Why do people say "I could care less" when it's actually "I couldn't care less"?

Question

Think about it. If you could care less, that means you care some. The original ("couldn't care less") already drips sarcasm, so it’s pointless to argue that the newer version is “ironic.” People who misuse this phrase are just being careless.

I hate it when someone says something, for example, "I got an A on my exam" and the person who responds and doesn't care about them getting an A says "I could care less". That would mean that they DO care, but they can care less than they already do. But if they had said "I couldn't care less" then that means that it's impossible for them to care less since they don't care at all.

I have a feeling some of the answers are going to be "I could care less" or "I couldn't care less".

Rolando, if you COULDN'T care less about my question, why did you answer?

Answer 1

I was honestly wondering that just this morning. If you COULD care less that actually means that you care, you're right. Some people are just confused by the subtleties of the language I suppose.

Answer 2

Hey, I was just going to bring up the same question when I found yours. I've actually gotten into arguments with people about this before. It is most definitely "couldn't care less." "Could care less" makes no sense!

Answer 3

GOOD FOR YOU!

It's about time somebody brought that everyone's attention.

Answer 4

I could care less about your question because I know that you know what im talking about so why does it matter.

Answer 5

Wow are you psychic, here they come now!

Answer 6

You're absolutely right.

Answer 7

true

Answer 8

either way, you don't care. lets leave it at that.