up yours
What does up yours mean? up yours is a English strong that translates to “fuck you / screw you” in English.
Literal Translation
up your (rectum)
Meaning & Usage
"fuck you / screw you"
A contemptuous dismissal that leaves the anatomical destination to the imagination — though everyone knows what's being implied. Often accompanied by a V-sign (UK) or middle finger (US). It's aggressive but has a retro quality that makes it sound less threatening than 'fuck you.'
Examples in the Wild
As a defiant gesture and phrase combined, usually in response to someone trying to assert authority over you unfairly.
When to Use It
Context
- Informal settings where profanity is accepted
- Expressing strong frustration or emphasis
- As a spontaneous exclamation
- Direct confrontation (use with caution)
Avoid
- Professional or formal settings
- Around elders or authority figures
- Job interviews, meetings, or customer-facing situations
Cultural Context
The unfinished sentence is part of its charm and rudeness — 'up yours' deliberately leaves 'arse/ass' unsaid, which somehow makes it more insulting than completing it would. It peaked in the 1970s-80s but remains in active use. The British V-sign (two fingers, palm inward) is the traditional accompanying gesture.
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fuck
“fuck”
The most versatile English swear word. Can express anger, pain, surprise, or joy. Can function as a noun, verb, adjective, adverb, or interjection.
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“dick / penis”
A vulgar term for the penis that also functions as a mild insult. 'You cock' is weaker than 'you dick' — it sounds almost old-fashioned. The word's dual meaning with roosters creates endless accidental humor in rural contexts.
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Vulgar slang for ejaculatory fluid.
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Deceitful, foolish, or suspicious behavior; absolute nonsense.
son of a bitch
“son of a bitch”
One of the oldest compound insults in English, dating back to at least the 14th century. It can express genuine fury at a person or serve as an exclamation of surprise — 'son of a bitch, it actually worked!' The target doesn't have to be male; it's applied to situations, objects, and bad luck just as often as people.
dick
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An insult for someone acting foolishly, meanly, or inconsiderately. Also a vulgar term for the penis.
cockwomble
“foolish person / idiot”
A person, usually male, prone to making staggeringly stupid decisions or statements.