A Right Old State
What does it mean?
Quick summary: A common informal phrase meaning someone or something looks messy, upset, or in poor condition.
A right old state describes a person, place, or thing that looks untidy, emotional, damaged, or generally not in a good condition.
REAL ENGLISH.
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?
Try saying your answer aloud, using the expression.
Practise it in a lesson
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