“Dodgy” is a British and Australian slang word that means something is risky, suspicious, or just not quite right. If a deal, person, or place feels unsafe or unreliable, you can call it dodgy.
People drop “dodgy” into everyday chat all the time. They’ll say the pub down the street looks dodgy after dark, or warn you that the second-hand car seller seems a bit dodgy. It’s a quick, friendly way to flag that something feels off without sounding too serious.
Meaning & Usage Examples
- That website keeps crashing—looks dodgy to me.
- I wouldn’t eat the sushi from that dodgy-looking food truck.
- He gave me a dodgy excuse for being late.
Common Context
You’ll hear “dodgy” when friends talk about sketchy neighborhoods, cheap electronics, or anyone who might try to scam you. It’s light and conversational, not formal.
Is “dodgy” only British?
Most common in the UK and Australia, but Americans understand it thanks to movies and shows.
Can “dodgy” describe people?
Yes. If a person acts shifty or untrustworthy, you can call them “a bit dodgy.”
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