- An expression of dismissal, rejection, or defiance towards a suggestion, idea, situation, or obligation.
- It means I reject that, I'm not doing that, or That's a bad idea/situation and I won't accept it.
- Often implies frustration or annoyance with the thing being rejected.
Explanation
Origin
- Likely related to the vulgarism Fuck that, using screw as a less offensive substitute.
- Screw itself has vulgar connotations related to sexual intercourse (to screw), but in this phrase, it primarily functions as a term of dismissal or contempt.
- Emerged as a common expression in the mid-to-late 20th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Hard pass. (Clear rejection)
- Ain't nobody got time for that. (Meme-popularized expression of dismissal for something tedious/annoying)
- Yeah, nah. (Aus/NZ slang for gentle but firm refusal)
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- Fuck that shit. (Even stronger)
Milder:
- I'd rather not.
- That doesn't work for me.
- I don't think so.
- Pass.
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal. Contains mild profanity (screw), making it inappropriate for formal or professional settings.
- Acceptable among friends or peers in casual conversation.
- Expresses strong negative sentiment, so use with awareness of potential impact.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Non-native speakers might confuse it with the literal meaning of screw (fasten with a screw) or its more vulgar sexual meaning. Context is key.
- While less offensive than Fuck that, it's still informal and expresses strong negative feeling.
Examples
- Work this weekend? Screw that, I'm going to the beach.
- He wants me to apologize? Screw that, he was the one who was rude!
- The instructions say to wait 24 hours, but screw that, I'm hungry now.
Dialogue
Person A: The boss expects us to stay late tonight to finish the inventory.
Person B: Screw that! I've got plans. I'm leaving at 5 sharp.
Person A: I wish I could, but I really need this job.
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: My alarm is set for 6 AM tomorrow. Screw that, hitting snooze indefinitely. #sleep #weekendvibes
- Comment: Friend: 'You should try this weird food challenge!' Me: Screw that lol.
- Forum post: The 'easy' fix requires taking the whole thing apart? Screw that, I'll just buy a new one.
Response Patterns
- Agreement: Yeah, screw that! or Good for you.
- Caution/Disagreement: Are you sure? You might get in trouble. or Well, we kind of have to...
- Asking for reasons: Why? What's wrong with it?
- Surprise: Whoa, okay then.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After hearing it:
- Ask about the alternative plan (So what are you going to do instead?).
- Express agreement or disagreement with the rejection.
- Warn about potential consequences.
After saying it:
- State the alternative action or plan.
- Justify the reason for rejecting the original idea/obligation.
- Proceed with the defiant action.
Conversation Starter
- No. It's a reaction to a preceding statement, suggestion, or situation.
Intonation
- Strong emphasis on Screw.
- Tone is dismissive, defiant, annoyed, or sometimes resigned but rejecting. SCREW that.
Generation Differences
- Commonly used and understood across most adult generations. Doesn't feel particularly dated or overly modern.
Regional Variations
- Common in American English.
- Also used in other English-speaking regions. The UK variant Sod that is very common there.