Bad egg

Meaning

The idiom "bad egg" is used to describe someone who behaves in a way that is dishonest, untrustworthy or generally unpleasant. This person may be seen as unreliable and may have a tendency to cause trouble for others. The phrase has a negative connotation and is often used as a warning to others about someone's character.

Usage

• "I always try to avoid people who are known to be bad eggs."
• "Don't trust that guy, he's a real bad egg."
• "She's always causing trouble for herself and others, she's truly a bad egg."
• "He may look charming, but I've heard stories about him being a bad egg."
• "I don't want to be associated with someone like that, they're just a bad egg."

Roots and History

The earliest known use of the phrase "bad egg" dates back to the 19th century in the United States. The term likely originated from the idea that some eggs are bad or rotten, while others are good. Over time, the phrase has taken on a more metaphorical meaning and is now commonly used to describe someone who behaves in an unpleasant way.

Synonyms in English

• "Unreliable"
• "Dishonest"
• "Troublemaker"
• "Bad character"
• "Unpleasant person"

Synonyms in other languages

• In Spanish, the phrase "mala persona" is used to describe someone with a bad character or unpleasant personality.
• In French, the phrase "un mauvais œuf" is similar in meaning and is used to describe someone who behaves in an unpleasant way.
• In Italian, the phrase "una persona brutta" is used to describe someone with a bad character or personality.
• In German, the phrase "ein schlecher Ei" has a similar meaning and is used to describe someone who behaves dishonestly or unpleasantly.
• In Japanese, the phrase "おおむち" is used to describe someone who has a bad character or personality.

Similar Idioms

• birds of a feather

• bread and butter

• beat around the bush