lowlife

word

/ˈloʊlaɪf/
/lˈəʊlaɪf/

Definition

A person considered to be morally bad, dishonest, or involved in criminal behavior. It is an insult used to describe someone of low character.

Usage & Nuances

Informal and strongly negative. Can be a noun ('He's a lowlife') or adjective ('lowlife criminals'). The plural can be 'lowlifes' (more common) or 'lowlives.' Often used in crime dramas, movies, and angry speech. Not used in formal writing.

Example Sentences

The neighborhood is full of lowlifes who cause trouble.

basic

Don't trust him — he's a lowlife thief.

basic

I can't believe she's dating that lowlife — he doesn't even have a job and he's always in trouble with the law.

natural

The movie is about a small-time lowlife who accidentally gets caught up in a massive diamond heist.

natural

Stop acting like a lowlife and take some responsibility for once.

natural

He's nothing but a lowlife and a liar.

basic