Cool MateUntidy
UK //ʌnˈtaɪ.di//US //ʌnˈtaɪ.di//
Definition
Not neat or organized; messy in appearance.
In simple words: Not clean or organized; messy.
Examples
- Her desk is always so untidy with papers everywhere.
- The children's room looked untidy after playing all day.
- He feels embarrassed by his untidy appearance during the meeting.
- They often complain about the untidy state of the kitchen.
- An untidy garden can make a house look neglected.
Usage notes
Use 'untidy' to describe physical spaces or personal appearance that are disorganized. It's appropriate in both casual and formal settings but may seem mild or polite.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Think of 'un' and 'tidy'—it’s not tidy!
Collocations
- untidy room
- untidy appearance
- untidy desk
Synonyms
- messy
- disorganized
- chaotic
- slapdash
- unsightly
Antonyms
- tidy
- organized
- neat
Common mistakes
- Confusing 'untidy' with 'dirty'; 'untidy' focuses on organization, while 'dirty' focuses on cleanliness.
- Using 'untidy' when referring to behavior, instead of 'messy' or other terms.
- Omitting the noun it describes, leading to unclear meaning.