The phrase “(as) common as dirt” is used to describe someone or something that is considered vulgar, ill-mannered, or socially inappropriate. It conveys the idea that the person or behavior in question is unrefined, lacking class, or offensive in a way that is universally acknowledged. Like dirt, which is ubiquitous and unremarkable, the term implies a low social standing or undesirable behavior.
What does this idiom mean?
Definitions:
- “(As) common as dirt”: This idiomatic expression is used to describe a person who is perceived as uncouth, vulgar, or lacking refinement. It can also refer to behavior or actions that are considered socially inappropriate or disrespectful.
Examples of usage
Describing a Person (vulgar or ill-mannered):
“Did you notice Mr. Jones blowing his nose into the linen napkin at dinner? I’m not surprised. Everyone knows that the Joneses are as common as dirt.”
“Despite Jane’s efforts to imitate the manners of the upper class, the town’s leading families still considered her common as dirt.”
Describing behavior (vulgar or inappropriate):
“His loud, offensive remarks made him seem as common as dirt. People just couldn’t tolerate it.”
“She was as common as dirt when she barged into the meeting uninvited and interrupted everyone.”
Describing a lack of refinement or sophistication:
“Even though he’s wealthy, his manners are as common as dirt. He’s never learned how to behave properly in polite society.”
“That kind of language is as common as dirt—no one with any taste would ever speak like that.”
How to use this idiom
To describe people who are perceived as unrefined:
“Their family has always been as common as dirt. They’ve never fit in with the more sophisticated crowd.”
“She tried to act like she was from high society, but everyone could tell she was as common as dirt.”
To describe vulgar or ill-mannered behavior:
“It’s as common as dirt to interrupt someone during a conversation without any regard for manners.”
“He made a joke that was as common as dirt, and no one laughed because it was in such poor taste.”
To describe something low-class or offensive:
“The way he treats women is as common as dirt. I’m not surprised he doesn’t have any real friends.”
“I can’t believe they would serve food like that at such a fancy event. It was as common as dirt.”
Conclusion
The idiom “(as) common as dirt” is a strong, negative expression used to describe someone or something that is seen as vulgar, ill-mannered, or lacking in class. It implies a level of social unacceptability and is often used to criticize both people and their behavior. This idiom can be harsh and should be used with care, as it can be seen as derogatory or insulting.
