Synonyms for "bad"
Looking for another word for "bad"? Common synonyms include poor, inferior, shoddy, subpar, mediocre.
Quick answer
The best synonym for "bad" depends on what you mean. Reach for a specific alternative — “bad service” is weaker than “rude service” or “unreliable service.”
Synonym groups by meaning
"bad" meaning: low quality or unpleasant
poorinferiorshoddysubparmediocredeficientsecond-rate
"bad" meaning: morally wrong
wickedevilimmoralwrongcorruptdishonest
"bad" meaning: harmful or damaging
harmfuldetrimentaldamagingdestructiveruinous
"bad" meaning: severe or serious
severegraveseriousintenseacute
Choose by tone or context
A thesaurus gives you a list; choosing is the next step. Match the synonym to the dimension of meaning you want — formal vs. casual, intense vs. softened, professional vs. conversational.