The Village Idiom

bad news

The idiom "bad news" refers to information or a situation that is negative, unpleasant, or undesirable.

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In a sentence

  • She received a call from the hospital, and it turned out to be bad news.
  • When my boss asked to speak with me privately, I knew it was going to be bad news.
  • He looked upset when he came back from the meeting, and we all knew he had received some bad news.

Where it comes from and how it is used

One of the most commonly used idioms in the English language is "bad news." This phrase is often used to describe a situation or information that is negative, undesirable, or has unfortunate consequences. It has a long history and is deeply ingrained in our everyday conversations.

The earliest known use of the phrase "bad news" can be traced back to the 16th century. In Shakespeare's play Richard III, the character Buckingham exclaims, "Thou elvish-mark'd, abortive, rooting hog! Thou that wast seal'd in thy nativity The slave of nature and the son of hell! Thou slander of thy heavy mother's womb! Thou loathed issue of thy father's loins! Thou rag of honor! Thou detested...

Over time, the idiom "bad news" became more prevalent and was used in various other literary works, including Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities. In the novel, the character Sydney Carton refers to himself as "bad news" due to his pessimistic outlook on life.

In contemporary usage, the idiom "bad news" has evolved to encompass a wide range of scenarios. It can refer to receiving unfavorable information, experiencing setbacks, or encountering people who bring negativity into our lives. The phrase is often used colloquially and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.

What makes the idiom "bad news" particularly fascinating is its versatility. It can be used metaphorically, describing not only events or situations but also people. The phrase carries a strong negative connotation and is typically used to emphasize the seriousness or severity of a situation. It acts as a warning sign, alerting the listener to the potential negative consequences that may arise from the situation at hand.

The idiom "bad word" is also connected to the concept of "bad news." While bad news refers to negative information or situations, a bad word can have a detrimental effect on someone's reputation or relationships. Both idioms highlight the impact that negative words or information can have on individuals.

While the exact origins of the idiom "bad news" are unclear, it has undoubtedly become a ubiquitous and indispensable part of the English language. Its usage has transcended time and remains deeply rooted in our linguistic repertoire. The significance and impact of this idiom cannot be overstated, as it continues to shape our conversations and understanding of the world around us.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.