Slovenly: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes a person or behavior that is habitually careless and neglectful of neatness. Typically used to criticize someone's permanent lack of tidiness.

• His slovenly habits were a constant source of frustration for his roommates.
• The slovenly appearance of the office raised concerns about their professionalism.

Describes something that lacks neatness or order. Generally refers to personal appearance or physical spaces.

• The untidy desk was filled with papers and various clutter.
• He looked quite untidy with his uncombed hair and wrinkled shirt.

A common word for a general lack of order or cleanliness. Can refer to both physical spaces and situations.

• Her room was always messy with clothes and books strewn everywhere.
• The breakup left their relationship in a messy state.

Used to describe someone or something that is messy or untidy due to being in disarray. Often implies temporary disorder rather than habitual untidiness.

• She came to the meeting looking disheveled after being caught in the rain.
• After the long journey, his clothes were disheveled and wrinkled.

Indicates something done carelessly and too quickly, without attention to detail. Carries a strong negative connotation of poor quality work.

• The project was finished in a slapdash manner, leading to multiple errors.
• His slapdash approach to cooking often resulted in unappetizing meals.

This word is used to describe something or someone who is messy or not well-kept. It often has a negative connotation.

• Her slovenly appearance made a poor impression during the interview.
• The house was in a slovenly state, with clothes and dishes scattered everywhere.

Used when something is done without paying attention or without much thought or concern. This can have negative implications depending on the situation.

• He carelessly tossed the keys onto the table, not noticing they fell to the floor.
• She carelessly drove through the stoplight, almost causing an accident.

Used to indicate that something is not neat or orderly. It is softer than 'slovenly' but still carries a negative implication.

• He untidily scribbled a note to his friend.
• The papers were untidily arranged on his desk.

Describes something done in a random, chaotic or disorganized way, without any systematic planning. The word often implies a lack of preparation or order.

• Books were stacked haphazardly all over the room.
• The decorations were placed haphazardly, with no regard to symmetry or design.