Bad

Definition

Bad is an adjective describing something of poor quality, unfavorable, or undesirable. It can also refer to morally wrong or harmful actions. Informally, it can serve as a noun meaning a negative or harmful thing.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun (informal)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bæd/
• Respelling: BAD

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bæd/
• Respelling: BAD

Etymology

The word "bad" originated in Middle English, possibly derived from the Old English term "bæddel," which referred to an effeminate or morally weak person. Its current meaning evolved to describe poor quality or undesirable traits.

Derivatives

• Badness (noun)
• Badly (adverb)
• Worse (comparative adjective)
• Worst (superlative adjective)
• Badmouth (verb)

Synonyms

• Poor
• Unfavorable
• Inferior

Antonyms

• Good
• Excellent
• Positive

Usage

The term "bad" is widely used to describe anything that is of low quality, unfavorable, or morally wrong. For example, "He made a bad decision," or "The weather is bad today."

Related Terms

• Good: The opposite of bad; of high quality or favorable.
• Inferior: Lower in quality or status.
• Poor: Of low quality or standard.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Of poor quality or inferior: Describes something that lacks quality or effectiveness.
  • Example: "The movie received bad reviews."
• Morally wrong or evil: Refers to actions or behavior considered unethical or harmful.
  • Example: "Stealing is a bad thing to do."
• Unfavorable or unpleasant: Used to describe situations or conditions that are undesirable.
  • Example: "They had a bad day at work."

Noun (informal)

• A negative or harmful thing: Informally refers to something that causes harm or is undesirable.
  • Example: "We need to focus on the good, not the bad."