Bust somebody's chops Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Playful Teasing Used among friends to humorously irritate or mock each other. When I got the answer wrong, my buddy started busting my chops. Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal It doesn't involve actual hitting; it's a metaphorical expression. No worries, she's just busting my chops, not being mean. Pro Tip 3/3Friendly Affection Can imply closeness when used in a joking way. Only my brother can get away with busting my chops like that.