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screw with

B2 informal inseparable transitive
In simple words

To mess around with something in a way that causes problems, or to deliberately confuse or upset someone.

Meanings

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."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic informal

To deliberately confuse, manipulate, or upset someone mentally or emotionally.

"Stop screwing with my head — just tell me the truth."

Grammar: 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."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

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.

Commonly used with

mind head system evidence settings people

Forms

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

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Synonyms

mess with tamper with interfere with toy with play with meddle with

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