# fuck with

CEFR C1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fuck-with
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to annoy or provoke someone on purpose, or to mess with something you should not touch.

For teachers: to provoke, harass, or interfere with a person or object. The verb is transitive and requires an object, typically denoting the target of the provocation or meddling.

## Examples

- Don't fuck with me today because I am very tired.
- He told his brother not to fuck with his computer while he was away at work.
- The street-smart informant knew better than to fuck with the undercover agents, recognizing the immediate danger of compromising their delicate operation.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I like to fuck with my friends on weekends." but "I like to hang out with my friends on weekends." — While this can mean 'associate with' in some dialects, it is usually understood as 'annoy' or 'harass' by most speakers.

## Usage notes

- This phrase is extremely vulgar and should be avoided in all formal or professional situations.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'mess with' which carries the same meaning but is much safer for learners to use in casual conversation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.