B1verbemotionsrelationships
US/ˈbɑː.ðər/
UK/ˈbɒð.ə/
to annoy or worry someone; also to make the effort to do something
In context
Sorry to bother you, but is this seat free?
Don't bother cooking tonight, let's just order something in.
It really bothers me when people don't reply to messages.
Words that go with bother
verb + noun
- sorry to bother youSorry to bother you, but can I ask a quick question?
verb + adverb
- don't botherDon't bother calling, I'll be asleep.
- can't be botheredI can't be bothered to go out tonight.
verb + preposition
- bother aboutDon't bother about the dishes, I'll do them.
adverb + verb
- really botherThe noise doesn't really bother me.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I don't want to bother to you.Correct: I don't want to bother you.