WORD POWER: This word tends to be used a lot. To make your writing more varied, try to use some of the alternative words suggested here instead.
appalling
The weather for our sports day was appalling.
damaging
The fumes emitted by jet aircraft can be highly damaging to the environment.
dangerous
Building sites are dangerous places which should be avoided.
distressing
Melinda found it distressing to see pictures of starving children.
dreadful
It was a dreadful shame: all Barak’s hard work disappeared as the blaze took hold.
grave
A spokesperson announced the grave news that the king was dying.
serious
The artist’s illness was too serious for him to continue painting.
terrible
Our goalkeeper was terrible today. She let in four easy shots!
ANTONYM: good
bad (2) ADJECTIVE
A bad person is naughty or unkind.
WORD POWER: This word tends to be used a lot. To make your writing more varied, try to use some of the alternative words suggested here instead.
corrupt
The corrupt politician had taken money from all sorts of people.
cruel
I can’t stand people being cruel to children or animals.
disobedient
The disobedient boy ignored the warning notice and fell into the quarry.
evil
The evil villain plotted how to ensnare the handsome knight.
mischievous
Tying Kerry’s shoelaces together was a mischievous prank.
naughty
“You’re a naughty girl, Cassandra,” said her mother angrily.
wicked
The wicked witch lived alone.
ANTONYM: good
Names for bad people include rogue, villain and scoundrel.
bad (3) ADJECTIVE
Bad can also mean of poor quality.
WORD POWER: This word tends to be used a lot. To make your writing more varied, try to use some of the alternative words suggested here instead.
abysmal
“Such abysmal work will have to be redone,” said Mr Malone severely.
atrocious
The reporter admitted that his spelling was atrocious.
faulty
Engineers soon fixed the faulty telephone line.
inferior
The paint Dad bought was of inferior quality – it was hard to use and didn’t last long.
shoddy
Owing to shoddy workmanship, the house had to be redecorated.