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.
彼の卑劣な動機が明らかになった。
His squalid motives were revealed.
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.
彼らは劣悪な環境で暮らしている。
They live in squalid conditions.
彼の部屋はむさ苦しくて、とても座れなかった。
His room was so squalid that I couldn't even sit down.
Emphasizes a dirty and repulsive appearance. Stronger than just 'dirty'; implies disgust.
そのアパートは汚らしくて、住める状態ではなかった。
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.
不潔な環境で生活している人々がいる。
There are people living in squalid conditions.
Literally 'terribly dirty'. A straightforward description, but less nuanced than other options.
壁はひどく汚れていて、カビが生えていた。
The walls were squalid and covered in mold.
Literally 'dirty', but often used figuratively for underhanded or unfair actions. Common in everyday speech.
そんな汚い手を使うなんて許せない。
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.
金に執着する浅ましい姿を見た。
I saw a squalid obsession with money.