bum

a bum rap (American, informal)

blame or punishment that is not fair. Teachers are getting a bum rap from people who say they don't work hard enough. She was sent up to the penitentiary on a bum rap.

See also: rap

a bum steer (American & Australian, informal)

information that is not correct or not helpful. The bus driver gave us a bum steer and we ended up miles from where we wanted to go. Her suggestion to eat at that little Italian restaurant was a bum steer. (= a bad suggestion)

See also: steer

the bum's rush (American, informal)

the action of getting rid of someone who is not wanted. The photographer was given the bum's rush by two policemen guarding the office. Why do I feel I'm getting the bum's rush? Where are you off to?

See also: rush

bums on seats (British & Australian, informal, American, informal)

if a public performance or a sports event puts bums on seats, many people pay to go and see it. This production needs a big name to put bums on seats.

See also: seat