How to Say “Gross” in Navajo

By Douglas Juan • Updated October 4, 2026

yichʼíiʼgo

The English phrase 'gross' can be translated into Navajo as yichʼíiʼgo.

The word yichʼíiʼgo is used as an adjective to describe something that causes disgust.

Meaning: causing disgust (adj)

Did you know?

While yichʼíiʼgo describes something gross, Navajo has different specific terms for disgust depending on whether the source is a smell, a taste or a sight.
The use of the 'chʼ' sound in yichʼíiʼgo involves an ejective consonant, which requires a sudden burst of air from the glottis.
Because Navajo is a verb-heavy language, saying something is 'gross' is linguistically closer to saying it 'acts in a disgusting manner' than simply saying it 'is gross'.

Example conversation

Jessica and Brandon are looking at some old food in the fridge.

Jessica

Hózhóogo yichʼíiʼgo.
It is gross to look at.
Brandon

Ááʼá, tʼáá yichʼíiʼgo.
Yeah, it's really gross.
Jessica

Díísááʼ ditsʼaʼ.
Throw it away now.
Brandon

Yáʼátʼééh, díí tʼáá yichʼíiʼgo.
Okay, this is just too gross.

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About The Author

Douglas Juan

Hello, I am Douglas, an absolute Navajo language enthusiast. My passion for this beautiful language, coupled with my love for sharing knowledge, has inspired me to write numerous guides on common phrases and words. I enjoy exploring words from "Angel" to "Yucca" and everything in between. In my leisure time, you'll often find me experimenting with traditional Navajo recipes, strolling amidst nature, or enjoying a robust cup of traditional Navajo tea. Apache is spoken not far from Navajo, and it has become another language close to my heart, so you will now find my guides to Apache here too. Haash yinilyeii (that's how I say 'that's me' in Navajo)!

Douglas JuanHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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