English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Up to no good
Meaning
The idiom "up to no good" is used to describe someone or something that is causing trouble or behaving in a dishonest or malicious way. It can also be used to describe a situation or event that is not desirable or positive. Figuratively, it means that the person or thing being described is doing something harmful or illegal, or is engaging in behavior that is generally considered to be negative.
Usage
- The police arrested the suspect who was up to no good and had been causing trouble in the neighborhood for weeks.
- My friend always manages to get herself into trouble when she's up to no good.
- We need to keep a close eye on our employees, as some of them are up to no good and stealing from the company.
- I never trust anyone who is up to no good, especially when it comes to important matters.
- The new CEO has been making changes since taking over, and some employees are worried that they're up to no good and will lose their jobs.
Roots and History
The earliest known use of the idiom "up to no good" dates back to 1387 when it was first used in Middle English. It originally meant "to do harm or mischief." Over time, the meaning has evolved to include a broader range of negative behavior, such as theft, lying, and cheating. The idiom is commonly associated with the United States and Great Britain, but it is also used in other countries around the world.
Synonyms in English
- Troublemaker
- Malefactor
- Miscreant
- Scoundrel
- Ruffian
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: "El malvado" (The evil-doer) - This idiom is used to describe someone who is doing something harmful or illegal.
- French: "Le mauvais" (The bad one) - This idiom has a similar meaning to "el malvado" and is used to describe someone who is causing trouble or behaving in a negative way.
- German: "Der Schurke" (The villain) - This idiom is used to describe someone who is doing something evil or illegal, often with an element of malice or greed.
- Italian: "Il malfattore" (The bad-doer) - This idiom has a similar meaning to "el malvado" and is used to describe someone who is causing trouble or behaving in a negative way.
- Arabic: "الله يحبي الكافر" (God loves the infidel) - This idiom is used to describe someone who is doing something bad or illegal, often with an element of rebellion or disobedience.