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.
Current and former government officials familiar with the companies’ environmental record called them routine bad actors.
From Salon • Jun. 10, 2026
Horton says that situation is bad for competition.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026
"I wasn't sleeping because I had lots of luggage and King's Cross is bad for thieves," the 31-year-old says.
From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026
One explanation has been gaining traction, though, and it’s bad news for producers: The world may be figuring out how to get by with less oil.
From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026
The Soul-Eaters, like half-glimpsed shadows in a bad dream.
From "Wolf Brother" by Michelle Paver
Vocabulary lists containing bad
