bother*/*/

[ˈbɒðə] verb I

1) if you do not bother to do something, you do not do it because it is not sensible or because you feel lazy

It was such a stupid question, I didn't even bother to reply.[/ex]

Don't bother inviting Janet.[/ex]

Don't bother about driving me home, I'll walk.[/ex]

2) [T] to annoy someone by interrupting them

I hope the children aren't bothering you.[/ex]

3) [T] to make someone feel worried, frightened, or upset

There was something about him that really bothered her.[/ex]

If he keeps bothering you, you should call the police.[/ex]

Does it bother you that people think you're older than him?[/ex]

4) [T] to cause someone pain

His knee was bothering him.[/ex]

•

I can't be bothered — British informalused for saying that you will not do something because you feel lazy[/ex]

[i]I said I'd go out with them tonight, but I can't be bothered.[/ex]

She couldn't even be bothered to say hello.[/ex]

I'm not bothered — spoken used for saying that something is not important to you[/ex]

I'm not bothered whether we go out or stay in.[/ex]

sorry to bother you — spoken used for politely asking someone to do something for you[/ex]

Sorry to bother you, but would you move your bag?[/ex]

II

noun [U]

bother [ˈbɒðə]

trouble or difficulty that is annoying but not very serious