# screwed

/ˈskɹud/ (US) · /skɹˈuːd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/screwed
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. in big trouble

adjective · CEFR B2 · Informal · Slang

in a very difficult situation where it seems impossible to succeed or escape.

For teachers: beset by unfortunate circumstances that appear insurmountable; in imminent danger of failure or punishment.

- If I don't finish this report by midnight, I'm totally screwed.
- The company realized they were screwed once the lead investor pulled out just days before the payroll was due.

Usage: Often used with 'totally' or 'completely' for emphasis.

Teaching tip: While common, this can be considered mildly vulgar by some speakers; students should avoid it in professional or formal writing.

### 2. broken or ruined

adjective · CEFR B2 · Informal · Slang

damaged so badly that it no longer works.

For teachers: rendered inoperable or ruined through damage or mismanagement.

- My laptop screen is screwed after I dropped it on the stairs.
- The engine is completely screwed, and the mechanic says it will cost more to fix than the car is worth.

Usage: Typically used as a predicative adjective after the verb 'to be'.

## Examples

- If I don't finish this report by morning, I'm screwed.
- The team realized they were screwed when their star player was injured in the first five minutes of the game.
- While the company attempted to project confidence during the press conference, internal emails revealed the board knew they were screwed as soon as the major merger fell through.

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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.