A dirty move

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A dirty move" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action that is considered unethical, unfair, or deceitful in a particular context, often in competitive situations. Example: "I can't believe he pulled a dirty move like that during the game; it was completely against the spirit of fair play."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Cut off: After several moves, the heel's cutting your shine with a low blow, eye poke or any dirty move.

WikiHow

"It was a pretty dirty move," said Power in a post-race interview.

The New York Times

Clive was observed busting a Dirty Harry move when he thought we weren't looking, and Randy was often found cradling his rifle to his chest, a gruesome sneer on his face, as if he were about to take an East Hampton bistro hostage.

The New Yorker

In the event of a dirty bomb, move away from the location of the blast as quickly as possible to limit exposure to radiation.

WikiHow

Lest you think dirty moves are a new development in American politics, let's journey back to the 19th century.

The Guardian

If a heel, you would use dirty moves, like low blow, eye rake, closed fist punch etc. Remember,before you follow these steps you need a wrestler name!

WikiHow

There a set of rules enforced by referee watching out for dirty moves and making sure the breaks are clean.

Vice

But Ford's advisers - like Webb's aides - have speculated that the Republicans' dirty moves have gone so far that they have sparked a backlash benefiting Democrats.

The Guardian - Opinion

He has also started doing some rather dirty moves, notably the crotch-grab, which will endure, with striking embellishments, throughout his career.

The New Yorker

The broadcast date of the subsequent episode, "Cartman's Mom Is Still a Dirty Slut", was moved up in response to the complaints.

Wikipedia

The struggle to fit those fragments into a coherent life provides the narrative arc of "Love Is a Dirty Word," his moving and ultimately inspiring new solo memory play at VS. Theatre.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "A dirty move" when you want to emphasize the unethical or unfair nature of an action, particularly in competitive contexts like sports, politics, or business. It conveys a strong sense of disapproval and can add emotional weight to your writing.

Common error

While "A dirty move" is widely understood, it can sound too informal or colloquial in highly formal or professional settings. Opt for alternatives like "unethical practice" or "underhanded tactic" to maintain a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "A dirty move" functions as a noun phrase typically used as a subject or object within a sentence. It describes a specific action characterized by unfairness or unethical behavior. The phrase evokes a strong negative connotation, indicating disapproval of the action.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "A dirty move" is an expression used to describe an action deemed unethical or unfair, often within competitive scenarios. While grammatically correct, its usage may be more appropriate for informal contexts. Ludwig AI highlights its function as a noun phrase that conveys strong negative judgment. For formal settings, alternatives like "unethical conduct" might be more suitable. Remember to consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing when choosing to use this phrase. Despite being correct, there are not enough examples to ensure its frequency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A foul play

Emphasizes a violation of rules or ethical principles, often in sports or games. Implies unfairness and a breach of accepted standards.

An underhanded tactic

Highlights the deceitful and secretive nature of the action. Suggests a hidden or dishonest method.

A sneaky maneuver

Focuses on the cleverness and stealth involved in the action. Conveys a sense of cunning and deception.

A devious act

Stresses the malicious and harmful intent behind the action. Suggests a calculated plan to cause harm or disadvantage.

A Machiavellian scheme

Implies a ruthless and manipulative strategy, prioritizing success above moral considerations.

A reprehensible deed

Emphasizes the morally objectionable nature of the action. Suggests a strong sense of disapproval and condemnation.

An unscrupulous practice

Highlights the lack of ethical principles guiding the action. Conveys a sense of disregard for fairness and honesty.

A shady deal

Suggests a lack of transparency and potential illegality in the action. Implies hidden motives and questionable practices.

A backhanded trick

Implies a deceptive or insincere action, often disguised as something else. Highlights the indirect and manipulative nature of the act.

An unfair advantage

Focuses on the unjust benefit gained through the action. Suggests a disruption of equal opportunities and fair competition.

FAQs

What does "A dirty move" mean?

The phrase "A dirty move" refers to an action that is considered unethical, unfair, or deceitful, often in a competitive situation. It implies a violation of accepted standards of conduct.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "A dirty move"?

It is appropriate to use the phrase "A dirty move" when describing actions that are clearly against the rules or generally accepted norms of fairness, especially in contexts like sports, politics, or business negotiations.

What are some alternatives to "A dirty move"?

Some alternatives to "A dirty move" include "foul play", "underhanded tactic", "devious act", or "unscrupulous practice", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "A dirty move" considered formal or informal language?

"A dirty move" is generally considered informal language. In more formal contexts, it's better to use phrases like "unethical behavior" or "breach of ethics".