1 B2 idiomatic informal
To waste time or behave in an irresponsible, pointless way.
"Stop screwing about and finish the report — the deadline is in an hour."
inseparable
screw about
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
To waste time, behave irresponsibly, or treat someone in an inconsiderate manner. (British English variant of 'screw around'.)
In plain English
To waste time doing nothing useful, or to treat someone badly or unfairly.
What does "screw about" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To treat someone inconsiderately or mess them around.
"They've been screwing me about for weeks with no clear answer about the contract."
inseparable
Usage tip
Primarily British English. Considered mildly vulgar. Can mean wasting time, behaving carelessly, or being sexually unfaithful. Use with care in formal or professional contexts.
Words that pair with "screw about"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
time people system partner
How to conjugate "screw about"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
screw about
I/you/we/they
3rd person
screws about
he/she/it
Past simple
screwed about
yesterday
Past participle
screwed about
have + pp
-ing form
screwing about
continuous
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Other ways to say "screw about"
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