give a hoot
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb phrase (idiomatic): * To care at all; to be concerned or interested. This phrase is almost exclusively used in negative constructions ("don't give a hoot") or questions ("do you give a hoot?") to express a complete lack of care, concern, or interest in something. It is informal and emphatic.
Usage and Examples
This phrase is used to strongly state that one does not care about something. * Negative Form (Most Common): * I don't give a hoot about celebrity gossip. * He said he doesn't give a hoot what people think of his new car. * Interrogative Form: * Do you give a hoot about the outcome of the meeting?
Advanced Usage
- The phrase is inherently informal and emphatic. Using it can sound blunt or dismissive.
- It is frequently used for hyperbolic or humorous effect to exaggerate one's indifference.
- You can have the last cookie; I don't give a hoot.
Variants and Related Words
- Give a damn: A synonym with identical grammatical usage and slightly stronger/vulgar connotations.
- She doesn't give a damn about the rules.
- Give a toss (UK slang): A British English synonym with the same meaning and usage pattern.
- I don't give a toss about football.
Synonyms
- Care: (The neutral, standard verb. "Give a hoot" is an idiomatic substitute for "care" in negative contexts).
- Mind: (Often used in questions and negative statements. "Do you mind?" / "I don't mind.").
- Be concerned: (More formal).
Related Idioms
- Couldn't care less: Has the same essential meaning as "don't give a hoot," emphasizing total indifference.
- I couldn't care less who wins the award.
- Not give a fig: An older, less common idiom with the same meaning and usage.
- They don't give a fig for tradition.
Verb
- 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