What does the phrasal verb “screw around” mean?

What are the definitions of “screw around”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Waste time.

  He spent the afternoon SCREWING AROUD and got nothing done.

• 2. Be sexually promiscuous.

  He SCREWED AROUND a lot at university.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “screw around”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb screw around is to waste time or not be productive. It is often used to describe someone who is not focused on their tasks or responsibilities.

What are the different verb forms of “screw around”?

Root Verb	screw around
Third Person Singular Present	screws around
Present Participle	screwing around
Simple Past	screwed around
Past Participle	screwed around

Example

Stop screwing around and finish your homework.

Example

She always screws around when she should be studying.

Example

He is screwing around instead of helping with the project.

Example

Yesterday, they screwed around all day and didn't get any work done.

Example

He had screwed around so much that he failed the exam.

What kind of phrasal verb is “screw around”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“screw around” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

She screwed around instead of doing her chores.

Example

He screwed around all day and didn't finish his work.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“screw around” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

She screwed around instead of doing her chores.

Example

He screwed around all day and didn't finish his work.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “screw around”?

Screw around with something

To play with or tamper with something, often without proper knowledge or care.

Example

Don't screw around with the electrical wires; you might get shocked.

Screw around with someone

To deceive or manipulate someone, often for personal gain.

Example

He screwed around with her feelings and broke her heart.

Good things to know

Does “screw around” have an informal or formal tone?

Screw around is considered informal and is not appropriate for formal settings or professional communication. It is more suitable for casual conversations among friends or in relaxed environments.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “screw around”?

Synonyms

• procrastinate
• dawdle
• lollygag
• dillydally
• waste time
• fool around
• mess around

Antonyms

• focus
• concentrate
• work hard
• be productive
• be diligent
• be committed