screw about
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To waste time doing nothing useful, or to treat someone badly or unfairly.
Meanings
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."
Grammar: inseparable
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."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Primarily British English. Considered mildly vulgar. Can mean wasting time, behaving carelessly, or being sexually unfaithful. Use with care in formal or professional contexts.
Commonly used with
time people system partner
Forms
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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Synonyms
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