The idiomatic phrase “hustle and bustle” is a phrase that you may hear or see used frequently in everyday conversation and writing. Here you will find the meaning of this phrase and the information available about its origin. You will also find examples of how to properly use this phrase in conversations/statements and learn some alternative ways to say the phrase while still conveying the same meaning.
Hustle And Bustle
Hustle And Bustle Meaning
The phrase “hustle and bustle” means a great amount of movement or work in an area that is typically quite noisy.
Origin of this idiom
The origin of the phrase “hustle and bustle” took its meaning as a phrase from two different words that were combined. The word hustle became an English word in 1684. It was derived from the Dutch word “hutselen” which meant to shake. The English changed the word to “hustle” and applied the definition to hurry or move along quickly in the year 1812. In 1840, the word became a part of American English also with the same meaning. The word “bustle” was derived in 1350 from the Middle English word “bersten” meaning to act with vigor. The two words were combined to form the idiomatic phrase we see today and the meaning of the phrase.
“Hustle And Bustle” Examples
Example Statements
A statement made by a person being interviewed at a shopping mall during Christmas time.
- “I love shopping at this time of year. I love that, despite all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, people are always happy and full of cheer.”
A statement made by a celebrity interviewing on the red carpet.
- “The hustle and bustle of Hollywood is an amazing thing. Sometimes though you just want to get away to a nice quiet place.”
Example Conversations
A conversation between a husband and wife.
- Husband: This week has been exhausting!
- Wife: Well stick with it. We only have one more week to go until we leave to go on our cruise.
- Husband: Oh I am sticking with it and counting down the days. I can’t wait to get away from all the hustle and bustle of work.
A conversation between two friends.
- Friend 1: What are your plans for the weekend?
- Friend 2: I think I am going to visit with my grandparents on their farm upstate.
- Friend 1: That sounds lovely! I am sure you will have a great time.
- Friend 2: Yes, I love going there from time to time. It is good for me to get away from the hustle and bustle of this big city.
Interesting examples:
- I love the hustle and bustle of the marketplace.
- We escaped from the hustle and bustle of the city for the weekend.
- The hustle and bustle of modern life occurs in the shadow of history.
- She enjoyed all the hustle and bustle of people and music.
- It seems that he enjoys the hustle and bustle of life in the big city.
- The railway station was a scene of hustle and bustle.
- The hustle and bustle of city life fatigues many people.
- Life was terribly hectic in the city, she thought, all hustle and bustle.
- I hate all the hustle and bustle of Saturday shopping.
- I was tired of the hustle and bustle of New York.
Other Ways to Say “Hustle And Bustle”
As is the case with all idiomatic phrases, there are many alternative ways to say “hustle and bustle.” Other things you can say instead include:
- Activity and noise
- Movement and sound
- Chaos and clamor
- Hectic
- Noise
What does “Hustle And Bustle” Mean? | Picture
Last Updated on March 19, 2020
I’m a lifetime city girl and We’ve just moved to a very quiet suburb. Oh how I miss the hustle and bustle of the big city!