What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scummy
Example
The pool was scummy and needed to be cleaned. [scummy: adjective]
Example
He's a scummy guy who cheats people out of their money. [scummy: adjective]
Example
I don't want to go to that part of town, it's pretty scummy. [scummy: adjective]
dirty
Example
I need to wash these dirty dishes before I can cook. [dirty: adjective]
Example
That joke was really dirty, I don't want to hear any more like that. [dirty: adjective]
Example
The air in the city is so dirty, it's hard to breathe sometimes. [dirty: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dirty is more commonly used than scummy in everyday language. Dirty is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while scummy is less common and refers to a specific type of uncleanliness.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between scummy and dirty?
Dirty is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while scummy is more informal and may not be appropriate for formal situations.
