dirty dog

Meanings

1. 1phraseidiominformaldisapproving

   A person, usually a man, who behaves in a dishonest, mean or untrustworthy way.

   Grammar: A countable noun phrase used for a person and often with a: he's a dirty dog. It can be an insult.

   Patterns

   • a dirty dog
   • you dirty dog

   He took my idea and claimed it as his own, the dirty dog.

   Everyone knew the landlord was a dirty dog who cheated his tenants.

   She called her ex a dirty dog after he lied about the money.

2. 2phraseidiominformalhumorous

   A playful way to tease a friend who has done something sneaky or cheeky, usually without real anger.

   Grammar: Said to a person directly: you dirty dog. The tone shows it is a joke, not a serious insult.

   Patterns

   • you dirty dog

   You dirty dog, you didn't tell me you were getting married.

   He won the bet and grinned. 'You dirty dog!' I laughed.

   The old friends greeted each other with 'You dirty dog' and a hug.

Word forms

Common combinations

you dirty dog

You dirty dog, you ate the last slice!

a dirty dog

They said he was a dirty dog for leaving the team.

call someone a dirty dog

She called him a dirty dog in front of everyone.

play a dirty dog trick

He played a dirty dog trick on his own brother.

Synonyms and how they differ

scoundrel

Scoundrel sounds old-fashioned and more serious, while dirty dog can be playful.

rascal

Rascal is milder and affectionate, while dirty dog can be much harsher.

rat

Rat strongly suggests betrayal or informing, whereas dirty dog is broader.

rogue

Rogue suggests a charming trickster, while dirty dog is rougher and more insulting.

Opposites

Word family

dirty adjective

Not clean, or dishonest and unfair

dog noun

A common pet animal, also used for a contemptible person

dirtily adverb

In a dishonest or unclean way

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “dirty dog”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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