1 B2 idiomatic informal
To tamper with or interfere with something in a way that may damage or disrupt it.
"Someone had been screwing with the server settings and the whole system crashed."
inseparable
screw with
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To interfere with, tamper with, or deliberately confuse or harm someone or something.
In plain English
To mess around with something in a way that causes problems, or to deliberately confuse or upset someone.
What does "screw with" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To deliberately confuse, manipulate, or upset someone mentally or emotionally.
"Stop screwing with my head — just tell me the truth."
inseparable
3 B2 idiomatic informal
To challenge, provoke, or take on someone in a confrontational way (often used as a warning).
"You really don't want to screw with him — he has friends in powerful places."
inseparable
Usage tip
Informal and slightly vulgar. Can refer to tampering with equipment or systems, or deliberately trying to confuse, manipulate, or upset a person. 'Don't screw with me' is a strong warning to stop attempting to deceive or threaten. Common in American English.
Words that pair with "screw with"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
mind head system evidence settings people
How to conjugate "screw with"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
screw with
I/you/we/they
3rd person
screws with
he/she/it
Past simple
screwed with
yesterday
Past participle
screwed with
have + pp
-ing form
screwing with
continuous
Hear "screw with" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "screw with" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "screw with"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.