nasty character

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "nasty character" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who has unpleasant or malicious traits, often in a negative context. Example: "Despite his charming exterior, he has a nasty character that reveals itself in his treatment of others."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"I had a very nasty character.

The New York Times - Arts

He is a nasty character, lucky to have the law on his side.

The Guardian - Money

It was like the arrival of the nasty character in a pantomime.

The Guardian

Huckleberry Finn, a nasty character, takes a freed slave down a river in a raft.

The New Yorker

She could be a nasty character, but the playwright humorously spins her out as a fluffy ball of amusing contradictions.

The New York Times

"It's a bizarre and nasty character who wears a lot of leather and likes gags and also has an OxyContin addiction," he enthuses.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

He observed: "Playing a nasty gives one a much better chance – nasty characters are so much more interesting than wimps".

Independent

Berry and Fulcher work well as a twosome, both playing inherently nasty characters.

The Guardian

And I got to be on a horse.' Do you like playing nasty characters?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He was not a man who shied from nasty characters or onscreen violence.

The Guardian - Sport

There were enough reasons to take great exception to them, and there were some very nasty characters.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "nasty character", consider the context. It's often used to describe fictional characters or individuals whose actions are particularly reprehensible. Use it to convey strong disapproval or dislike.

Common error

Avoid using "nasty character" lightly in everyday conversation. It carries a strong negative connotation and can sound overly harsh or dramatic if applied to minor grievances or disagreements. Use milder terms like "unpleasant" or "difficult" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "nasty character" functions as a noun phrase, where "nasty" modifies the noun "character". It serves to describe the type of person being referred to, typically in a derogatory or critical manner. Ludwig AI confirms its usability for describing someone with unpleasant traits.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "nasty character" is a valid and commonly used expression to describe someone with unpleasant or malicious traits, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While grammatically correct and understandable, its strong negative connotation suggests careful consideration of the context. It is mostly found in News & Media. When writing, be mindful of this phrase's forceful implications and its potential overuse in casual environments. Related phrases like "unpleasant person", "mean-spirited individual", or "repulsive individual" provide varying degrees of intensity that can fine-tune your message. Always aim for accuracy and appropriateness in your descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Unpleasant person

Focuses on the unpleasantness of the individual, omitting the character aspect.

Mean-spirited individual

Highlights the meanness of the person's spirit or nature.

Disagreeable fellow

Uses a more formal and somewhat dated term for 'person'.

Repulsive individual

Emphasizes the repulsiveness of the person, which can be physical or moral.

Vile creature

Stronger, more emotive term emphasizing moral depravity.

Despicable person

Indicates that the person is worthy of contempt or scorn.

Horrible human being

Directly attacks the person's quality as a human.

Awful sort

Uses a more vague and less intense descriptor.

Wretched soul

Implies suffering or misery in addition to unpleasantness.

Contemptible figure

Highlights that the person is deserving of contempt.

FAQs

How can I use "nasty character" in a sentence?

You can use "nasty character" to describe someone with unpleasant or malicious traits. For example: "The villain in the story was a truly nasty character." or "Despite his charming exterior, he proved to be a nasty character."

What's the difference between "nasty character" and "unpleasant person"?

"Nasty character" implies a deeper, more inherent unpleasantness, often with malicious intent, while "unpleasant person" simply means someone who is not enjoyable to be around. "Nasty character" suggests a moral failing.

What are some synonyms for "nasty character"?

Synonyms for "nasty character" include "mean-spirited individual", "disagreeable fellow", or "repulsive individual". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to call someone a "nasty character" in a professional setting?

Calling someone a "nasty character" in a professional setting is generally inappropriate. It's highly subjective and can be seen as unprofessional and potentially libelous. Stick to objective descriptions of behavior rather than making personal judgments.