Translation guide
Describes places or conditions that are extremely dirty, neglected, and unpleasant, often due to poverty or lack of care. Also used figuratively for morally repugnant situations.
Describe a physical environment that is filthy, run-down, and unpleasant, typically from poverty or neglect.
Describes a place or appearance that is dirty, messy, and gives an unpleasant feeling. Often used for rooms, clothing, or personal appearance.
Describe a situation, behavior, or motive that is morally degraded, sordid, or contemptible.
Means mean, base, or despicable. Used for actions or character that are morally low.
Directly translating 'squalid' as むさ苦しい or 汚らしい may sound too strong or judgmental in some contexts. For describing poor living conditions without moral judgment, consider using 劣悪な環境 (poor environment) or 貧しい生活 (impoverished life) instead.
His room was so squalid that I couldn't even sit down.
Emphasizes a dirty and repulsive appearance. Stronger than just 'dirty'; implies disgust.
The apartment was squalid and uninhabitable.
Means unsanitary or unclean. Often used for conditions that pose a health risk. Can describe places, objects, or people.
There are people living in squalid conditions.
Literally 'terribly dirty'. A straightforward description, but less nuanced than other options.
The walls were squalid and covered in mold.
His squalid motives were revealed.
Literally 'dirty', but often used figuratively for underhanded or unfair actions. Common in everyday speech.
I can't forgive using such squalid tactics.
Describes something shameful, wretched, or miserable, often with a nuance of pitifulness. Used for behavior or desires.
I saw a squalid obsession with money.
They live in squalid conditions.