someone who tries to assert their will over others in an aggressive and often coercive manner. This usually has a negative connotation.

• She spoke so domineeringly during the meeting that nobody else dared to voice their opinions

Used in contexts where someone is behaving in an extremely dominating and oppressive manner, often with a negative connotation. This implies the person is acting like a dictator.

• He ran the office dictatorially, leaving no room for anyone else's ideas