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
"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
In March, Nestlé showed that it’s adroit enough to bounce back from some bad luck.
From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026
“I didn’t have a bad time on Epic,” Brock says, arguing with himself a little as he considers the pros and cons of indie versus major.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026
Dad begged her not to go because the storm looked like it was going to be bad.
From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold
Vocabulary lists containing bad
