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B1 adjective #33 most common 13 min read

filthy

Top 33

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips filthy in 30 Seconds

Explanation filthy in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'filthy' is a word you might not use very often, but it is good to know because it helps you describe things that are more than just 'dirty.' Think of it as 'very, very dirty.' If you play outside in the mud and your clothes are covered in brown spots, you can say they are filthy. If you forget to wash your hands after playing with a dog, your hands might be filthy. At this level, you should focus on the physical meaning of the word. It is an adjective, which means it describes a noun (a person, place, or thing). You can use it in simple sentences like 'The car is filthy' or 'I have filthy shoes.' It is important to remember that 'filthy' is a strong word, so you only use it when something is really, really dirty. If there is just a little bit of dust, 'dirty' is a better word. Using 'filthy' shows that you are starting to learn more specific words to describe the world. You might hear your teacher or parents use this word when they want you to clean something. It is a useful word for talking about chores and personal hygiene. Just remember: filthy = very dirty!

As an A2 learner, you can start to use 'filthy' to add more emphasis to your descriptions. You already know 'dirty,' but 'filthy' allows you to express a stronger feeling. For example, if you go to a restaurant and the table is sticky and has old food on it, you can say, 'This table is filthy!' This tells people that you are unhappy with how dirty it is. At this level, you might also see 'filthy' used in simple stories or news reports about the environment. You can use it to describe a river that has a lot of trash in it or a street that hasn't been swept in a long time. You should also practice using 'filthy' with nouns like 'clothes,' 'hands,' 'floor,' and 'windows.' Another thing to learn at A2 is that we often use 'absolutely' with 'filthy' to make it even stronger. You can say, 'My dog is absolutely filthy after his walk.' This sounds very natural. Remember that 'filthy' is usually a negative word, so be careful who you say it to. You wouldn't want to tell someone their house is filthy unless you are very close friends and you are joking!

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'filthy' in both its literal and more common idiomatic forms. One of the most important phrases to learn is 'filthy rich.' This is a very common way to describe people who have a huge amount of money. You might hear it in movies or read it in magazines. For example, 'That famous actor is filthy rich.' It’s an informal expression, so it’s great for conversations with friends. You can also start using 'filthy' to describe weather. In many English-speaking countries, if it is raining hard and the wind is blowing, people might say, 'It’s a filthy day outside.' This doesn't mean the air is dirty; it means the weather is very unpleasant. You should also be aware that 'filthy' can describe a person's mood. If someone is in a 'filthy mood,' they are very angry or grumpy. This is a great way to add variety to your speaking. At B1, you are expected to understand the context of a word, so pay attention to whether 'filthy' is being used to talk about dirt, money, weather, or emotions. This versatility is what makes 'filthy' such a useful word to have in your vocabulary.

By the B2 level, you should understand the moral and social nuances of the word 'filthy.' It is often used to describe things that are considered indecent or offensive. For example, 'filthy language' refers to swearing or using words that are socially unacceptable. You might also hear about 'filthy jokes' or 'filthy pictures,' which are considered inappropriate or 'dirty' in a sexual way. At this level, you can use 'filthy' to express moral indignation. If a company is polluting a river to save money, you might describe their actions as 'filthy.' This shows that you find their behavior not just wrong, but disgusting. You should also be able to distinguish 'filthy' from its synonyms like 'grimy,' 'squalid,' or 'sordid.' While they all relate to being dirty or bad, they have different 'flavors.' 'Squalid' is perfect for describing very poor living conditions, while 'sordid' is better for describing a sleazy political scandal. Using 'filthy' in these more abstract ways will make your English sound more sophisticated and precise. You should also be able to use it in more complex sentence structures, such as 'The city's air was filthy, a direct result of decades of industrial neglect.'

At the C1 level, you should be able to use 'filthy' with a high degree of precision and awareness of its rhetorical impact. You can use it to create vivid imagery in your writing. For instance, instead of saying a character was poor, you might describe them as living in a 'filthy tenement,' which immediately paints a picture of their surroundings and social status. You should also be familiar with the more literary or archaic uses of the word, such as 'filthy lucre' to refer to money, especially when it’s gained through dishonest means. This adds a touch of sophistication to your vocabulary. At this level, you can also explore the use of 'filthy' in different registers. In a formal essay, you might use it to criticize 'filthy business practices,' whereas in a casual conversation, you might use the slang meaning to describe a 'filthy' (meaning incredibly good) guitar solo. You should also be sensitive to the potential offensiveness of the word. Calling a person 'filthy' is a very strong personal attack, and at C1, you should know exactly when such a word is appropriate and when it is better to use a more tempered alternative. Your ability to navigate these subtle shifts in meaning and tone is a hallmark of advanced proficiency.

At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of 'filthy' and can use it in all its various shades of meaning, from the literal to the highly metaphorical and slangy. You understand its etymological roots and how it has evolved over time. You can use it in complex literary analysis, perhaps discussing how a writer uses 'filthy' imagery to symbolize moral decay in a society. You are also aware of the most recent slang developments, such as its use in sports or music to describe something exceptionally skillful or powerful. You can effortlessly switch between these different uses depending on the context. For example, you might use 'filthy' in a technical discussion about environmental pollution, a casual chat about a 'filthy' meal, and a sophisticated critique of a 'filthy' political scandal. Your use of the word is always purposeful and effective, whether you are trying to evoke disgust, emphasize extreme wealth, or praise a creative achievement. At this level, 'filthy' is just one of many tools in your extensive vocabulary, and you know exactly how to use it to achieve the desired effect on your audience. You can also play with the word, perhaps using it ironically or in a pun, showing a deep and intuitive understanding of the English language.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

filthy in 30 Seconds

Filthy is a strong adjective meaning extremely dirty, often to a disgusting degree. It is much more intense than the word 'dirty'.
It can describe physical objects, places, or people, as well as abstract concepts like language, behavior, or moral character.
Common idioms include 'filthy rich' (extremely wealthy) and 'filthy mood' (a very bad or angry temper).
In slang, especially in music and sports, it can be a positive term meaning exceptionally powerful, skillful, or impressive.

The word filthy is a powerful adjective that transcends the simple concept of being 'dirty.' At its core, it describes a state of extreme uncleanness, often to a degree that is repulsive or hazardous to health. When you call something filthy, you are suggesting that it hasn't been cleaned in a very long time, or that it is covered in substances like grime, mud, or waste. However, the utility of 'filthy' extends far beyond the physical world. It is frequently employed to describe moral corruption, unethical behavior, or social indecency. For instance, a 'filthy habit' might refer to something socially unacceptable, while 'filthy language' refers to profanity or obscenity. In modern English, 'filthy' has also taken on an intensifier role, most notably in the phrase 'filthy rich,' where it emphasizes an excessive, almost vulgar amount of wealth. Understanding 'filthy' requires recognizing this spectrum from the literal mud on a boot to the metaphorical stain on a person's character.

Physical State: Refers to objects or places covered in thick dirt, slime, or refuse. It implies a need for deep cleaning rather than a simple dusting.

After working in the coal mines all day, his face was absolutely filthy, with only his eyes showing through the soot.

Moral Connotation: Used to describe actions, thoughts, or people that are considered dishonest, corrupt, or sexually explicit in a way that is deemed offensive.

The politician was caught in a filthy lie that eventually cost him his entire career and reputation.

In social contexts, the word can be used playfully among friends, especially in British English, to describe something impressively good but perhaps slightly 'naughty' or 'excessive,' such as a 'filthy burger' (meaning a very indulgent, messy, but delicious burger). However, one must be careful with the register; calling a person 'filthy' can be a grave insult, implying they lack personal hygiene or are sexually promiscuous in a derogatory sense. The word's versatility is its greatest strength, allowing it to function as a literal descriptor, a moral judgment, or a slang intensifier. Historically, the word derives from the Old English 'fylth,' which is related to 'foul.' This lineage emphasizes the visceral reaction of turning away from something unpleasant. Whether you are describing a neglected apartment, a corrupt business deal, or a rain-soaked dog, 'filthy' provides a vivid image of something that has lost its purity and requires restoration or rejection.

The kitchen in that restaurant was so filthy that the health inspector closed it down immediately.

Intensifier Use: Often paired with 'rich' or 'lucre' to describe money obtained or possessed in a way that seems excessive or shameful.

He became filthy rich after his tech startup was acquired by a global conglomerate.

The dog came inside with filthy paws, leaving mud tracks all over the white carpet.

Using 'filthy' correctly involves matching its intensity to the situation. Because it is a 'strong' adjective, it is rarely used with 'very.' Instead, we use intensifiers like 'absolutely,' 'utterly,' or 'completely.' For example, saying 'the room was very filthy' sounds slightly unnatural to a native speaker; 'the room was absolutely filthy' is much more common. When describing physical objects, 'filthy' is best reserved for things that are noticeably and unpleasantly dirty. A car with a bit of dust is 'dirty,' but a car covered in dried mud and bird droppings is 'filthy.' This distinction is crucial for maintaining the descriptive power of your vocabulary.

Grammar Tip: 'Filthy' is a non-gradable adjective in many contexts. Use 'absolutely' instead of 'very' to emphasize it.

The windows were so filthy that we could barely see the garden outside.

In the realm of behavior and ethics, 'filthy' is used to cast a negative light on actions. 'Filthy looks' are expressions of deep anger or hatred. 'Filthy lies' are particularly deceptive or harmful falsehoods. When you use 'filthy' in these contexts, you are adding a layer of moral disgust. It’s not just that the person lied; it’s that the lie was 'dirty' or 'underhanded.' This metaphorical use is very common in literature and journalism to emphasize the severity of a scandal or a betrayal. Furthermore, 'filthy' can be used as an adverb in certain collocations, though this is less common than its adjective form. For instance, 'filthy-minded' describes someone who frequently thinks about or makes jokes about sexual matters in a way that others find offensive.

She gave him a filthy look after he made that insensitive comment during dinner.

Common Collocations: Filthy rich, filthy weather, filthy habit, filthy language, filthy lucre, filthy mood.

I need to take a shower; I feel filthy after spending the whole day cleaning the garage.

Another interesting use of 'filthy' is in the phrase 'filthy lucre.' This is a somewhat old-fashioned or literary way to refer to money, especially money that has been gained dishonestly. It highlights the idea that wealth can be 'tainted' by the way it was acquired. In contrast, the modern slang 'filthy rich' is almost always used to describe people who have a staggering amount of money, regardless of how they got it. In this case, 'filthy' serves as a superlative, indicating that the wealth is so great it’s almost beyond comprehension. When practicing your use of 'filthy,' try to imagine the physical or moral 'grime' you are trying to convey. This will help you choose the right context and ensure your meaning is clear to your audience.

The air in the industrial zone was filthy with smog and chemical fumes.

Don't put your filthy shoes on the new sofa!

Register: Informal to Neutral. While it can be used in formal writing to describe corruption, it is most common in everyday speech.

You will encounter the word 'filthy' in a wide variety of settings, from the most mundane household chores to high-stakes political reporting. In a domestic setting, parents often use it with their children: 'Your hands are filthy, go wash them before dinner!' or 'This room is filthy, clean it up right now!' In these cases, it’s a direct, emphatic way to demand cleanliness. In the workplace, particularly in manual labor or industrial jobs, 'filthy' is a standard descriptor for the working conditions. A mechanic might come home 'filthy' with oil and grease, or a construction worker might be 'filthy' with dust and cement. Here, the word is literal and lacks the moral judgment found in other contexts.

'Get those filthy paws off the counter!' the baker shouted at the stray dog.

In the media, 'filthy' is a favorite of tabloid journalists and news anchors when reporting on scandals. You might hear about a 'filthy political campaign' involving personal attacks and misinformation. Movie reviews might describe a gritty, realistic film as having a 'filthy aesthetic,' meaning it looks unpolished and raw. In the world of finance, 'filthy rich' is a ubiquitous term used to describe billionaires and the ultra-wealthy. It’s often used with a hint of envy or criticism, suggesting that such wealth is almost obscene. Interestingly, in the music world, particularly in electronic dance music (EDM), 'filthy' is often used as a compliment. A 'filthy bassline' or a 'filthy drop' refers to a sound that is heavy, distorted, and incredibly powerful—something that 'hits hard' and excites the crowd.

Media Usage: Used in headlines to grab attention, especially regarding scandals or extreme wealth.

The documentary exposed the filthy conditions in the city's overcrowded prisons.

Literature also makes frequent use of 'filthy' to create atmosphere. Dickens, for example, often described the 'filthy streets' of Victorian London to highlight the poverty and neglect of the era. In modern fiction, a character might have a 'filthy temper,' meaning they get angry very easily and express it in an unpleasant way. In sports, a 'filthy pitch' in baseball or a 'filthy move' in basketball refers to a play that is so skillful and deceptive that it’s almost 'unfair' to the opponent. This positive, slang-inflected use is becoming increasingly common among younger generations. Whether it’s a literal description of a mud-caked boot or a metaphorical description of a corrupt deal, 'filthy' is a word that carries significant weight and color in the English language.

That curveball was filthy; the batter didn't stand a chance of hitting it.

The old man lived in a filthy shack at the edge of the woods, surrounded by piles of junk.

Social Media: Often used in 'clean-tok' or home renovation videos to show 'before' shots of extremely dirty spaces.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is using 'filthy' when 'dirty' would be more appropriate. Remember that 'filthy' is an extreme word. If you use it for something that is only slightly messy, you might sound overly dramatic or even rude. For example, if a friend has a few crumbs on their shirt, calling them 'filthy' would be a significant overreaction. Reserve 'filthy' for situations that truly warrant a sense of disgust or extreme neglect. Another common error is the misuse of intensifiers. As mentioned before, 'filthy' is an absolute adjective. Using 'very filthy' is redundant and technically incorrect in formal grammar, much like saying 'very unique' or 'very dead.' Instead, use 'absolutely,' 'completely,' or 'totally.'

Mistake 1: Overuse: Using 'filthy' for minor messes. Correct: 'Your shirt is a bit dirty.' Incorrect: 'Your shirt is filthy' (unless it's covered in mud).

Correct: The abandoned house was absolutely filthy. Incorrect: The abandoned house was very filthy.

Confusion also arises with the word 'filth.' 'Filth' is the noun, and 'filthy' is the adjective. You cannot say 'The room was full of filthy'; you must say 'The room was full of filth' or 'The room was filthy.' Additionally, be careful with the phrase 'filthy rich.' While it is a common idiom, using it in a very formal business report might be seen as unprofessional or biased. It is better suited for casual conversation, journalism, or creative writing. Similarly, using 'filthy' to describe a person's character can be very offensive. Unless you intend to strongly insult someone's morality or hygiene, it’s safer to use more specific terms like 'dishonest,' 'unethical,' or 'unhygienic.'

Mistake 2: Confusing Noun and Adjective: 'There is so much filthy here' is incorrect. Use 'There is so much filth here' or 'This place is filthy.'

He scrubbed the filthy floor until it sparkled, removing years of accumulated filth.

Finally, be aware of the regional differences in slang. While 'filthy' can be a compliment in certain music or sports circles, this usage is not universal. If you use it this way with someone who isn't familiar with the slang, they might think you are being negative. Always consider your audience and the context. If you're in a professional setting, stick to the literal or established metaphorical meanings. If you're with friends or in a specific subculture, you can explore the more creative and slangy uses of the word. Mastering these nuances will help you avoid awkward misunderstandings and make your English sound more natural and sophisticated.

The river was filthy with industrial waste, making it unsafe for swimming.

Mistake 3: Tone Mismatch: Using 'filthy' in a formal apology might sound too aggressive. 'I'm sorry the car is dirty' is better than 'I'm sorry the car is filthy.'

When 'filthy' feels a bit too strong or not quite specific enough, there are several alternatives you can use, each with its own nuance. 'Dirty' is the most common and neutral alternative, suitable for almost any situation where something isn't clean. 'Grimy' suggests a layer of dirt that has been rubbed in or has accumulated over time, often feeling sticky or oily. 'Squalid' is a much more intense word, usually used to describe living conditions that are not only filthy but also neglected and miserable. You might describe a 'squalid apartment' or 'squalid poverty.' This word carries a strong sense of social and moral concern.

Filthy vs. Grimy: 'Filthy' is general extreme dirt. 'Grimy' specifically implies a thin, often oily layer of dirt on a surface.

The mechanic's hands were grimy from working on the engine all afternoon.

'Mucky' is a more informal, British English term, often used to describe things covered in mud or dirt, like 'mucky boots' or 'mucky kids.' It’s less harsh than 'filthy' and often used more affectionately or casually. 'Sordid' is the best alternative when you want to focus on the moral aspect. A 'sordid affair' or a 'sordid history' implies something that is morally degraded, shameful, or sleazy. While 'filthy' can also mean this, 'sordid' is more specific to the ethical dimension. 'Polluted' is the technical term for environmental 'filth,' such as 'polluted water' or 'polluted air.' Using the right word helps you communicate your exact meaning and shows a higher level of English proficiency.

Filthy vs. Squalid: 'Filthy' describes the dirt itself. 'Squalid' describes the overall wretchedness and neglect of a place.

They lived in squalid conditions, with no running water or electricity.

In more formal or academic writing, you might use 'contaminated' or 'unhygienic.' For example, 'The samples were contaminated by dust' or 'The hospital conditions were unhygienic.' These words are more precise and objective than 'filthy,' which is more emotional and subjective. On the other end of the spectrum, 'vile' and 'revolting' can be used to describe something that is so filthy it causes physical nausea. These are very strong words and should be used sparingly. By expanding your vocabulary beyond 'filthy,' you can describe the world around you with much greater detail and impact. Whether you are writing a story, giving a presentation, or just chatting with friends, choosing the perfect word makes all the difference.

The vile smell coming from the trash can made everyone hold their breath.

Filthy vs. Sordid: 'Filthy' can be physical or moral. 'Sordid' is almost always moral, referring to sleazy or ignoble actions.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'filth' is related to the word 'foul.' In the past, it was often used to describe moral sin as much as physical dirt.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈfɪl.θi/

US /ˈfɪl.θi/

The stress is on the first syllable: FIL-thy.

Rhymes With

guilty silty miltie stilty wilty frailty (near rhyme) healthy (near rhyme) stealthy (near rhyme)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'th' as 't' or 's' (e.g., 'filty' or 'filsy').
Making the 'i' sound too long (e.g., 'feel-thy').
Forgetting the 'y' at the end when using it as an adjective.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in context as 'very dirty.'

Writing 3/5

Requires care to use intensifiers like 'absolutely' correctly.

Speaking 3/5

The 'th' sound can be tricky for some learners.

Listening 2/5

Commonly used in movies and daily speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

dirty clean very money weather

Learn Next

squalid grimy sordid lucre indecent

Advanced

turpitude obscenity contamination profanity muckraking

Grammar to Know

Absolute Adjectives

You say 'absolutely filthy,' not 'very filthy.'

Adjective Order

A 'filthy old' sofa (opinion before age).

Compound Adjectives

A 'filthy-minded' person uses a hyphen.

Adverbs of Manner

He looked at me 'filthily' (less common than 'with a filthy look').

Noun vs Adjective

'The filth' (noun) vs 'The filthy room' (adjective).

Examples by Level

My hands are filthy from the garden.

Mes mains sont très sales à cause du jardin.

'Filthy' describes the noun 'hands.'

The dog is filthy after playing in the mud.

Le chien est très sale après avoir joué dans la boue.

Used after the verb 'is.'

Don't put your filthy shoes on the rug.

Ne mets pas tes chaussures sales sur le tapis.

'Filthy' is an adjective before 'shoes.'

The kitchen floor was filthy.

Le sol de la cuisine était très sale.

Past tense 'was' with 'filthy.'

I need to wash this filthy shirt.

Je dois laver cette chemise très sale.

'Filthy' modifies 'shirt.'

The windows are filthy and I can't see out.

Les fenêtres sont très sales et je ne vois rien.

Two adjectives: 'filthy' and 'can't see.'

His face was filthy after the football game.

Son visage était très sale après le match de foot.

'Filthy' describes 'face.'

The water in the bucket was filthy.

L'eau dans le seau était très sale.

'Filthy' describes 'water.'

The restaurant was absolutely filthy.

Le restaurant était absolument dégoûtant.

'Absolutely' is a common intensifier for 'filthy.'

We found a filthy old sofa in the street.

On a trouvé un vieux canapé dégoûtant dans la rue.

Multiple adjectives: 'filthy' and 'old.'

The air in the city is often filthy.

L'air en ville est souvent très pollué.

'Filthy' used for air pollution.

I feel filthy after that long bus ride.

Je me sens sale après ce long trajet en bus.

'Feel' + adjective.

The bathroom was so filthy I didn't want to use it.

La salle de bain était si sale que je ne voulais pas l'utiliser.

'So... that' construction.

The children came home with filthy clothes.

Les enfants sont rentrés avec des vêtements très sales.

'With' + adjective + noun.

He told a filthy joke that no one liked.

Il a raconté une blague déplacée que personne n'a aimée.

'Filthy' meaning inappropriate.

The pond was filthy with green slime.

L'étang était dégoûtant avec de la vase verte.

'Filthy with' + substance.

He became filthy rich after selling his company.

Il est devenu immensément riche après avoir vendu son entreprise.

'Filthy rich' is a common idiom.

It's a filthy day, so let's stay inside.

C'est une journée affreuse, alors restons à l'intérieur.

'Filthy' describing bad weather.

She's in a filthy mood today, so be careful.

Elle est d'une humeur massacrante aujourd'hui, alors fais attention.

'Filthy mood' means very bad mood.

The scandal was all over the filthy tabloids.

Le scandale était partout dans les tabloïds de caniveau.

'Filthy' used to criticize media.

I can't believe you're wearing those filthy jeans to the party.

Je n'arrive pas à croire que tu portes ce jean dégueulasse à la fête.

Emphasis on 'filthy.'

The ocean was filthy with plastic waste.

L'océan était souillé par les déchets plastiques.

'Filthy with' used for pollution.

He gave me a filthy look when I asked for help.

Il m'a lancé un regard noir quand j'ai demandé de l'aide.

'Filthy look' means a look of anger/disgust.

The apartment was in a filthy state when they moved in.

L'appartement était dans un état lamentable quand ils ont emménagé.

'In a filthy state' is a common phrase.

The politician was accused of taking filthy lucre.

Le politicien a été accusé d'avoir accepté de l'argent sale.

'Filthy lucre' is a literary term for money.

The factory was fined for its filthy emissions.

L'usine a été condamnée à une amende pour ses émissions polluantes.

'Filthy' used in a semi-formal context.

I'm tired of your filthy lies!

J'en ai assez de tes sales mensonges !

'Filthy' adds moral weight to 'lies.'

The documentary showed the filthy conditions of the slums.

Le documentaire montrait les conditions insalubres des bidonvilles.

'Filthy conditions' is a standard collocation.

He has a filthy habit of biting his nails.

Il a la sale habitude de se ronger les ongles.

'Filthy habit' means an unpleasant habit.

The movie was criticized for its filthy language.

Le film a été critiqué pour son langage grossier.

'Filthy language' refers to profanity.

The water was filthy, teeming with bacteria.

L'eau était souillée, grouillante de bactéries.

'Teeming with' adds to the description.

She scrubbed the filthy grout with a toothbrush.

Elle a frotté les joints sales avec une brosse à dents.

Specific noun 'grout.'

The city's underbelly was a filthy maze of crime.

Les bas-fonds de la ville étaient un dédale immonde de criminalité.

Metaphorical use of 'filthy.'

He dismissed the rumors as filthy gossip.

Il a balayé les rumeurs en les qualifiant de commérages méprisables.

'Filthy' used to devalue 'gossip.'

The company's history is marred by filthy deals.

L'histoire de l'entreprise est entachée par des transactions malhonnêtes.

'Filthy deals' implies corruption.

The air was filthy, thick with the smell of decay.

L'air était vicié, imprégné d'une odeur de décomposition.

Sensory description.

He made a filthy amount of money from the crisis.

Il a gagné une somme d'argent indécente grâce à la crise.

'Filthy amount' emphasizes excess.

The critic described the play as a filthy piece of work.

Le critique a décrit la pièce comme une œuvre abjecte.

Strong subjective judgment.

The river, once pristine, was now a filthy drain.

La rivière, autrefois pure, n'était plus qu'un égout immonde.

Contrast between 'pristine' and 'filthy.'

She felt a sense of filthy betrayal after he lied.

Elle a ressenti un sentiment de trahison ignoble après qu'il a menti.

'Filthy' describes the quality of the betrayal.

The protagonist's journey took him through the filthy corridors of power.

Le voyage du protagoniste l'a mené à travers les couloirs corrompus du pouvoir.

Sophisticated metaphor for political corruption.

The prose was intentionally filthy, reflecting the character's depravity.

La prose était délibérément crue, reflétant la dépravation du personnage.

'Filthy' used to describe literary style.

He wallowed in the filthy lucre of his ill-gotten gains.

Il se vautrait dans l'argent sale de ses profits mal acquis.

Use of 'wallow' and 'filthy lucre.'

The environment was a filthy tapestry of industrial waste and neglect.

L'environnement était une mosaïque immonde de déchets industriels et de négligence.

Complex metaphor ('tapestry').

The scandal exposed the filthy reality behind the glamorous facade.

Le scandale a révélé la réalité sordide derrière la façade glamour.

Contrast between 'glamorous' and 'filthy.'

His reputation was dragged through the filthy mire of public opinion.

Sa réputation a été traînée dans la boue de l'opinion publique.

'Filthy mire' is a strong idiom.

The air was so filthy it seemed to have a physical weight.

L'air était si vicié qu'il semblait avoir un poids physique.

Hyperbole for emphasis.

She rejected his filthy advances with a look of pure scorn.

Elle a rejeté ses avances dégoûtantes avec un regard de pur mépris.

'Filthy advances' refers to unwanted sexual attention.

Common Collocations

filthy rich

filthy habit

filthy weather

filthy language

filthy look

filthy mood

filthy lucre

absolutely filthy

filthy conditions

filthy lie

Common Phrases

get your hands filthy

— To get very dirty, or metaphorically, to get involved in difficult or dishonest work.

You'll have to get your hands filthy if you want to fix this engine.

filthy-minded

— Someone who is always thinking about sexual things in an inappropriate way.

Don't be so filthy-minded; it was just a normal comment!

a filthy day

— A day with very bad, rainy, and windy weather.

It's a filthy day to be out hiking.

wash your filthy mouth out

— A phrase used (often to children) when they use bad language.

If you say that again, I'll wash your filthy mouth out with soap!

filthy-dirty

— A redundant but common way to emphasize how dirty something is.

The car was filthy-dirty after the road trip.

in a filthy state

— In a very dirty or messy condition.

The house was left in a filthy state by the previous tenants.

filthy lucre

— Money, especially when gained in a way that is considered shameful.

He cared more for filthy lucre than for his friends.

filthy beast

— An insult for someone who is dirty or has behaved in a disgusting way.

You filthy beast, you've eaten all the cake!

filthy animal

— A humorous or aggressive insult, famously used in the movie 'Home Alone'.

Keep the change, ya filthy animal!

filthy casual

— A modern internet slang term for someone who plays a game but isn't very serious or skilled.

He only plays on easy mode; what a filthy casual.

Often Confused With

filthy vs dirty

'Dirty' is the neutral, general term. 'Filthy' is the extreme version.

filthy vs filth

'Filth' is the noun (the dirt). 'Filthy' is the adjective (the description).

filthy vs foul

'Foul' often implies a bad smell or taste, while 'filthy' focuses on the dirt itself.

Idioms & Expressions

"filthy rich"

— Extremely wealthy, often implying the wealth is excessive or obscene.

Her family is filthy rich; they own three private islands.

informal

"filthy lucre"

— Money, especially when it is gained dishonestly or considered to have a corrupting influence.

The politician was more interested in filthy lucre than in serving the public.

literary

"give someone a filthy look"

— To look at someone with great anger, disapproval, or disgust.

She gave him a filthy look when he interrupted her speech.

neutral

"in a filthy mood"

— To be very angry, irritable, or bad-tempered.

Don't ask the boss for a raise today; he's in a filthy mood.

informal

"filthy weather"

— Very unpleasant weather, usually involving heavy rain and wind.

It was a filthy night to be out on the streets.

informal

"wash one's filthy hands of"

— A variation of 'wash one's hands of,' implying the situation being abandoned is corrupt or disgusting.

I'm washing my filthy hands of this whole corrupt business.

metaphorical

"filthy habit"

— A practice or behavior that is considered disgusting or socially unacceptable.

Picking your nose is a filthy habit.

neutral

"filthy language"

— The use of profanity or socially offensive words.

The movie was rated R for its filthy language.

neutral

"filthy-minded"

— Having a tendency to interpret things in a sexual or inappropriate way.

Stop being so filthy-minded; it's a perfectly innocent joke.

informal

"drag someone's name through the filth"

— To ruin someone's reputation by making scandalous or disgusting accusations.

They dragged his name through the filth during the election campaign.

metaphorical

Easily Confused

filthy vs grimy

Both mean dirty.

'Grimy' implies a thin, sticky layer of dirt. 'Filthy' is more general and extreme.

The window was grimy with fingerprints, but the floor was filthy.

filthy vs squalid

Both mean very dirty.

'Squalid' specifically refers to miserable, neglected living conditions.

The apartment wasn't just filthy; it was squalid.

filthy vs sordid

Both can mean morally bad.

'Sordid' is almost exclusively used for moral/ethical filth.

It was a sordid tale of greed and betrayal.

filthy vs mucky

Both mean dirty.

'Mucky' is informal and usually refers to mud or soil.

The kids came in with mucky boots.

filthy vs polluted

Both mean contaminated.

'Polluted' is a more technical/scientific term for environmental damage.

The air is filthy and the water is polluted.

Sentence Patterns

The [noun] is filthy.

The car is filthy.

It is absolutely filthy.

He is filthy rich.

In a filthy [noun]

In a filthy mood.

Filthy with [substance]

Filthy with grease.

[Noun] was a filthy [noun]

The river was a filthy drain.

The filthy [noun] of [noun]

The filthy corridors of power.

Marred by filthy [noun]

Marred by filthy lies.

Word Family

Nouns

filth (the dirt itself)

filthiness (the state of being filthy)

Verbs

befilth (rare, to make something filthy)

Adjectives

filthy (primary form)

foul

defile

filler (unrelated)

filter (unrelated)

filth-monger

How to Use It

frequency

Common in daily speech and journalism.

Common Mistakes

He is very filthy. → He is absolutely filthy.
'Filthy' is an absolute adjective, so 'absolutely' is more appropriate than 'very.'
The room was full of filthy. → The room was full of filth.
'Filthy' is an adjective; 'filth' is the noun you need here.
I have filty hands. → I have filthy hands.
Don't forget the 'h' in 'th.' It's a common spelling and pronunciation error.
The weather is dirty today. → The weather is filthy today.
We don't usually use 'dirty' for weather; 'filthy' is the correct idiomatic choice.
He made a filthy deal. (meaning a small deal) → He made a dirty deal.
'Filthy' implies something much more serious or corrupt than just 'dirty.'

Tips

Upgrade from 'Dirty'

Whenever you want to say 'very dirty,' try using 'filthy' instead to sound more expressive.

Use 'Absolutely'

Pair 'filthy' with 'absolutely' for maximum impact in your sentences.

Music Context

If you're into EDM or Dubstep, you'll hear 'filthy' used to describe great sounds.

Filthy Rich

Use 'filthy rich' when talking about billionaires or celebrities in a casual way.

British Weather

Use 'filthy' to describe a cold, rainy, and miserable day in London.

Be Careful with Insults

Avoid calling people 'filthy' directly unless you are prepared for a conflict.

Descriptive Power

Use 'filthy' in creative writing to show, not just tell, that a place is neglected.

Filthy Mood

Use 'filthy mood' instead of 'bad mood' to show a higher level of anger.

Think of 'Foul'

Remember that 'filthy' comes from the same root as 'foul' to remember its meaning.

Emphasis

Stress the first syllable (FIL-thy) to sound natural.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'FILL'ed 'TH'ings 'Y'uck. When something is 'filthy,' it is filled with things that make you say 'yuck!'

Visual Association

Imagine a white rug covered in thick, black, oily mud. That is 'filthy.'

Word Web

dirty grimy squalid rich mood weather language habit

Challenge

Try to use 'filthy' in three different ways today: once for dirt, once for wealth (filthy rich), and once for weather.

Word Origin

Derived from the Old English word 'fylth,' which means 'foulness' or 'uncleanness.'

Original meaning: The state of being foul or dirty, specifically related to waste or rot.

Germanic (related to the Dutch 'vuilte' and German 'Faulheit').

Cultural Context

Be careful when calling a person 'filthy,' as it can be a very strong personal insult regarding their hygiene or morals.

Commonly used in the UK for weather and in the US for wealth.

'Keep the change, ya filthy animal' from Home Alone. 'Filthy Lucre' is the name of a famous Sex Pistols tour. 'Filthy Rich' is a common title for TV shows about the wealthy.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Cleaning the house

This floor is filthy.
The oven is absolutely filthy.
I'm filthy from cleaning.

Talking about money

He's filthy rich.
They made filthy amounts of money.
It's all filthy lucre.

Describing weather

It's a filthy day.
The weather is filthy.
What a filthy night!

Discussing behavior

That's a filthy habit.
Don't use such filthy language.
He gave me a filthy look.

Environmental issues

The river is filthy.
The air is filthy with smog.
Filthy industrial waste.

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever stayed in a hotel room that was absolutely filthy?"

"What do you think about people who are filthy rich—should they give more to charity?"

"What's the filthiest job you've ever had to do?"

"Do you think 'filthy' is too strong a word to describe bad weather?"

"Have you ever been given a filthy look by a stranger? What happened?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time you got absolutely filthy. What were you doing and how did you feel?

Write about a 'filthy habit' you have or someone you know has. Why is it considered filthy?

If you were filthy rich, what is the first thing you would buy or do?

Describe a place that was filthy. Use all your senses (sight, smell, touch).

What is your opinion on 'filthy language' in movies? Does it make them more realistic?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'filthy' is not a swear word, but it is a strong adjective that can be used to describe bad things, like 'filthy language' or 'filthy behavior.'

It's better to say 'absolutely filthy' because 'filthy' is already an extreme word. Native speakers rarely use 'very' with it.

It means someone has a huge amount of money, often more than they need. It's a very common informal expression.

Yes, in British English, a 'filthy day' means a day with very bad rain and wind.

Yes, in slang (like music or sports), it can mean something is incredibly good or impressive, like a 'filthy bassline.'

'Filth' is the noun (e.g., 'The room was full of filth'). 'Filthy' is the adjective (e.g., 'The room was filthy').

It is an unvoiced 'th,' like in the word 'thin.' Your tongue should be between your teeth.

It is mostly neutral to informal. In very formal writing, you might use 'squalid' or 'unhygienic' instead.

It's an old-fashioned way to say money, especially money that was earned in a bad or dishonest way.

Be careful! Calling someone 'filthy' is a strong insult. It means they are very dirty or have a bad character.