Idiom
give a hoot
To care about something, often used in negative contexts.
Meanings
To care about something; to be concerned or bothered. Most frequently used in negative constructions to express indifference or a complete lack of concern.
Definition
This idiom means to care or be concerned about something, but it is almost always used with a negative word like "don't" or "doesn't." It emphasizes a complete lack of interest, importance, or concern. When someone "doesn't give a hoot" about something, they are utterly indifferent to it.
Examples
- The manager didn't give a hoot about the employees' complaints regarding the new policy.
- Honestly, I don't give a hoot what movie we watch tonight; you can choose.
- She acts like she doesn't give a hoot, but I know deep down she really cares.
- My brother never gives a hoot if his room is messy or clean, which always annoys our mom.
- Even though the critics panned the show, the audience clearly didn't give a hoot and loved it.
Common mistake
A common mistake is to use "give a hoot" in a positive sense, as it is almost exclusively used in negative constructions to express a lack of concern.
More verb phrases
- step on someone's toes To avoid offending or interfering with someone's responsibilities or authority.
- call it a day To decide to stop working or doing an activity for the remainder of the day.
- keep an eye on To watch someone or something continuously and carefully.
- read between the lines To understand the implicit meaning or unspoken message in what someone says or writes.
- make ends meet To earn just enough money to cover one's basic expenses.