busybody as an intransitive verb

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ostap77

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I just looked the word busybody up in the SODE. It says busybody can be used as an intransitive verb. How can I use it context?
 

MikeNewYork

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I have never seen "busybody" used as anything other than a noun.
 

Raymott

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I just looked the word busybody up in the SODE. It says busybody can be used as an intransitive verb. How can I use it context?
"My next-door neighbour is always busybodying around."
I've never heard it either, but there's no problem verbing nouns if you're into that sort of thing.
 

Tdol

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Most dictionaries only give it as a noun and a search for busybodied mostly brings up dictionaries in the answers. I can't remember coming across it.
 

MikeNewYork

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It is easier and more correct to say "My neighbor is a busybody".
 

Raymott

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It is easier and more correct to say "My neighbor is a busybody".
I have that feeling about most new verbed nouns that come off the presses.
 

MikeNewYork

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As well you should. ;-)
 

5jj

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emsr2d2

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I think "to busybody" is up there with using "nosy/nosey" as a verb or a noun.

I'm just nosying/noseying around.
I'm going to have a nosy/nosey around.

Most dictionaries give it is an adjective.
 
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