What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
muddy
Example
The path was muddy after the rain. [muddy: adjective]
Example
His shoes were muddy from walking in the field. [muddy: adjective]
Example
The situation is getting muddy, and we need to clarify things. [muddy: adjective]
dirty
Example
The dishes were dirty and needed to be washed. [dirty: adjective]
Example
He has a dirty mind and always makes inappropriate jokes. [dirty: adjective]
Example
The city streets can be dirty and unsafe at night. [dirty: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dirty is more commonly used than muddy in everyday language. Dirty is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while muddy is less common and refers specifically to something that is covered in mud.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between muddy and dirty?
Both muddy and dirty are informal words, but dirty can also be used in formal contexts when referring to moral or ethical issues.
