Synonyms for
Bad
Definition
not good; unpleasant; harmful
Synonyms & similar words
badly
unsound
defective
uncollectible
speculative
big
goodness
sorry
unfit
forged
unregretful
good
highrisk
risky
tough
spoilt
badness
spoiled
regretful
awful
terrible
horrible
poor
low-quality
substandard
defective
faulty
inferior
unsatisfactory
unpleasant
disagreeable
unfortunate
harmful
negative
damaging
deleterious
toxic
dangerous
evil
Synonyms by register
Formal
Antonyms
Common collocations
- bad luck
- bad mood
- bad weather
- bad idea
- bad habit
- bad influence
- bad reputation
Word family
Usage note
While 'bad' can be used informally, its formal synonyms often carry more specific meanings. Be mindful of the context when choosing a synonym.
Compare "bad" with another word →
Example sentences
- The milk is bad and shouldn't be drunk.
- The storm was so bad that the power went out.
- Getting a bad grade on a test can be discouraging.
- The bad smell from the trash made me hold my breath.
- He had a bad day at work and didn't want to talk about it.
Quotes
Believe nothing you hear, and only one half that you see.
I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.
The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.