bup bup bup

English

Alternative forms

up bup bup, eh eh eh

Etymology

(This etymology is missing or incomplete. Please add to it, or discuss it at the Etymology scriptorium. Particularly: “From "but"?”)

Pronunciation

IPA^(key): /bʌp̚bʌp̚bʌp̚/

Interjection

bup bup bup

An exclamation conveying a meaning equivalent to "wait"!
Bup bup bup! Don't go just yet. You forgot something.
- 2013 October 8, Gil Ozeri, “M.E. Time” (12:09 from the start), in Brooklyn Nine-Nine‎^[1], season 1, episode 4, spoken by Jake Peralta (Andy Samberg):
  “Boyle, where's my paperwork on that DOA?” “Still waiting on the autopsy report. Supposed to come in first thing this morning, but so far, nothing.” “This is unacceptable. I'll call the M.E. and find out what happened.” “Eh, bup-bup-bup-bup-bah. That's not necessary, sir. For the record, I think it's natural causes anyway, but I'm also the secondary on this case. It's my responsibility, so I will head on down there and pick up the report.” “Good. But don't ever bup-bup-bup-bup me again.” “Right, I don't know--” “Bup-bup-bup-bup... Bup-bup-bup. Just go.” “Yep, I am going to regret teaching him that one.”
- 2023 October 26, Mike McMahan, “The Inner Fight” (10:28 from the start), in Star Trek: Lower Decks‎^[2], season 4, episode 9, spoken by Bouncer (Paul Scheer):
  “Mudds is a notorious dive for all sorts of unsavory rogues. I aced my Hoodlums and Racketeers seminar at the Academy. Let me do the talking.” “Bup, bup, bup, bup. Can I help you?” “Don't worry about it. Me and my gang are here for a drink and some trouble.” “Yeah, uh-huh. Do you have a reservation?” “Oh. Uh, well, we don't... We're just a-a classic roving gang.” “Look, I know you're Starfleet. You're in full uniform. You can't just walk in because you think you're better than everyone.” “Oh, no, I don't think that. Can you just put us on the list?” “Sure, but it's a two-hour wait.” “Seems pretty empty.” (squeaks) “We don't have two hours.” “Well, you could go across the street to Zorkys, but it's got way worse drinks. Plus the black market intel's less reliable.” “Captain, we need a solid lead.”

Usage notes

Generally used by those in a position of authority over the intended listener, such as a parent to a child, and may be perceived as patronizing or disrespectful in other contexts.
The number of syllables often varies.

Translations

warning expression

Finnish: äp-päp