dodgy
adjective · casual
Suspicious, not trustworthy, or poor quality.
How Aussies use it
- That website looks a bit dodgy.
- The car's brakes are dodgy, get them checked.
How to pronounce ‘dodgy’
Say it like this: DOJ-ee
‘dodgy’ in a conversation
Priya: This rental ad wants the bond before I see the flat.
Sam: That's dodgy. Don't pay anything until you've inspected it.
Good to know
Useful for scams: if an offer looks dodgy, it probably is.
A common mistake
It describes things or people that seem untrustworthy. It isn't a strong insult.
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use suspicious, unreliable instead.
Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.
Quick check
What does ‘dodgy’ mean?
- Eager, interested, wanting to do something.
- Very busy, or going as fast as possible.
- Suspicious, not trustworthy, or poor quality.
Show the answer
C. Suspicious, not trustworthy, or poor quality.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'dodgy' mean in Australia?
Suspicious, not trustworthy, or poor quality. Useful for scams: if an offer looks dodgy, it probably is.
Can I say 'dodgy' at work?
With workmates, yes. 'dodgy' is fine in a chat at smoko or a casual message, but don't use it with clients, in formal emails, or in the PTE and IELTS writing tests.
How do you pronounce 'dodgy'?
Say it like this: DOJ-ee. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.