What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
squalid
Example
The homeless man lived in a squalid alleyway filled with garbage and rats. [squalid: adjective]
Example
The politician's squalid past was exposed by the media. [squalid: adjective]
Example
She was dressed in squalid clothes and had not showered in days. [squalid: adjective]
dirty
Example
The kitchen was dirty and needed a good cleaning. [dirty: adjective]
Example
He came home from work with dirty hands and clothes. [dirty: adjective]
Example
The company was involved in dirty business practices. [dirty: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dirty is more commonly used than squalid in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and is more versatile.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between squalid and dirty?
Squalid is more formal and less versatile than dirty, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
