Down and dirty: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Down and dirty” mean?

"Down and dirty" means actively engaging in the nitty-gritty details or undertaking the laborious tasks.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I rolled up my sleeves and got down and dirty with the project.

Example

The team was willing to get down and dirty to meet the deadline.

Example

She's not afraid to get down and dirty to achieve her goals

Is “Down and dirty” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Down and dirty” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Down and dirty” effectively in context?

You can use "Down and Dirty" to describe getting involved in the details or doing the hard work. It emphasizes a willingness to get hands-on and tackle the nitty-gritty aspects of a task or project. For example, if someone is willing to do whatever it takes to complete a project, you might say, 'He's not afraid to get down and dirty.'

• 1. Work

  I rolled up my sleeves and got down and dirty with the project.

• 2. Teamwork

  The team was willing to get down and dirty to meet the deadline.

• 3. Ambition

  She's not afraid to get down and dirty to achieve her goals.

Similar phrases to “Down and dirty”:

Get one's hands dirty

To involve oneself in the practical aspects or hard work of a task

Example

He's not afraid to get his hands dirty and do the heavy lifting.

Roll up one's sleeves

To prepare for hard work or involvement in a task

Example

She rolled up her sleeves and got ready to tackle the project.

Dig in

To start working on something with enthusiasm and determination

Example

They dug in and began the challenging task.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Down and dirty” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Down and Dirty" is unknown.

Is “Down and dirty” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Down and Dirty" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe someone's willingness to do the hard work or get involved in the details of a task or project.

What tone does “Down and dirty” have?

"Down and Dirty" conveys a tone of determination and willingness to put in the necessary effort. It implies a strong work ethic and a hands-on approach to getting things done.

Can “Down and dirty” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Down and Dirty" is more commonly used in informal settings, such as casual conversations with friends, family, or colleagues. It may not be as frequently used in formal situations or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's not afraid to get down and dirty and do the hard work.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to get "down and dirty"!' to imply readiness to tackle a challenging task.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• get stuck in
• get down to business
• get hands-on
• dive in
• get into the thick of it

Antonyms

• stay on the surface
• keep one's hands clean
• avoid the hard work
• shy away from involvement