gave a shit

USAGE SUMMARY

'gave a shit' is not correct and not suitable for use in formal written English.
This expression is considered too informal and should not be used in any contexts where a more formal register of English is required. In informal contexts, such as in spoken English or casual writing, 'gave a shit' may be appropriate. For example, "I don't think Steve gave a shit about what I said" would be acceptable in informal contexts.

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

But no one gave a shit.

Independent

When Cowell left, nobody gave a shit.

The Guardian - Music

"Nobody gave a shit," David says.

The New Yorker

"And nobody gave a shit.

The New Yorker

He said nobody gave a shit.

The Guardian

Nobody gave a shit about anybody.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Why give a shit?

The New Yorker

Stop giving a shit.

The New Yorker

"Every woman gives a shit".

The New Yorker

Does anyone give a shit?

The New Yorker

"But you give a shit," I said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In professional or academic writing, avoid using the phrase "gave a shit". Opt for more formal and neutral alternatives like "showed concern" or "expressed interest".

Common error

Using the phrase "gave a shit" in formal communication can damage your credibility. Always consider your audience and the context of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gave a shit" functions as a vulgar idiom expressing whether someone cared or showed interest in something. As Ludwig AI reports, its usage is generally considered incorrect for formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "gave a shit" is a common, yet highly informal and vulgar idiom used to express concern or interest. While frequently found in news and media sources adopting a casual tone, Ludwig AI advises against its use in formal writing. More appropriate alternatives, depending on the context, include "cared", "showed concern", or "expressed interest". Therefore, while the phrase is easily understood, it should be used with caution and awareness of the audience and setting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cared

A more neutral and widely acceptable term for expressing concern or interest.

showed concern

Indicates a demonstration of worry or interest, often in a more formal setting.

expressed interest

Highlights the act of voicing or displaying curiosity or attention.

took an interest

Implies a deliberate choice to engage with or pay attention to something.

was invested

Suggests a deeper level of emotional or personal involvement.

was concerned

Focuses specifically on feelings of worry or unease.

paid attention

Highlights the act of focusing one's mental resources on something.

was bothered

Indicates a state of being disturbed or annoyed, implying a negative concern.

felt strongly

Expresses the presence of intense emotions or convictions.

was passionate

Denotes a fervent or enthusiastic involvement.

FAQs

What does "gave a shit" mean?

The phrase "gave a shit" is a vulgar idiom that means someone cared, was concerned, or showed interest in something. It's considered highly informal and should be avoided in professional or academic settings.

What can I say instead of "gave a shit"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like /s/cared, /s/showed+concern, /s/expressed+interest, or /s/was+concerned. Choose the phrase that best fits the situation and maintains an appropriate tone.

Is it ever okay to use the phrase "gave a shit"?

The phrase "gave a shit" is generally acceptable only in very informal settings, such as casual conversations with close friends or in creative writing where vulgar language is used intentionally for effect. Avoid it in professional emails, academic papers, or public speaking.

What is the difference between "gave a shit" and "cared"?

"Gave a shit" is a vulgar and informal way of saying someone cared. While both phrases express concern or interest, "cared" is a neutral and widely acceptable alternative suitable for almost any context, while "gave a shit" is not.