shady
- 01 B1 Intermediate
protected from direct sunlight by trees, buildings, or other objects.
providing or situated in shade; sheltered from direct sunlight.
Simple“We found a shady spot under a large oak tree to have our picnic.”
In context“The garden features several shady alcoves where delicate ferns can thrive away from the harsh afternoon sun.”
UsageOften used to describe outdoor locations or paths.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
seeming dishonest, illegal, or untrustworthy.
of questionable honesty or legality; disreputable in character or conduct.
Simple“I decided not to buy the phone because the seller seemed a bit shady.”
In context“The company was investigated after several shady financial transactions were discovered by the internal auditors.”
Teacher's tipIn modern slang, 'throwing shade' is a related idiom meaning to publicly show contempt or disrespect for someone.
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
acting in a way that is mean, rude, or unfair to someone.
characterised by unkindness, spite, or unfair treatment of others.
Simple“It was really shady of him to cancel our plans at the last minute without telling me.”
In context“The way she excluded her former best friend from the party was considered quite shady by the rest of the group.”
From shade + -y. Compare Saterland Frisian skaadich, skaddich (“shady”), German schattig (“shady”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.