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bad

[bad] / bæd /










ADJECTIVE
(informal) impressively tough or skillful
Synonyms
Antonyms


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.

GLP-1 weight-loss drugs have generally been seen as bad news for restaurant chains — but maybe not for Cheesecake Factory, thanks in part to its gargantuan menu.

From MarketWatch • May 14, 2026

Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad, Edith’s father suggested, just a bit of work while waiting for the end of the war.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

Most of their songs are about things to eat, but dwelling on it leaves a bad taste in the band members’ mouths.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2026

That could be bad news for many bond investors since prices go down as rates go up.

From Barron's • May 13, 2026

And it was not so bad at first.

From "Woodsong" by Gary Paulsen




Vocabulary lists containing bad


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