Dropping litter

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What it really means

Dropping litter is frowned upon and can bring an on-the-spot fine from the council. Use a bin, or take rubbish home if there isn't one — common at busy times when bins overflow. This includes cigarette ends and chewing gum, which also count as litter.

Chinese explanation

乱扔垃圾会招人反感，还可能被地方政府当场罚款。请使用垃圾桶，没有桶就把垃圾带回家——高峰期垃圾桶溢满时很常见。烟头和嚼过的口香糖也算垃圾。

Example conversation

A: The bin's full — I'll just leave my cup here. B: Better take it with you; littering can actually get you fined.

A：垃圾桶满了——我就把杯子搁这儿吧。 B：还是带走吧；乱扔垃圾真的可能被罚款。

What you could say back

“Fair enough, I'll take it home.”

Related phrases

Bins and recycling Eating while walking down the street Can I drink alcohol in the park?

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Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team · Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake