How Do You Spell BUM STEER?

Pronunciation: [bˈʌm stˈi͡ə] (IPA)

The expression "bum steer" is one that may be unfamiliar to many people. It refers to being misled or given bad advice. The spelling can be confusing, as it appears to be two words, but is actually a compound word. The "b" sound at the beginning is pronounced as in "book" or "bat", and the "u" sound is pronounced like "uh". The "m" sound is pronounced normally, followed by the "st" sound, similar to "stew", and finally the "r" sound like in "run". Together, it is pronounced "buhm-steer".

BUM STEER Meaning and Definition

1. The term "bum steer" is an idiom of American origin that is used to refer to a misleading or incorrect piece of advice, guidance, or information provided to someone, leading them to take a wrong or unfavorable course of action. This expression implies the notion of being misled or deceived deliberately, either due to incompetence or ill intention.

   A "bum steer" can also describe a situation where someone is given false or inaccurate information about a particular subject matter, resulting in confusion or misunderstanding. It often carries a negative connotation, indicating that the advice or information was not only inaccurate but also potentially harmful or disadvantageous.

   This phrase is derived from cowboy slang, where a "steer" refers to a young, uncastrated male bovine. In the context of cattle herding, a "bum steer" describes an intentionally deceptive or faulty steer that is directed towards a different path than desired by the herder. By extension, the term has come to represent any form of misleading guidance or advice.

   The expression "bum steer" is commonly used in casual conversations, formal discussions, and even in professional settings to describe instances where individuals have been given misleading or inaccurate information, causing them to make poor decisions or follow the wrong path. It serves as a cautionary term, warning individuals to be wary of the advice they receive and to question the validity of the information before making important choices.

Common Misspellings for BUM STEER

• bumsteer

Etymology of BUM STEER

The term "bum steer" is an American slang that originated in the early 20th century. It combines the words "bum", slang for a lazy or worthless person, and "steer", which refers to a young male bovine, typically a castrated one.

The origins of "bum steer" lie in cowboy culture and the American West. In those days, cattle ranchers relied on skillful cowboys to guide and manage herds of cattle during long drives, such as the famous cattle drives on trails like the Chisholm Trail. If a cowboy were to give false directions or incorrect advice about the location of water, grazing areas, or safe paths, it would cause confusion, delays, and hardships for the entire cattle drive. This deceitful act became known as giving a "bum steer". So, the phrase "bum steer" came to mean misleading or deceptive guidance.

Idioms with the word BUM STEER

• a bum steer The idiom "a bum steer" refers to misleading or incorrect information or advice that leads someone in the wrong direction or results in a bad outcome. It typically implies being deceived or given false guidance.
• bum steer A piece of false or misleading information; a deception or misleading guidance.

Plural form of BUM STEER is BUM STEERS