send (one) about (one's) business

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send (one) about (one's) business

To dismiss one or send one away, as from employment or from someone's presence, especially rudely or abruptly. When it became clear he was only interested in making a profit for himself, we sent him about his business. I always send door-to-door salesmen about their business whenever they catch me at home.

send (one) about one's business

to send someone away, usually in an unfriendly way. Is that annoying man on the telephone again? Please send him about his business. Ann, I can't clean up the house with you hanging around. I'm going to have to send you about your business.

send someone about his or her business

Also, send someone packing. Dismiss someone abruptly, as in They always ring the bell at suppertime, asking for signatures, but I send them about their business , or The owner caught Jack taking small items from the store and sent him packing. The first term, which in effect tells people to tend to their own affairs, was first recorded in 1768; the variant, alluding to telling people to pack their bags and leave, was first recorded in 1594. Also see send away.