What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disheveled
Example
He walked into the meeting looking disheveled and unprepared. [disheveled: adjective]
Example
She tried to fix her disheveled hair before going out. [disheveled: adjective]
Example
The bedroom was disheveled with clothes scattered everywhere. [disheveled: adjective]
untidy
Example
The kitchen was untidy with dishes piled up in the sink. [untidy: adjective]
Example
He always looks untidy with his wrinkled shirts and uncombed hair. [untidy: adjective]
Example
Her desk was untidy with papers and books strewn all over. [untidy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Untidy is more commonly used than disheveled in everyday language, and it is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disheveled and untidy?
While untidy can be used in both formal and informal contexts, disheveled has a slightly more informal or casual connotation and is less commonly used in formal settings.
