nasty
word
Definition
Used to describe someone or something that is very unpleasant, unkind, dirty, or harmful. It can refer to bad behavior, a bad smell or taste, or an ugly or difficult situation.
Usage & Nuances
Very common in spoken English and usually fairly strong. 'Nasty' can describe people ('a nasty person'), comments ('a nasty remark'), physical things ('a nasty smell'), weather or accidents ('a nasty storm', 'a nasty fall'), and illnesses ('a nasty cold'). It is broader and more everyday than 'disgusting', and stronger than simply 'unpleasant'.
Example Sentences
That milk smells nasty.
basic
He said something nasty to his sister.
basic
We had nasty weather all weekend.
basic
She can be really nasty when she's angry.
natural
I caught a nasty cold after the trip.
natural
Things got nasty during the meeting.
natural