What does “Up yours!” mean?
The phrase "Up yours!" is an offensive insult typically used to express anger, disdain, or defiance towards someone. It is a form of vulgar retort that conveys strong contempt or outright rejection.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
I can't believe he told me to go up yours! What a jerk.
Example
She flipped me off and said up yours! I was so angry.
Example
He shouted up yours! at the driver who cut him off.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Expressing anger or frustration towards someone
I can't believe he told me to go up yours! What a jerk.
She flipped me off and said up yours! I was so angry.
- 2Reacting to a disrespectful or offensive action
He shouted up yours! at the driver who cut him off.
When she heard the rude comment, she responded with up yours!
- 3Using the phrase as a strong insult
After the argument, he yelled up yours! and stormed out of the room.
When he found out about the betrayal, he confronted the person and said up yours!
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "up yours!" is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century as a crude and offensive way to express anger, contempt, or defiance towards someone. It is commonly used in English-speaking countries.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "up yours!" is typically used as a standalone insult to express strong disdain or anger towards someone. It is often accompanied by a rude hand gesture, where the middle finger is raised.
Is the phrase offensive?
"Up yours!" is a vulgar and offensive phrase used as an insult.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "up yours!" is highly offensive and vulgar. It is not suitable for polite or formal conversations. It is typically used by individuals who want to express strong anger or contempt towards someone.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "up yours!" is not specific to any particular accent or region. It is used in English-speaking countries and has become a part of the global vernacular, although its usage may vary in different cultural contexts.
