bad

/bæd/
adjectiveBeginner
general

of poor quality or low standard

His performance in the exam was bad.

He did not perform well in the exam.

The weather is bad today.

The weather conditions are unfavorable.

💡

Often used to describe things that are unsatisfactory or unpleasant.

general

unpleasant or harmful

He has a bad habit of biting his nails.

He has an unpleasant habit of biting his nails.

The medicine has a bad taste.

The medicine tastes unpleasant.

💡

Used to describe things that cause discomfort or are harmful.

general

morally wrong or evil

He did a very bad thing.

He committed a morally wrong act.

She has a bad reputation.

She is known for her morally questionable actions.

💡

Used to describe actions or people that are morally wrong.

Collocations

bad luckunfortunate circumstancesbad newsunfavorable informationbad moodunpleasant or irritable state of mind

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

bad to the boneidiom
very wicked or evil
bad bloodidiom
hostility or resentment
bad vibesphrase
unpleasant or negative feelings

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

'Bad' is often used to describe things that are of poor quality or unpleasant. It can also describe morally wrong actions or people.

Comparative Forms

The comparative form is 'worse', and the superlative form is 'worst'. For example, 'This is worse than I thought' or 'That was the worst experience ever'.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

The meaning of 'bad' can vary depending on the context. It can describe physical conditions, moral qualities, or general unpleasantness.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'badde', possibly from Old Norse 'bath' (evil) or Old English 'bæddel' (effeminate man).

📝Usage Notes

The word 'bad' is very common and versatile, used to describe things that are of poor quality, unpleasant, or morally wrong. It can be used in various contexts, from everyday language to more formal settings.

Word Breakdown

bad
of poor quality or low standard
root
English Dictionary