Be a dirty word
phrase
To describe something that is not appreciated, liked or accepted in a society or group.
Privatization is a dirty word in this small town's community-based economy.
Often appears as...
- work has become a dirty word
- profit is a dirty word
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
To describe something that is not appreciated, liked or accepted in a society or group.
Privatization is a dirty word in this small town's community-based economy.
Often appears as...
- work has become a dirty word
- profit is a dirty word
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation
It means there's strong dislike or disapproval towards something within a particular context.
In environmentally conscious circles, 'plastic' has become a dirty word.
Pro Tip 2/3Cultural Variance
Different cultures or groups may have varying reactions to what they consider a dirty word.
In our nonprofit, 'commercialization' is a dirty word, unlike in the corporate world.
Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Impact
Using it can evoke strong emotions, often to highlight societal values and concerns.
To the veteran activists, 'compromise' had become a dirty word.
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation
It means there's strong dislike or disapproval towards something within a particular context.
In environmentally conscious circles, 'plastic' has become a dirty word.
Pro Tip 2/3Cultural Variance
Different cultures or groups may have varying reactions to what they consider a dirty word.
In our nonprofit, 'commercialization' is a dirty word, unlike in the corporate world.
Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Impact
Using it can evoke strong emotions, often to highlight societal values and concerns.
To the veteran activists, 'compromise' had become a dirty word.
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation
It means there's strong dislike or disapproval towards something within a particular context.
In environmentally conscious circles, 'plastic' has become a dirty word.
Pro Tip 2/3Cultural Variance
Different cultures or groups may have varying reactions to what they consider a dirty word.
In our nonprofit, 'commercialization' is a dirty word, unlike in the corporate world.
Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Impact
Using it can evoke strong emotions, often to highlight societal values and concerns.
To the veteran activists, 'compromise' had become a dirty word.
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