# sketchy

/ˈskɛtʃi/ (US) · /skˈɛtʃi/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sketchy
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

something that feels unsafe, dishonest, or not quite right. You use this when you don't trust a person or a place.

For teachers: arousing suspicion or suggesting a lack of safety or honesty. Often used to describe environments or individuals that appear unreliable or potentially dangerous.

## Examples

- I didn't stay long because the neighborhood felt a bit sketchy.
- The website looked sketchy, so I decided not to enter my credit card details.
- While the initial proposal seemed sound, the lack of transparent financial records made the entire investment opportunity feel incredibly sketchy to the board of directors.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows a linking verb like 'feel', 'look', or 'seem'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.