Dodgy: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when referring to something potentially unsafe or unreliable, often in casual speech.

• That old bridge looks a bit dodgy to walk on.
• He has a dodgy record; I wouldn't trust him.

Apply this word to describe someone or something that cannot be trusted, typically used in a serious or negative context.

• He is known to be untrustworthy and often lies.
• She kept her distance from him because he appeared untrustworthy.

This word is used to describe something or someone with dishonest or illegal intentions, often in an informal and slightly negative way.

• There are some shady characters hanging around the alley.
• He has a shady past that nobody talks about.

Use this word when expressing a feeling that something is wrong or someone is behaving dishonestly, often implying a cautious or negative view.

• The police found his behavior highly suspicious.
• She gave him a suspicious look when he couldn't explain where he'd been.

Apply this word when doubting the validity, quality, or correctness of something, often in formal or neutral situations.

• The company's financial practices are highly questionable.
• She reached a questionable decision without consulting anyone.

Informal context, often used to describe something or someone suspicious, unreliable, or of low quality.

• That street looks dodgy, maybe we should avoid walking there at night.
• He gave me a dodgy excuse for being late.

Used to generally describe situations, places, or conditions that are not safe, usually in a direct and clear manner.

• This building is unsafe and needs to be repaired.
• The water here is unsafe to drink.

Describes actions or situations that involve exposure to danger, harm, or loss. Often used in both formal and informal contexts.

• Investing in that startup is a risky move.
• Base jumping is considered a risky sport.

Used to describe situations or positions that are unstable or insecure, often implying that they could become worse or lead to danger.

• She was in a precarious position, balancing on the edge of the cliff.
• The company's financial situation has become precarious.

Used in formal or technical contexts to describe something that poses a significant danger or risk to health or safety.

• The factory workers were exposed to hazardous chemicals.
• Driving in such severe weather conditions is hazardous.