given a hoot
Actually cared somewhat
To give a hoot is to care about something, almost always used in the negative: I don't give a hoot what they think.
The hoot is the owl's cry—something small and insignificant.
Variants include give two hoots and the euphemistic give a hoot and a holler.
The phrase is folksy and mild, suitable for contexts where stronger expressions like give a damn might seem inappropriate.
- compassionConcern for others' distress
- heartCirculatory system's pump
- emotional supportCompassionate help during distress
- attentivenessConcentrated awareness of surroundings
- pay attentionConcentrate on something
lend an ear · apathy · responsiveness · thoughtfulness · neglect · consideration · participation · disinterest · damn · couldn't care less · hug · mindfulness · reach out · nonchalance · sensitivity · aloofness · turn a blind eye · cold shoulder
given a hootshrugged off
Dismissed casually, unbothered
turned a blind eye · ignored · looked the other way · brushed aside · tuned out
give, given, gives, gave, giving, giver, givers, forgive, forgiven