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bad
/bæːd/
The word serves as a broad, general-purpose descriptor for anything negative. It is often the first word learned to express dissatisfaction or disapproval, making it versatile but sometimes imprecise compared to words like 'atrocious', 'malicious', or 'toxic'.
When describing quality, it carries a subjective feeling of disappointment. When describing morality, it ranges from mild mischief ('a bad boy') to genuine villainy, depending on the intensity of the context.
In physical contexts, such as food or health, it signals a state of corruption or danger. There is a distinct shift from 'poor quality' (skill-based) to 'spoiled' (biological decay), though both fall under the umbrella of being 'not good'.
💬Casual Conversation
The energy of this report feels like a wilting lotus.
It's not 'wilting', Sterling. The numbers are just plain bad.
Meanings
Of poor quality; lacking in skill, value, or excellence.
The movie received bad reviews from most critics.
Evil, immoral, or wicked in character or effect.
He was known as a bad man who cheated his partners.
Examples
Collocations & Compounds
bad habit
A regular practice that is harmful or immoral.
bad breath
An unpleasant smell coming from a person's mouth.
bad influence
A person or thing that encourages others to behave immorally or poorly.
go bad
To become spoiled or decayed, typically referring to food.
bad timing
Occurring at an inappropriate or unfortunate moment.
Idioms & Sayings
bad blood
Feelings of hate or resentment between people due to past arguments.
bad egg
A person who is dishonest, immoral, or unreliable.
a bad apple
A person who is corrupt or a negative influence within a group.
bad taste
Showing a lack of sensitivity, appropriateness, or aesthetic judgment.
not half bad
Surprisingly good or quite impressive.
Etymology
Originates from Middle English 'badde', likely derived from Old English 'bæddel' (meaning a hermaphrodite or effeminate man), which evolved through a process of semantic broadening and pejoration to describe anything contrary to the norm, eventually becoming a general term for poor quality or moral wickedness by the 16th century.