Top 52 Slang For Negative – Meaning & Usage

Negativity can sometimes feel overwhelming, but it’s always good to have the right words to express how we feel. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top slang terms for negative. From describing a disappointing situation to expressing frustration, we’ve got you covered. So, if you’re ready to expand your vocabulary and add some flair to your conversations, keep reading!

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1. Bummer

This term is used to describe a disappointing or unfortunate situation or event.

For example, “It’s such a bummer that the concert got cancelled.”
If someone hears bad news, they might say, “That’s a real bummer.”
When plans fall through, a person might sigh and say, “Well, that’s a bummer.”

2. Buzzkill

A buzzkill refers to a person or thing that dampens or ruins the excitement or enjoyment of a situation.

For instance, “Don’t invite John to the party, he’s such a buzzkill.”
If someone brings up a serious topic during a lighthearted conversation, they might be accused of being a buzzkill.
When someone spoils a surprise or reveals a secret, they might be called a buzzkill.

3. Debbie Downer

Debbie Downer is a term used to describe someone who always has a negative outlook or constantly brings down the mood.

For example, “Every time I try to be positive, she comes in like a Debbie Downer.”
If someone constantly complains and focuses on the negative, they might be labeled a Debbie Downer.
When someone refuses to see the bright side of a situation, they might be accused of being a Debbie Downer.

4. Gloomy

Gloomy is used to describe something that is sad, depressing, or lacking in brightness or cheerfulness.

For instance, “The weather is so gloomy today, it’s been raining all day.”
If someone is feeling down and not their usual self, they might say, “I’m feeling a bit gloomy today.”
When a person is surrounded by negativity and can’t find any positivity, they might describe their situation as gloomy.

5. Down in the dumps

Being down in the dumps means feeling sad, depressed, or in a low mood.

For example, “Ever since she lost her job, she’s been feeling down in the dumps.”
If someone is going through a tough time and feeling down, they might say, “I’ve been feeling really down in the dumps lately.”
When someone is experiencing a period of sadness or disappointment, they might describe themselves as being down in the dumps.

6. Grumpy

This word is used to describe someone who is constantly in a bad mood or easily irritated. It can also refer to someone who is pessimistic or always sees the negative side of things.

For example, “Don’t mind him, he’s just grumpy because he didn’t get enough sleep.”
A person might say, “My boss is always grumpy in the mornings, so I try to avoid talking to him until he’s had his coffee.”
Another might comment, “She’s been grumpy ever since she found out she didn’t get the promotion.”

7. Negative Nancy

This term is used to describe a person who is constantly negative, pessimistic, or always finds something to complain about. It is often used in a lighthearted or joking manner.

For instance, “Here comes Negative Nancy, always bringing down the mood.”
A person might say, “I try to avoid hanging out with Negative Nancy because she always finds something to complain about.”
Another might comment, “Don’t be such a Negative Nancy, try to look on the bright side for once.”

8. Party pooper

This phrase is used to describe someone who dampens the mood or spoils the fun in a social gathering or event. It refers to a person who is unenthusiastic or disapproving of the festivities.

For example, “Don’t invite him to the party, he’s such a party pooper.”
A person might say, “She always finds a reason to leave early and be a party pooper.”
Another might comment, “Don’t be a party pooper, let’s enjoy ourselves and have a good time.”

9. Wet blanket

This term is used to describe a person who discourages or dampens the enthusiasm or excitement of others. It refers to someone who spoils the mood or brings down the energy in a situation.

For instance, “She’s such a wet blanket, she never wants to join in on the fun.”
A person might say, “Every time we suggest doing something fun, he acts like a wet blanket and ruins the plans.”
Another might comment, “Don’t be a wet blanket, let’s enjoy ourselves and make the most of the day.”

10. Killjoy

This word is used to describe a person who ruins the enjoyment or pleasure of others. It refers to someone who takes away the fun or excitement from a situation.

For example, “He’s such a killjoy, he always finds a way to ruin the mood.”
A person might say, “Every time we’re having a good time, she comes in and acts like a killjoy.”
Another might comment, “Don’t be a killjoy, let’s enjoy ourselves and have some fun.”

11. Naysayer

A naysayer is someone who consistently expresses negativity or doubt, often in response to new ideas or plans. The term is used to describe someone who is always skeptical or unwilling to believe in the success or validity of something.

For example, “Don’t listen to the naysayers, follow your dreams.”
In a discussion about a new business venture, someone might say, “There are always naysayers who doubt your ability to succeed.”
A person expressing frustration with constant negativity might say, “I can’t stand being around naysayers who bring everyone down.”

12. Sourpuss

A sourpuss is a term used to describe someone who is consistently grumpy, negative, or easily annoyed. It refers to a person who always seems to have a sour or unfriendly expression on their face.

For instance, “Don’t mind him, he’s just a sourpuss.”
In a conversation about a colleague, someone might say, “She’s such a sourpuss, always complaining about everything.”
A person might describe their own mood by saying, “I woke up feeling like a sourpuss today.”

13. Debbie-downer

A Debbie-downer is someone who consistently brings down the mood or dampens the enthusiasm of others. The term is often used to describe someone who always focuses on the negative aspects of a situation.

For example, “Don’t be a Debbie-downer, let’s try to enjoy ourselves.”
In a discussion about a fun event, someone might say, “We need to avoid inviting any Debbie-downers.”
A person might describe a friend who always ruins the mood by saying, “She’s such a Debbie-downer, she can never just enjoy herself.”

14. Pessimist

A pessimist is someone who consistently expects the worst outcome or has a negative outlook on life. The term is used to describe someone who always sees the negative side of things, even when there may be positive aspects.

For instance, “He’s such a pessimist, he never believes anything good will happen.”
In a discussion about a challenging situation, someone might say, “We need to stay positive and not let the pessimists bring us down.”
A person might describe their own tendency to think negatively by saying, “I know I’m a pessimist, but I can’t help it sometimes.”

15. Whiner

A whiner is someone who consistently complains or expresses dissatisfaction about various aspects of life. The term is used to describe someone who often focuses on their own problems or grievances, often in a repetitive or annoying manner.

For example, “Stop being such a whiner and find a solution.”
In a conversation about a friend, someone might say, “She’s always been a bit of a whiner, never satisfied with anything.”
A person might describe their own tendency to complain by saying, “I know I can be a whiner sometimes, but I’m working on it.”

16. Negative Nellie

A “Negative Nellie” is a term used to describe someone who always has a negative outlook or attitude. It is often used in a lighthearted or playful manner.

For example, if someone complains about the weather, another person might say, “Don’t be such a Negative Nellie!”
In a group setting, someone might joke, “We need to keep the Negative Nellies out of this discussion.”
A person might self-identify as a Negative Nellie and say, “I’m known for being a bit of a pessimist, but I’m working on it!”

17. Sour grapes

When someone shows bitterness or resentment towards something they cannot have or achieve, it is often referred to as “sour grapes.” The term comes from Aesop’s fable “The Fox and the Grapes.”

For instance, if someone says, “I didn’t want that promotion anyway. It’s probably a lot more work,” they might be accused of having sour grapes.
In a conversation about a successful person, someone might comment, “I sense a hint of sour grapes in your tone.”
A person might use the term self-reflectively and say, “I need to let go of my sour grapes and be happy for others’ success.”

18. Grouch

A “grouch” is a term used to describe someone who is consistently irritable, grumpy, or easily annoyed. It is often used in a light-hearted or affectionate way.

For example, if someone is in a bad mood, another person might teasingly say, “Someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed. Don’t be such a grouch!”
In a playful argument, someone might say, “You’re just being a grouch because you’re hungry.”
A person might self-identify as a grouch and say, “I’m not a morning person. I’m a certified grouch until I’ve had my coffee.”

19. Miserable

The term “miserable” is used to describe someone who is extremely unhappy, discontent, or in a state of suffering. It can also refer to a situation or experience that is particularly unpleasant.

For instance, if someone is going through a difficult breakup, they might say, “I’ve been feeling miserable lately.”
In a conversation about a challenging task, someone might comment, “This project is making me miserable.”
A person might express their feelings and say, “I hate my job. It’s making me miserable.”

20. Cynic

A “cynic” is someone who habitually doubts, questions, or distrusts the motives or sincerity of others. It is often used to describe someone who is skeptical or has a pessimistic view of human nature.

For example, if someone is hesitant to believe a positive news story, another person might say, “Don’t be such a cynic.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might comment, “I’m a bit of a cynic when it comes to promises made by politicians.”
A person might self-identify as a cynic and say, “I’ve become a cynic after being let down so many times.”

21. Scrooge

This term is derived from the character Ebenezer Scrooge from Charles Dickens’ novel “A Christmas Carol.” It refers to someone who is miserly or unwilling to spend money.

For example, “Don’t be such a Scrooge and buy us a round of drinks.”
When discussing a friend who never wants to chip in for group activities, one might say, “He’s such a Scrooge.”
A person might describe their boss as a Scrooge if they refuse to give out bonuses during the holiday season.

22. Lame

This term is used to describe something or someone that is unimpressive, uncool, or boring.

For instance, “That party was so lame. There was no music or dancing.”
When discussing a disappointing movie, one might say, “The plot was predictable and the characters were lame.”
A person might describe a boring lecture as “lame” if it fails to capture their interest.

23. Meh

This term is used to express a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or excitement about something.

For example, “I asked him if he wanted to go to the concert, and he just shrugged and said ‘meh.’
When trying a new dish and finding it mediocre, one might say, “It’s okay, but it’s just meh.”
A person might describe a lukewarm response to a new movie by saying, “The reviews were mixed, so I’m feeling pretty meh about seeing it.”

24. No bueno

This term is borrowed from Spanish and is used to indicate that something is not good or undesirable.

For instance, “I tried the new restaurant, but the food was no bueno.”
When discussing a failed attempt at a DIY project, one might say, “My painting skills are definitely no bueno.”
A person might describe a disappointing outcome by saying, “I studied all night for the test, but my grade was no bueno.”

25. Not my cup of tea

This phrase is used to indicate that something is not to one’s liking or preference.

For example, “I tried watching that show, but it’s just not my cup of tea.”
When declining an invitation to a social event, one might say, “Thanks for the invite, but loud parties are not really my cup of tea.”
A person might describe a style of music they don’t enjoy by saying, “Heavy metal is not my cup of tea.”

26. Pessimistic

Pessimistic refers to having a negative outlook or expecting the worst outcome in a situation.

For example, “Don’t be so pessimistic, things might turn out better than you think.”
A person might say, “I’m feeling pessimistic about our chances of winning the game.”
In a discussion about the future, someone might comment, “I have a pessimistic view of the economy.”

27. Sucks

Sucks is a slang term used to describe something that is terrible, unpleasant, or disappointing.

For instance, “This movie sucks, I’m leaving halfway through.”
A person might say, “My day really sucks, everything is going wrong.”
In a conversation about a bad experience, someone might comment, “The service at that restaurant really sucks.”

28. Wack

Wack is a slang term used to describe something that is crazy, absurd, or nonsensical.

For example, “That outfit is wack, who would wear that?”
A person might say, “This party is wack, there’s no music or energy.”
In a discussion about a strange event, someone might comment, “That’s wack, I can’t believe that actually happened.”

29. Weak

Weak is a slang term used to describe someone or something that is lacking strength, ability, or resilience.

For instance, “He’s so weak, he can’t even lift a small box.”
A person might say, “I feel weak after being sick for a week.”
In a conversation about a disappointing performance, someone might comment, “Their team played weak, they didn’t put in any effort.”

30. Crappy

Crappy is a slang term used to describe something that is of poor quality, unpleasant, or unsatisfactory.

For example, “This restaurant has crappy food, I wouldn’t recommend it.”
A person might say, “I had a crappy day at work, everything went wrong.”
In a discussion about a disappointing product, someone might comment, “I bought this phone and it’s really crappy, it keeps freezing.”

31. Unfortunate

This word is used to describe a situation that is unlucky or has a negative result.

For example, “It’s unfortunate that we had to cancel the event due to bad weather.”
In a conversation about a missed opportunity, someone might say, “It’s unfortunate that I didn’t get the job.”
A person might express sympathy by saying, “I heard about your car accident, that’s really unfortunate.”

32. Disappointing

This word is used to describe something that fails to meet expectations or leaves someone feeling disappointed.

For instance, “The movie was so hyped but turned out to be really disappointing.”
If someone receives a gift they don’t like, they might say, “That’s disappointing, I was hoping for something else.”
A student might say, “I studied so hard for the test and got a disappointing grade.”

33. Dismal

This word is used to describe something that is bleak, depressing, or gives a feeling of gloom.

For example, “The weather forecast for tomorrow is dismal, just constant rain.”
If someone is feeling down, they might say, “I’m in a dismal mood today, everything seems to be going wrong.”
A person might describe a failing business as “having a dismal outlook.”

34. Unfavorable

This word is used to describe something that is not advantageous or beneficial, and has a negative impact.

For instance, “The team faced unfavorable conditions during the game, which affected their performance.”
If someone receives a negative review, they might say, “The feedback was unfavorable, but I’ll work on improving.”
A person might describe a decision as “having an unfavorable outcome.”

35. Gloomy Gus

This term is used to describe someone who always has a negative or pessimistic outlook.

For example, “Don’t be such a gloomy Gus, try to see the bright side.”
If someone is constantly complaining, they might be referred to as a “gloomy Gus.”
A person might say, “I try to avoid spending too much time with gloomy Guses, it brings me down.”

36. Crummy

This word is used to describe something that is of poor quality or not enjoyable. It is often used to express disappointment or dissatisfaction.

For example, “I had a crummy day at work.”
Someone might say, “The weather is so crummy today.”
A person might express their feelings about a bad movie by saying, “That movie was crummy.”

37. Bummed out

This phrase is used to describe a feeling of sadness or disappointment. It is often used when something doesn’t go as expected or when someone is feeling down.

For instance, “I’m really bummed out that I didn’t get the job.”
A person might say, “I was really looking forward to the concert, but it got canceled. I’m so bummed out.”
Someone might express their disappointment by saying, “I was supposed to go on vacation, but it got canceled. I’m bummed out.”

38. Grim

This word is used to describe something that is dark, gloomy, or depressing. It can be used to describe a situation, an atmosphere, or a person’s mood.

For example, “The news about the pandemic is really grim.”
A person might say, “The forecast for tomorrow looks grim.”
Someone might describe a movie as grim by saying, “It’s a dark and grim film that explores the harsh realities of life.”

39. Grinch

This term is derived from the character “The Grinch” from Dr. Seuss’ book “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” It is used to describe someone who is negative, unkind, or who tries to ruin the happiness of others.

For instance, “Don’t be such a Grinch, let’s enjoy the party.”
A person might say, “My neighbor is a real Grinch. He complains about everything.”
Someone might describe a person’s behavior by saying, “She acted like a Grinch and ruined the surprise.”

40. Sucky

This word is used to describe something that is unpleasant, disappointing, or of poor quality. It is often used to express frustration or dissatisfaction.

For example, “I had a sucky day at work.”
A person might say, “The service at that restaurant was really sucky.”
Someone might express their disappointment by saying, “The ending of that movie was so sucky.”

41. Lousy

Lousy is a slang term used to describe something that is bad or of poor quality. It can also be used to express dissatisfaction or disappointment.

For example, “The food at that restaurant was lousy.”
A person might say, “I had a lousy day at work.”
Another might complain, “The service at this hotel is lousy.”

42. Negatory

Negatory is a slang term used to mean no or negative. It is often used as a playful or informal way of expressing refusal or disagreement.

For instance, “Are you going to the party?” “Negatory, I have other plans.”
A person might say, “I asked if they wanted to go out, but they gave me a negatory response.”
Another might use it in a sentence like, “Negatory, I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

43. Rotten

Rotten is a slang term used to describe something that is bad, unpleasant, or of poor quality. It can also be used to express extreme dislike or disappointment.

For example, “The milk in the fridge smells rotten.”
A person might say, “I had a rotten experience at the DMV.”
Another might complain, “This weather is absolutely rotten.”

44. Trash

Trash is a slang term used to describe something that is very bad or worthless. It can be used to express strong disapproval or disdain.

For instance, “That movie was complete trash.”
A person might say, “I can’t believe you’re still dating that trashy guy.”
Another might use it in a sentence like, “This song is pure trash.”

45. Whack

Whack is a slang term used to describe something that is crazy or absurd. It can also be used to express disbelief or surprise.

For example, “Did you hear what happened? That’s whack!”
A person might say, “I can’t believe he did something so whack.”
Another might use it in a sentence like, “That’s whack, I can’t wrap my head around it.”

46. Bogus

This slang term is used to describe something that is not genuine or true. It can also refer to something that is of poor quality or disappointing.

For example, “That website is full of bogus information.”
A person might say, “Don’t believe his story, it’s totally bogus.”
Another might comment, “I bought this product online and it turned out to be bogus.”

47. Grungy

This slang term is used to describe something that is dirty, messy, or unclean. It can also refer to a run-down or shabby appearance.

For instance, “I don’t want to go into that grungy old bar.”
A person might say, “After working all day, I feel grungy and just want to take a shower.”
Another might comment, “The basement of that building is so grungy, I wouldn’t want to go down there.”

48. Nasty

This slang term is used to describe something that is gross, unpleasant, or distasteful. It can also refer to someone who behaves in a mean or aggressive manner.

For example, “I found a moldy sandwich in the fridge, it was so nasty.”
A person might say, “He said some really nasty things to me.”
Another might comment, “The smell in that room was absolutely nasty.”

49. Shitty

This slang term is used to describe something that is bad, awful, or of low quality. It can also be used to express dissatisfaction or disappointment.

For instance, “I had a really shitty day at work.”
A person might say, “The service at that restaurant was so shitty.”
Another might comment, “I bought this shirt and the quality is really shitty.”

50. Terrible

This slang term is used to describe something that is very bad, awful, or unpleasant. It can also be used to express strong disapproval or disappointment.

For example, “I had a terrible headache all day.”
A person might say, “The weather is terrible, it’s been raining for days.”
Another might comment, “I watched a terrible movie last night, it was so boring.”

51. Ugly

This term is used to describe someone or something that is not visually pleasing or attractive. It can also be used figuratively to describe something that is unpleasant or displeasing.

For example, someone might say, “That painting is really ugly.”
In a conversation about personal appearance, a person might say, “I feel ugly today.”
Another might comment, “That dress is so ugly, I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing it.”

52. Wretched

This word is used to describe something or someone that is in a state of extreme unhappiness or distress. It can also be used to describe something that is of poor quality or in a pitiful condition.

For instance, someone might say, “I had a wretched day at work.”
In a discussion about a terrible movie, a person might say, “That film was wretched.”
Another might comment, “The conditions in the refugee camp were wretched.”