Fishy: meaning, definitions and examples

Used informally to indicate that something seems strange or suspect, often hinting at dishonesty. It is often used in everyday conversations when something doesn’t feel right.

• I think that deal sounds a bit fishy.
• There’s something fishy about his explanation.

Used to describe a feeling or sense that something is wrong or someone is untrustworthy. Often used in situations involving potential deceit or wrongdoing.

• He was acting very suspicious around the office.
• The police found his behavior suspicious.

Used to indicate doubt or uncertainty, often in a formal or intellectual context. It can imply a lack of credibility or reliability.

• The results of the experiment were dubious at best.
• He made a dubious claim about his qualifications.

Used to indicate something that is open to doubt or debate, often implying that it may not be acceptable, appropriate, or truthful.

• Her motives for volunteering are questionable.
• The company's accounting practices are questionable.

This word is often used when something seems suspicious or not quite right. It can also literally describe the smell of fish.

• That deal sounds fishy to me. Are you sure it's legal?
• The kitchen had a fishy smell after we cooked salmon.

It is used to describe something that smells very bad. This word can have a formal or scientific tone.

• The malodorous fumes from the factory made it hard to breathe.
• The garbage had been left out for days and became extremely malodorous.

This term describes a strong, sharp smell or taste. It can be used for both positive and negative connotations.

• The pungent aroma of the garlic filled the room.
• The cheese has a pungent taste that not everyone likes.

Rank describes a very strong, foul smell. It has a negative connotation.

• The rank odor from the dumpster was unbearable.
• His gym clothes were so rank that no one wanted to go near them.