C1verb1K

Screw

UK /["/skruː/","/skruːz/","/skruːd/","/ˈskruːɪŋ/"]/US /["/skruː/","/skruːz/","/skruːd/","/ˈskruːɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to fasten one thing to another or make something tight with a screw or screws

In simple words: A metal fastener with a pointed end and a spiral thread used to hold things together.

Examples

  • Make sure to screw the lid tightly to prevent any leaks.
  • You need to screw the bolts securely when assembling the furniture.
  • He tried to screw the pieces of wood together to build the shelf.
  • Don’t screw the screw in too far or you might damage the surface.
  • She said he really screwed up by forgetting the appointment.
  • If you screw up this task, it will be hard to fix the mistake.

Usage notes

Use 'screw' when talking about fastening objects. It's suitable for casual and technical contexts, but avoid it in formal writing about other subjects.

Grammar pattern

screw + object

Memory hint

Imagine using a tool to 'screw' something tightly together, like fastening a lid.

Collocations

  • firmly
  • tightly
  • down
  • into
  • on
  • onto
  • screw something in place
  • screw something into position
  • firmly
  • tightly
  • down
  • into
  • on
  • onto
  • screw something in place
  • screw something into position

Synonyms

  • fastener
  • bolt
  • nail
  • peg
  • pin

Antonyms

  • unscrew
  • tighten

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'screw up', which means to make a mistake.
  • Used without an object, e.g. 'I will screw.' instead of 'I will screw the lid on.'
  • Mispronounced, often as 'screw' instead of the correct 'skroo'.