Top 68 Slang For Bad-Thing – Meaning & Usage

We’ve all encountered those not-so-pleasant situations in life, and sometimes, finding the right words to describe them can be a challenge. That’s why we’re here to help! Our team at Fluentslang has put together a list of the top slang terms for bad things that will have you laughing, cringing, and nodding your head in agreement. So buckle up and get ready to discover some creative ways to express your frustrations and vent about life’s little annoyances.

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1. My bad

This phrase is used to acknowledge responsibility or apologize for a mistake or wrongdoing. It is a casual way of accepting blame or expressing regret.

For example, if someone accidentally spills a drink, they might say, “Oops, my bad!”
If a person forgets to return a borrowed item, they could say, “Sorry, my bad. I’ll bring it back tomorrow.”
In a team setting, if someone makes an error, they might say, “I messed up, guys. My bad.”

2. Lame

This word is used to describe something that is unimpressive, unexciting, or disappointing. It can refer to a person, an event, or an object that fails to meet expectations or lacks excitement.

For instance, if a friend suggests a boring movie, you might respond, “Nah, that sounds lame.”
If someone cancels plans at the last minute, you could say, “That’s really lame, I was looking forward to it.”
In a conversation about a lackluster party, someone might comment, “The music was so lame, nobody was dancing.”

3. Bummer

This term is used to express sadness, frustration, or disappointment about a situation or event. It is often used to describe something that didn’t go as planned or didn’t meet expectations.

For example, if a friend cancels a trip, you might say, “That’s a bummer, I was really excited to go.”
If someone fails a test, you could say, “Sorry to hear that, what a bummer.”
In a conversation about a rainy day ruining outdoor plans, someone might say, “What a bummer, I was looking forward to hiking.”

4. Shady

This word is used to describe a person, place, or situation that seems dishonest, unreliable, or sketchy. It implies a lack of trustworthiness or integrity.

For instance, if someone offers you a deal that seems too good to be true, you might say, “That sounds shady, I wouldn’t trust it.”
If a friend starts hanging out with a questionable crowd, you could say, “Be careful, those people seem shady.”
In a discussion about a company with unethical practices, someone might comment, “Their business practices are really shady, I wouldn’t support them.”

5. Bail

This slang term is used to describe the act of leaving a situation or abandoning plans, often unexpectedly or without explanation.

For example, if someone decides not to attend a party they previously agreed to go to, they might say, “Sorry, I have to bail on the party.”
If a friend leaves a group outing early, you could say, “I can’t believe they bailed on us.”
In a conversation about someone flaking on a commitment, someone might comment, “They always bail at the last minute, it’s so frustrating.”

6. Ditch

To ditch something means to abandon or leave it behind, often without any intention of returning to it. This term is commonly used when talking about ending a relationship or leaving a situation.

For example, “She decided to ditch her toxic friend and surround herself with positive people.”
A person might say, “I’m going to ditch this boring party and go find something more exciting to do.”
In a conversation about quitting a job, someone might mention, “I’m thinking about ditching this job and starting my own business.”

7. Busted

To be busted means to be caught or discovered doing something wrong or illegal. It often implies facing consequences or being exposed for one’s actions.

For instance, “He was busted for stealing from the store and had to pay a fine.”
In a discussion about cheating in a game, someone might say, “If you get caught, you’ll definitely get busted.”
A person might warn their friend, “Be careful not to get busted by the teacher for cheating on the test.”

8. Lemon

A lemon refers to something that is of poor quality or unreliable, especially when talking about a vehicle or product that does not meet expectations.

For example, “That car turned out to be a lemon. It broke down after just a week.”
In a conversation about buying used electronics, someone might advise, “Be careful not to end up with a lemon.”
A person might complain, “I can’t believe I wasted my money on this lemon of a phone.”

9. Rip-off

A rip-off refers to a scam or an overpriced item that does not provide value for the money spent. It implies being deceived or taken advantage of.

For instance, “That designer handbag was a total rip-off. It fell apart after just a few uses.”
In a discussion about expensive concert tickets, someone might say, “I’m not paying that much for a ticket. It’s a rip-off.”
A person might warn their friend, “Don’t buy anything from that website. It’s known for selling rip-offs.”

10. Sketchy

Sketchy is used to describe something that seems suspicious or questionable. It implies a lack of trustworthiness or reliability.

For example, “I don’t want to go to that sketchy neighborhood at night.”
In a conversation about a business deal, someone might say, “The terms of the contract seem a bit sketchy to me.”
A person might warn their friend, “Be careful, that guy seems really sketchy. I wouldn’t trust him.”

11. Crappy

This term is used to describe something that is of low quality or undesirable. It can be used to refer to objects, situations, or experiences.

For example, “I bought this crappy phone and it stopped working after a week.”
A person might say, “The service at that restaurant was crappy, I would never go back.”
Another might complain, “I watched that movie and it was so crappy, I couldn’t even finish it.”

12. Trash

This term is used to describe something or someone that is of very poor quality or has no value. It can be used to express disapproval or disappointment.

For instance, “That movie was absolute trash, I wasted my money on it.”
A person might say, “Her taste in music is trash, she only listens to terrible songs.”
Another might comment, “The food at that restaurant is trash, I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone.”

13. Garbage

This term is used to describe something that is worthless or of poor quality. It can be used to express dissatisfaction or disappointment.

For example, “I can’t believe they are selling this garbage at such a high price.”
A person might say, “The customer service at that company is garbage, they never respond to complaints.”
Another might complain, “The quality of the product is garbage, it broke after just a few uses.”

14. Junk

This term is used to describe something that is considered worthless or useless. It can be used to refer to objects, ideas, or even people.

For instance, “I cleaned out my closet and threw away all the junk.”
A person might say, “Those old magazines are just junk, no one wants to read them.”
Another might comment, “The information in that report is junk, it’s not accurate or reliable.”

15. Screwed

This term is used to describe being in a difficult or unfavorable situation. It can be used to express frustration or a sense of being trapped.

For example, “I missed my flight and now I’m screwed, I have no way to get to my destination.”
A person might say, “I forgot to study for the test, I’m totally screwed.”
Another might comment, “If I don’t finish this project by tomorrow, I’m screwed, my boss will be angry.”

16. Messed up

To describe something that is not right or is in a state of chaos or disorder.

For example, “The party was a mess. The decorations were all messed up and the food was cold.”
A person might say, “I can’t believe he did that. It’s really messed up.”
Someone might comment, “The whole situation is just so messed up. I don’t know how we’ll fix it.”

17. Wack

Used to describe something that is strange, unusual, or of poor quality.

For instance, “That movie was wack. The plot didn’t make any sense.”
A person might say, “This party is wack. There’s no music and everyone looks bored.”
Someone might comment, “His fashion sense is always wack. He never matches his clothes.”

18. Whack

Used to describe something that is not right or is unfair.

For example, “The judge’s decision was whack. It didn’t consider all the evidence.”
A person might say, “That’s whack. I worked hard on that project and someone else took credit for it.”
Someone might comment, “The rules of this game are whack. They don’t make any sense.”

19. Crummy

Used to describe something that is of low quality or not enjoyable.

For instance, “The hotel room was crummy. The bed was uncomfortable and the bathroom was dirty.”
A person might say, “I had a crummy day. Everything went wrong.”
Someone might comment, “The food at that restaurant is crummy. I wouldn’t recommend it.”

20. Rotten

Used to describe something that is in a state of decay or is no longer fresh.

For example, “The fruit in the fridge is rotten. It’s all moldy.”
A person might say, “He has a rotten attitude. He’s always rude to everyone.”
Someone might comment, “The weather is rotten today. It’s raining and cold.”

21. Awful

This word is used to describe something that is extremely bad or unpleasant.

For example, “The food at that restaurant was awful, I couldn’t even finish my meal.”
In a review of a movie, someone might say, “The acting in this film was awful, I couldn’t believe how poorly it was done.”
A person might exclaim, “That’s an awful idea, it would never work!”

22. Terrible

When something is described as terrible, it means it is of very poor quality or extremely bad.

For instance, “I had a terrible day at work, everything went wrong.”
In a discussion about a sports team’s performance, someone might say, “The team had a terrible game, they couldn’t score any points.”
A person might comment, “The weather is terrible today, it’s raining heavily and very windy.”

23. Horrible

This word is used to describe something that is extremely unpleasant or disagreeable.

For example, “I had a horrible experience at the dentist, it was so painful.”
In a conversation about a scary movie, someone might say, “The movie was so horrible, it gave me nightmares.”
A person might exclaim, “The smell in here is horrible, I can’t stand it!”

24. Nasty

When something is described as nasty, it means it is disgusting or unpleasant.

For instance, “He left a nasty mess in the kitchen, it was really gross.”
In a discussion about a person’s behavior, someone might say, “He said some really nasty things to her, it was uncalled for.”
A person might comment, “The food at that restaurant was really nasty, I couldn’t eat it.”

25. Shitty

This word is used to describe something that is very bad or of poor quality.

For example, “I had a shitty day at work, nothing went right.”
In a conversation about a broken appliance, someone might say, “This is such a shitty toaster, it never toasts evenly.”
A person might exclaim, “The service at that restaurant was so shitty, I’m never going back!”

26. Wretched

This word is used to describe something that is extremely unpleasant, of poor quality, or unfortunate. It conveys a sense of deep dissatisfaction or unhappiness.

For example, “I had a wretched day at work today.”
A person might describe a terrible movie by saying, “That film was absolutely wretched.”
Another might express their disappointment with a meal by saying, “The food at that restaurant was wretched.”

27. Dismal

This word is used to describe something that is depressing, bleak, or lacking in hope. It often refers to a situation or condition that is unfavorable or unwelcome.

For instance, “The weather forecast for the weekend looks dismal.”
A person might describe a failing business by saying, “Their sales numbers are dismal.”
Another might express their disappointment with a performance by saying, “The play was a dismal failure.”

28. Lousy

This word is used to describe something that is of very poor quality, unpleasant, or disappointing. It conveys a strong sense of dissatisfaction or annoyance.

For example, “I had a lousy experience at that restaurant.”
A person might describe a subpar performance by saying, “That was a lousy attempt.”
Another might express their frustration with a faulty product by saying, “This phone is lousy; it keeps freezing.”

29. Crap

This word is used to describe something that is of extremely poor quality, worthless, or insignificant. It is often used as a more casual and slightly less offensive alternative to stronger profanities.

For instance, “I can’t believe they’re charging so much for this crap.”
A person might describe a disappointing movie by saying, “That film was a load of crap.”
Another might express their annoyance with a broken item by saying, “This thing is crap; it broke after one use.”

30. Abysmal

This word is used to describe something that is extremely bad, appalling, or of the lowest quality. It conveys a sense of deep disappointment or shock.

For example, “The team’s performance in the game was abysmal.”
A person might describe a disastrous event by saying, “The party was an abysmal failure.”
Another might express their frustration with a poorly written book by saying, “The writing in this novel is abysmal.”

31. Atrocious

Describes something extremely bad or of very poor quality. It implies a level of shock or disbelief at how bad something is.

For example, “The food at that restaurant was atrocious. I couldn’t even finish my meal.”
A person might say, “The service at that hotel was atrocious. They didn’t even apologize for the inconvenience.”
Another might comment, “The movie was so atrocious that I walked out halfway through.”

32. Pathetic

Used to describe something or someone that is extremely sad, weak, or lacking in ability or worth. It conveys a sense of disappointment or contempt.

For instance, “He made a pathetic attempt at singing. It was painful to listen to.”
A person might say, “I can’t believe how pathetic that excuse was. They clearly didn’t even try.”
Another might comment, “The team’s performance was pathetic. They didn’t even put up a fight.”

33. Shoddy

Refers to something that is of low quality or poorly constructed. It suggests a lack of care or attention to detail.

For example, “The shoddy craftsmanship of that furniture is evident in its wobbly legs and uneven surface.”
A person might say, “I paid good money for this product, but it turned out to be shoddy and fell apart after a few uses.”
Another might comment, “The company’s customer service is shoddy. They never respond to inquiries or resolve issues.”

34. Rancid

Describes something that is rotten or has gone bad, typically referring to food or other perishable items. It conveys a strong sense of disgust.

For instance, “I accidentally left the milk out overnight, and now it smells rancid.”
A person might say, “I took a bite of that sandwich and immediately spit it out. The meat tasted rancid.”
Another might comment, “The smell coming from the garbage can is absolutely rancid. I need to take it out immediately.”

35. Flawed

Refers to something that has imperfections or defects, making it less than ideal or not functioning properly. It suggests a lack of perfection or completeness.

For example, “The design of that building is flawed. It doesn’t meet safety standards.”
A person might say, “The argument presented in that article is flawed. It’s based on faulty assumptions.”
Another might comment, “The plan to solve the problem is flawed. It doesn’t address the root causes.”

36. Defective

This term is used to describe something that is not functioning properly or is flawed in some way.

For example, “The car I bought turned out to be defective, and I had to get a refund.”
In a discussion about electronics, someone might say, “I had to return my defective phone for a replacement.”
A person might describe a poorly made product as “cheap and defective.”

37. Useless

This word is used to describe something that is not helpful or does not serve a useful function.

For instance, “I tried using that app, but it’s completely useless.”
In a conversation about a broken tool, someone might say, “This wrench is useless; it can’t even turn a bolt.”
A person might describe a pointless task as “a waste of time and completely useless.”

38. Dreadful

This term is used to describe something that is very bad, terrible, or causing great fear or apprehension.

For example, “The weather was dreadful; it rained all day.”
In a discussion about a disappointing movie, someone might say, “The acting in that film was dreadful.”
A person might describe a horrifying experience as “absolutely dreadful.”

39. Miserable

This word is used to describe a state of extreme unhappiness, discomfort, or suffering.

For instance, “I felt miserable after failing my exam.”
In a conversation about a terrible job, someone might say, “I was miserable working there; the hours were long and the pay was low.”
A person might describe a gloomy, rainy day as “miserable weather.”

40. Cringe-worthy

This term is used to describe something that is so embarrassing or awkward that it makes you cringe or feel uncomfortable.

For example, “That joke he told was so cringe-worthy; nobody laughed.”
In a discussion about an awkward social interaction, someone might say, “It was a cringe-worthy moment when I accidentally spilled my drink.”
A person might describe a poorly executed dance performance as “cringe-worthy.”

41. Rubbish

This term is used to describe something of poor quality or little value. It can also refer to something that is considered worthless or useless.

For example, “That movie was complete rubbish, I can’t believe I wasted my time watching it.”
In a discussion about a disappointing product, someone might say, “The new smartphone is just rubbish, it keeps freezing and crashing.”
A person might describe a messy room by saying, “My bedroom is a complete rubbish heap right now.”

42. Shabby

This term is used to describe something that is in poor condition, often due to age or neglect. It can also refer to something that is shoddy or of low quality.

For instance, “The hotel room was shabby and in desperate need of renovation.”
In a conversation about fashion, someone might say, “I can’t believe she wore that shabby old dress to the party.”
A person might describe a rundown neighborhood by saying, “The houses in this area are all shabby and falling apart.”

43. Filthy

This term is used to describe something that is covered in dirt, grime, or other unpleasant substances. It can also refer to something that is morally or ethically corrupt.

For example, “The public restroom was absolutely filthy, I couldn’t even use it.”
In a discussion about a messy kitchen, someone might say, “The dishes in the sink were so filthy, I had to wash them before I could cook.”
A person might describe a vulgar joke by saying, “That comedian told some really filthy jokes during the show.”

44. Vile

This term is used to describe something that is morally offensive, repulsive, or repugnant. It can also refer to something that is extremely bad or of low quality.

For instance, “His behavior towards others was absolutely vile, he had no respect for anyone.”
In a conversation about a terrible meal, someone might say, “The food was so vile, I couldn’t even finish it.”
A person might describe a horrific crime by saying, “The details of the murder were absolutely vile, it’s hard to comprehend such cruelty.”

45. Gross

This term is used to describe something that is extremely unpleasant, offensive, or off-putting. It can also refer to something that is excessive or exaggerated.

For example, “I can’t believe you’re eating that gross sandwich, it looks disgusting.”
In a discussion about a disgusting smell, someone might say, “The garbage can was so gross, I had to hold my breath.”
A person might describe a disturbing image by saying, “I saw a really gross video online, it made me feel sick.”

46. Offensive

This term refers to something that is highly disrespectful, hurtful, or inappropriate. It can be used to describe words, actions, or behavior that is considered offensive to a particular group or individual.

For example, a person might say, “His comments about race were incredibly offensive.”
In a discussion about political correctness, someone might argue, “Freedom of speech should not be used as an excuse for offensive language.”
A person might warn, “Be careful with your jokes, they can easily be offensive to someone.”

47. Disgusting

Something that is disgusting is extremely unpleasant, repulsive, or offensive to the senses. It can refer to things that are physically or morally repugnant.

For instance, a person might say, “The smell coming from the garbage can is absolutely disgusting.”
In a conversation about food, someone might comment, “I find mushrooms disgusting, I can’t stand the texture.”
A person might express their disgust at a behavior by saying, “I find animal cruelty absolutely disgusting.”

48. Repugnant

This term describes something that is extremely distasteful, offensive, or objectionable. It can be used to indicate a strong aversion or disgust towards something.

For example, a person might say, “I find his views on gender equality repugnant.”
In a discussion about ethics, someone might argue, “Any form of discrimination is morally repugnant.”
A person might express their repugnance towards a certain behavior by saying, “I find cheating in relationships repugnant.”

49. Revolting

Something that is revolting is extremely disgusting, repulsive, or offensive. It can evoke a strong feeling of disgust or revolt.

For instance, a person might say, “The sight of maggots in the garbage is absolutely revolting.”
In a conversation about horror movies, someone might comment, “That scene was so revolting, I had to look away.”
A person might express their revulsion towards a certain behavior by saying, “The way he treats animals is absolutely revolting.”

50. Sickening

This term describes something that is extremely unpleasant, disgusting, or repulsive. It can evoke a strong feeling of nausea or sickness.

For example, a person might say, “The smell coming from the dumpster is sickening.”
In a conversation about violence, someone might comment, “The sight of blood makes me feel sickening.”
A person might express their disgust towards a certain behavior by saying, “His lack of empathy is sickening.”

51. Despicable

Despicable is a strong adjective used to describe something or someone that is extremely bad, evil, or deserving of contempt. It is often used to express strong disapproval or disgust.

For example, “His despicable actions towards the vulnerable population were widely condemned.”
In a discussion about a corrupt politician, someone might say, “His behavior was absolutely despicable.”
A person describing a heinous crime might use the term, “The despicable act shocked the entire community.”

52. Loathsome

Loathsome is an adjective that describes something or someone that is extremely unpleasant, disgusting, or detestable. It is often used to convey a strong feeling of dislike or revulsion.

For instance, “The loathsome smell coming from the garbage bin made everyone gag.”
When discussing a despicable character in a book or movie, someone might say, “He was truly a loathsome villain.”
A person expressing their disdain for a particular food might say, “I find the taste of durian loathsome.”

53. Disgraceful

Disgraceful is an adjective used to describe something or someone that is deeply shameful, dishonorable, or unacceptable. It implies a violation of moral or social standards.

For example, “His behavior at the charity event was disgraceful and embarrassed his family.”
When discussing a politician’s unethical actions, someone might say, “It’s a disgraceful abuse of power.”
A person expressing their disappointment in a sports team’s performance might say, “Their performance was absolutely disgraceful.”

54. Deplorable

Deplorable is an adjective that describes something or someone that is deserving strong condemnation or censure. It implies a deep sense of disapproval and often refers to actions or behavior that is morally reprehensible.

For instance, “The conditions in the factory were deplorable, with workers being subjected to long hours and unsafe working conditions.”
When discussing a heinous crime, someone might say, “The perpetrator’s actions were absolutely deplorable.”
A person expressing their outrage at a company’s unethical practices might say, “Their treatment of workers is deplorable.”

55. Detestable

Detestable is an adjective used to describe something or someone that is intensely disliked or abhorred. It conveys a strong feeling of hatred or repulsion.

For example, “His detestable behavior towards his employees led to high turnover rates.”
When discussing a character in a movie or book that is universally despised, someone might say, “He was truly a detestable villain.”
A person expressing their strong dislike for a particular type of music might say, “I find rap music detestable.”

56. Vicious

Vicious is used to describe something that is extremely cruel or violent in nature.

For example, “The vicious attack left the victim with severe injuries.”
A person might say, “That dog has a vicious temperament, so be careful.”
In a discussion about crime, someone might mention, “The suspect has a history of vicious behavior.”

57. Malevolent

Malevolent refers to something or someone that has a strong desire to cause harm or evil.

For instance, “The malevolent witch cast a spell on the village.”
A person might say, “He has a malevolent intent, so watch out for him.”
In a discussion about villains, someone might mention, “The malevolent character is the main antagonist in the story.”

58. Sinister

Sinister is used to describe something that is threatening, evil, or foreboding.

For example, “The dark alley had a sinister atmosphere.”
A person might say, “I had a sinister feeling that something bad was going to happen.”
In a discussion about horror movies, someone might mention, “The sinister presence in the film created a sense of dread.”

59. Diabolical

Diabolical refers to something or someone that is extremely wicked, evil, or devilish in nature.

For instance, “The diabolical plan involved stealing the crown jewels.”
A person might say, “He came up with a diabolical scheme to deceive his enemies.”
In a discussion about villains, someone might mention, “The diabolical mastermind is always one step ahead of the heroes.”

60. Distressing

Distressing refers to something that causes worry, discomfort, or emotional pain.

For example, “The distressing news left everyone in shock.”
A person might say, “It’s distressing to see so many people suffering.”
In a discussion about personal experiences, someone might mention, “I went through a distressing situation that affected me deeply.”

61. Pestering

Pestering refers to the act of continuously bothering or annoying someone, often in a persistent and irritating manner.

For example, “Stop pestering me with all these questions!”
A parent might say to their child, “Quit pestering your sister.”
In a workplace setting, a coworker might complain, “She’s always pestering me to do her work for her.”

62. Bothersome

Bothersome is a term used to describe something or someone that causes annoyance or irritation.

For instance, “That loud construction noise is so bothersome.”
A person might say, “I find it bothersome when people chew with their mouths open.”
In a group setting, someone might comment, “His constant interruptions are really bothersome.”

63. Infuriating

Infuriating refers to something that causes intense anger or frustration.

For example, “It’s infuriating when someone cuts in line.”
A person might say, “The constant delays and cancellations of my flight were infuriating.”
In a discussion about customer service, someone might share, “Dealing with rude customer service representatives is incredibly infuriating.”

64. Exasperating

Exasperating is used to describe something or someone that causes irritation or annoyance, often to the point of frustration.

For instance, “Her constant lateness is exasperating.”
A person might say, “I find it exasperating when people don’t listen to what I’m saying.”
In a group project, someone might express, “His lack of contribution is exasperating.”

65. Grating

Grating is a term used to describe something that is irritating or annoying, often due to a harsh or unpleasant quality.

For example, “The sound of nails on a chalkboard is grating.”
A person might say, “Her constant complaining is really grating on my nerves.”
In a discussion about music, someone might comment, “I find that style of singing to be grating.”

66. Nerve-wracking

This term describes something that causes extreme stress or anxiety. It refers to a situation or experience that makes your nerves feel like they are being twisted or strained.

For example, “Giving a presentation in front of a large crowd can be nerve-wracking.”
A person might say, “Waiting for the exam results was nerve-wracking.”
Another might describe a roller coaster ride as “nerve-wracking but exhilarating.”

67. Hair-raising

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely scary or causes great fear. It implies that the experience is so intense that it makes your hair stand on end.

For instance, “The horror movie had several hair-raising moments.”
A person might recount a hair-raising encounter with a wild animal.
Another might describe a near-death experience as “truly hair-raising.”

68. Disturbing

This word is used to describe something that is unsettling or causes a feeling of discomfort. It implies that the thing being described is not right or goes against the norm.

For example, “The documentary showed disturbing footage of animal cruelty.”
A person might say, “The news report about the crime was deeply disturbing.”
Another might describe a disturbing dream they had.