Useful English Word or Phrase to Boost Your English: Sketchy

What does it mean?

Sketchy is an informal adjective meaning doubtful, untrustworthy, potentially dangerous, or of poor quality.

Is it positive or negative?

It is strongly negative, implying suspicion or unreliability.

When do you use it?

Use it when describing people, places, or situations that feel unsafe, suspicious, or not fully reliable.

Examples

Example 1: I wouldn't walk through that alley late at night. It feels really sketchy.

Example 2: His whole story about where he was last night sounds pretty sketchy to me.

Question for you

Have you ever been somewhere that felt sketchy?

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