A shady character Meaning in English
expression
Definition
Someone who seems dishonest, suspicious, or likely to be involved in illegal or unethical activities.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal, slightly slangy expression often used to describe people you don't trust, especially in crime or business situations. 'Shady character' suggests suspicion but stops short of an actual accusation. Common with 'seems like' or 'looks like'. Not used for ordinary unkind or annoying people.
Example Sentences
Be careful, he is a shady character.
basic
Everyone knows the boss is a shady character.
basic
You can tell he is a shady character by the way he talks.
basic
I wouldn't trust him—he seems like a shady character to me.
natural
There are a lot of shady characters hanging around this neighborhood at night.
natural
The police were watching a shady character outside the store for hours.
natural