dirty work

noun

1. disagreeable, often tedious tasks.

2. any illegal or dishonest dealing.

Idioms and Phrases

An unpleasant, distasteful, or thankless task or job. For example, Jane complained that she had to do all the dirty work while her colleagues took long vacations. [First half of 1900s]

Example Sentences

“He comes in … being able to do the tough things — the dirty work.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

This Victor does his own dirty work and what goes wrong is his fault.

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Ekitike's contribution deserves a deeper look because he is a tireless nuisance to opposition defences, willing to do the dirty work as well as grab the goalscoring glory.

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He was more than willing to do the dirty work when required.

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Instead, Leeds showed other qualities they will require this season as they dug deep, did the dirty work - albeit with little or no threat from a dreadful Everton - and eventually claimed the win with that dramatic late twist.

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