dirty thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dirty thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is unclean or to refer to something that is morally questionable or inappropriate. Example: "He found a dirty thing in the corner of the room that made him question the cleanliness of the entire house."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

You dirty thing, you dirty thing, you.

The New Yorker

"Dirty, dirty thing," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

I can do the dirty thing..

The New Yorker

"Commercial, for me, is a dirty thing.

The Guardian - Books

I can do the dirty thing...

The New Yorker

"I think it was a dirty thing he did to Hank.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

"Pearly*", featured on the CD1 and Japanese releases of the single, was described by Yorke as a "dirty song for people who use sex for dirty things".

Wikipedia

How pretty should dirty things be?

The New Yorker

Phobias: Any creepy crawlies and general dirty things.

Independent

The only dirty things here are the jockey silks.

The New York Times

"They did dirty things, stole things, and put insults on walls.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "dirty thing" to describe something abstract, ensure the context makes the negative connotation clear. For instance, "corruption is a dirty thing" effectively conveys the immorality of corruption.

Common error

Avoid using "dirty thing" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and professional terms such as "unethical practice" or "corrupt activity" to maintain a serious tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dirty thing" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective "dirty" modifies the noun "thing". Ludwig's examples show it describing both tangible objects and abstract concepts like politics or commercialism.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Huffington Post

12%

Vice

6%

Less common in

Science

1%

Wiki

1%

The Guardian - Arts

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dirty thing" is a common phrase used to express disapproval or disgust, applicable to both physical objects and abstract concepts. While grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig, it's best suited for informal to neutral contexts. When writing formally, consider replacing it with more precise terms like "unethical practice" or "corrupt activity". Remember, as Ludwig's examples demonstrate, the effectiveness of "dirty thing" relies on clear context to convey its negative connotation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

filthy object

Emphasizes the physical uncleanliness of the object.

unclean item

Focuses on the lack of purity or cleanliness.

sordid matter

Highlights the morally degraded or base nature of the issue.

tainted object

Suggests that the object has been corrupted or contaminated.

corrupt practice

Implies unethical or immoral actions.

immoral act

Directly states that the action is against moral principles.

despicable deed

Highlights the contemptible and reprehensible nature of the act.

shameful secret

Emphasizes the embarrassment and disgrace associated with the secret.

disreputable affair

Highlights that the affair is not respectable and damages one's reputation.

dodgy business

Suggests a transaction or activity of questionable legality or ethics.

FAQs

How can I use "dirty thing" in a sentence?

You can use "dirty thing" to describe something physically unclean, morally questionable, or unpleasant. For example: "He considered politics a "dirty thing" because of the corruption involved."

What are some alternatives to "dirty thing"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "filthy object", "sordid matter", or "unclean item".

Is it appropriate to use "dirty thing" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "dirty thing" might be too informal for academic or professional contexts. Consider using more precise and formal language like "unethical practice" or "corrupt activity".

What does "dirty thing" imply?

"Dirty thing" typically implies that something is unpleasant, morally wrong, or physically unclean. The specific meaning depends heavily on the context in which it's used.