bad
Usage
What are other ways to say bad?
When describing things that are lacking in moral qualities or are actually vicious and reprehensible, bad is the broadest and simplest term: a bad man; bad habits. Evil applies to that which violates or leads to the violation of moral law: evil practices. Ill now appears mainly in certain fixed expressions, with a milder implication than that in evil: ill will; ill-natured. Wicked implies willful and determined doing of what is very wrong: a wicked plan.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Arteta confirmed Eze will miss the game through injury, but Odegaard and Timber are in contention to return, while Madueke's injury is not as bad as first feared and is a doubt.
From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026
“I just feel bad because Amanda knows that what she did was wrong, and she’s trying to come to terms with it, but she is not well.”
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026
The bad news is that valuations have been a much stronger predictor of subsequent 10-year returns.
From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026
“It felt like finally waking up from a bad dream,” she tells Charlie.
From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026
“Please! I’ve had bad news—oh please, don’t go away!”
From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom
From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.
