Useful English Word or Phrase to Boost Your English: A Right Old State

Quick summary: A common informal phrase meaning someone or something looks messy, upset, or in poor condition.

What does it mean?

A right old state describes a person, place, or thing that looks untidy, emotional, damaged, or generally not in a good condition.

Is it positive or negative?

It is usually negative, though sometimes people say it jokingly or affectionately.

When do you use it?

Use it when someone looks exhausted or upset, or when a room, house, or object looks very messy.

Examples

Example 1: After the party, the kitchen was in a right old state.

Example 2: You should have seen me after the run - I was a right old state.

Question for you

When was the last time something around you was in a right old state?

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