A1adjective1K

Dirty

UK /["/ˈdɜːti/"]/US /["/ˈdɜːrti/"]/

Definition

not clean

In simple words: Not clean; covered in dirt or mess.

Examples

  • The dirty shirt needs to be washed.
  • He stepped into a muddy puddle and got his shoes dirty.
  • After playing outside, the kids were all dirty and had to take a bath.
  • She was offended by his dirty joke.
  • The dirty dishes piled up in the sink.

Usage notes

Typically used to describe something needing cleaning. Avoid in formal writing; can be used informally to describe someone's actions or behavior negatively.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'dirt' in the word 'dirty'; picture mud on your shoes.

Collocations

  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very

Synonyms

  • filthy
  • squalid
  • grimy
  • messy
  • soiled

Antonyms

  • clean
  • pure
  • neat

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'dainty', which means delicate or nice.
  • Using 'dirty' as a noun instead of an adjective.
  • Overusing in a context where 'messy' or 'unclean' might be more appropriate.