bad news: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘bad news’ mean?
The idiom "bad news" refers to information or a situation that is negative, unpleasant, or undesirable.
Idiom Explorer
An idiom often used to describe a person who is disliked or considered bad, with negative qualities or behavior.
One of the most popular idioms in English is "rotten egg." This phrase describes a person who is considered bad or unpleasant. The idiom originated in the early 19th century and is still commonly used today.
The idiom "glad tidings" refers to joyful news or information that brings happiness or excitement.
The idiom "drop a bombshell" means to reveal surprising or shocking news or information that has a powerful and disruptive impact.
The idiom "down in the dumps" means feeling sad, depressed, or low in spirits.
The idiom “down in the dumps” refers to a state of feeling sad, unhappy, or depressed. It is commonly used to describe someone who is feeling down or low in spirits. The origin and precise meaning of this idiom have been the subject of speculation and debate, but there are some facts that are known for certain.
The idiom "doomed if you do, doomed if you don't" refers to a lose-lose situation, where any choice or action will lead to negative consequences or a bad outcome.
The idiom "don't go there" is used to advise someone to avoid discussing a particular topic or situation, usually because it is sensitive, controversial, or likely to cause conflict.
The idiom "do ill" means to cause harm or injury, to act in a harmful or negative way.
The idiom "do ill" refers to causing harm or doing something morally wrong or unethical. It is often used in a negative context, showing disapproval or criticism.
One interesting fact about this idiom is its long history. The phrase "doen ille" was used in Middle English with a similar meaning. Over time, it evolved into "do ill" as we know it today.
The idiom "dismal science" refers to economics, and it implies that the study of economics can be gloomy or pessimistic.
The idiom "dismal science" is a phrase often used to refer to the study of economics. It was coined by Scottish writer and historian Thomas Carlyle in the mid-19th century. Carlyle used the term in his work "Occasional Discourse on the Negro Question" to criticize economist John Stuart Mill and other economists for their views on slavery.
The idiom "dish the dirt" means to share or reveal gossip or negative information about someone. It is often used when someone is talking about another person's personal or private matters in a negative or judgmental way.
The idiom "dirty word" refers to a word or phrase that is offensive, vulgar, or taboo in nature. It is generally used to describe language that is considered inappropriate or socially unacceptable in certain contexts.
The Origin Unveiled
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.
Furthermore, the idiom "bad news" has become deeply ingrained in our cultural lexicon. It is used as a shorthand way to convey emotional responses and reactions. For example, when someone says, "I'm afraid I have bad news," it immediately elicits a sense of concern or anxiety in the listener.
The related idiom "rotten egg" is closely associated with the concept of "bad news." Just as bad news carries a negative and undesirable connotation, a rotten egg symbolizes something that is spoiled, decayed, or corrupt. Both idioms highlight negative experiences or situations.
Similarly, the idiom "glad tidings" stands in contrast to the concept of "bad news." While bad news conveys negativity and unfortunate consequences, glad tidings refer to joyous or positive information. The juxtaposition of these two idioms emphasizes the opposing nature of the emotions they elicit.
Another related idiom is "bad company." This phrase refers to the negative influence or impact that certain individuals can have on others. Just as bad news can bring negativity into our lives, bad company can lead to undesirable consequences. Both idioms underscore the importance of surrounding ourselves with positive influences.
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.
Overall, the idiom "bad news" is a powerful linguistic tool that allows us to express and convey negative or undesirable situations with brevity and impact. Its historical origins and continued usage highlight its importance and relevance in our everyday lives. As we navigate the complexities of the English language, we must not overlook the enduring power of this seemingly simple phrase.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "bad news" can be used 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.
More "Expressions" idioms
