give a damn

Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition

Verb (idiomatic, informal): To care at all; to have any concern or interest. This phrase is almost exclusively used in negative constructions to express a complete lack of care or concern.

Usage

This phrase is used to emphatically state that one does not care about something or someone. It is considered informal and can be impolite or vulgar in some contexts. It is typically structured as "not give a damn."

Examples
  • He doesn't give a damn about the rules. (He has no concern for the rules.)
  • I don't give a damn what they think. (I am completely uninterested in their opinion.)
  • She said she didn't give a damn about the consequences. (She expressed no concern for the potential outcomes.)
Advanced Usage
  • "Couldn't give a damn": An even stronger variant emphasizing an absolute inability to care.
    • After the argument, I couldn't give a damn if I ever saw him again.
  • "Give a damn about": The object of the lack of care is often introduced by the preposition "about."
    • They don't give a damn about the environment.
Variants and Related Words
  • Give a hoot (verb, informal): A milder, less offensive synonym.
    • I don't give a hoot about fashion trends.
  • Give a shit (verb, vulgar, informal): A more vulgar synonym with identical meaning and usage.
    • He doesn't give a shit about anyone but himself.
Synonyms
  • Care
  • Mind
  • Be concerned
Related Phrases
  • Not care less: To have no interest or concern.
    • I couldn't care less about who wins.
  • Not give a toss (verb, chiefly British, informal): To not care at all.
    • She doesn't give a toss what you say.
Verb
  1. show no concern or interest; always used in the negative
    • I don't give a hoot
    • She doesn't give a damn about her job