can't be bothered

British and Australian English INFORMAL
This page is about the conversational phrase can't be bothered

Meaning

You can say this if you don't want to do something because you're feeling tired or lazy.

For example

  • "Hey! Let's go dancing!"
    "I can't be bothered, Katie. Let's just watch T.V."

  • "Isn't Danny going to do the dishes?"
    "He can't be bothered. He said he'd do them in the morning."

Variety

This is typically used in British and Australian English but may be used in other varieties of English too.

Quick Quiz

You should never say "I can't be bothered" when asked to do something by

a. your partner

b. your friends

c. your boss
a) your partner b) your friends c) your boss

Contributor: Matt Errey