Definition: The phrase "screw up" is a verb that means to make a mistake or to do something incorrectly. It can also refer to ruining or messing up a situation.
Making a Mistake:
Ruining Something:
Intensifying Emotions:
In more advanced contexts, "screw up" can be used to describe complex situations or emotional states: - "After the argument, my thoughts were completely screwed up, and I couldn't focus on anything."
Physical Action: To twist or deform something (less common in this context).
Emotional State: Refers to someone feeling confused or emotionally disturbed.
"Screw the pooch": An idiomatic expression meaning to make a big mistake.
"Screw around": To waste time or behave in a silly way instead of being serious.
"Screw up" is a versatile and informal expression used to indicate making a mistake or ruining something. It's important to use it in appropriate situations, especially in casual conversations.