spotty
word
Definition
Describes something covered with spots, or something inconsistent in quality or performance. It can also refer to skin with pimples or acne.
Usage & Nuances
Common for describing skin with acne ('spotty skin'), unreliable performance ('spotty Wi-Fi'), or something irregular. Not used for 'spotted' animals (use 'spotted' for that). Informal to neutral tone.
Spanish: manchado - irregular - con granos (piel)Portuguese (BR): manchado - irregular - cheio de espinhas (pele)Portuguese (PT): manchado - irregular - com borbulhas (pele)Chinese (Simplified): 有斑点的 - 不稳定的 - 长痘的（皮肤）Chinese (Traditional): 有斑點的 - 不穩定的 - 長痘的（皮膚）Hindi: धब्बेदार - असमान - मुंहासों वाली (त्वचा)Arabic: ملطخ - غير منتظم - مليء بالبثور (بشرة)
Example Sentences
She has spotty skin because of her acne.
basic
The dog has a spotty coat with many brown spots.
basic
My internet connection is spotty today.
basic
His work performance was spotty last month, sometimes good, sometimes bad.
natural
Cell phone service gets spotty when you drive into the hills.
natural
Don’t worry about your spotty past—people can change.
natural