ENGLISH
REFERENCE

dirty pool

idiom
Meaning

Foul play; misconduct; underhandedness.


Origin

disputed origin

Probably an allusion to failing to follow the rules when playing billiards. Compare not cricket.

Examples
SIMPLE

That was dirty pool, and you know it.

CONTEXTUAL

The other team hid our equipment before the match, which was clearly dirty pool.

COMPLEX

His decision to leak confidential documents to the press during the negotiation was widely condemned as dirty pool.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    air one's dirty laundry in public

    To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.

  2. 02

    air one's dirty linen in public

    Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.

  3. 03

    dirty laundry

    Unflattering or embarrassing facts, or questionable activities that one wants to remain secret, but which someone else may use as blackmail.

  4. 04

    dirty look

    An unpleasant or disdainful look or expression, often directed at someone.

  5. 05

    dirty money

    Money that is illegally gained, illegally transferred or illegally utilized, especially money gained through forgery, bribery, prostitution, money laundering, or theft.

  6. 06

    dirty word

    The name of a topic that a person prefers not to hear or discuss.

  7. 07

    dirty work

    One or more unpleasant tasks, assignments, or employment duties, especially those of a disreputable or illicit nature.

  8. 08

    do the dirty on

    To treat (someone) in an unfair manner; to cheat or betray.

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