bad egg: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘bad egg’ mean?
The idiom "bad egg" is used to describe a person who is not trustworthy or reliable. It implies that the person is morally corrupt or of low character.
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 "lay an egg" means to fail or produce something that is of poor quality, generally in a public or embarrassing manner.
The idiom "jive turkey" is a derogatory term used to describe someone who is not trustworthy or who speaks insincerely.
The idiom "in bad odor" is commonly used to describe someone or something that is disliked, disapproved of, or held in low esteem by others. This phrase is often associated with negative opinions or reputations. For example, when someone has a bad reputation, they may be said to be "in bad odor."
The idiom "hired gun" refers to a person who is hired to perform a specific task, often of a questionable or morally ambiguous nature, such as providing professional services, especially those involving violence or illegal activities, in exchange for payment.
The idiom "good old boy" refers to a person, typically a man, who is seen as trustworthy, loyal, and part of a close-knit community or group. It often implies that this person follows traditional values and has influence or connections within that community.
The idiom "good-for-nothing" is used to describe someone or something that is completely useless, lazy, or of no value or benefit. It implies a strong negative judgment about the person or thing being referred to.
A person who is trustworthy, helpful, or reliable. They are considered to be a "good egg" because they are good-hearted and can be counted on.
An idiom that refers to someone who is involved in inappropriate or illegal activities, particularly related to child exploitation, resembling the actions of the musician Gary Glitter.
The idiom "fox in the henhouse" refers to a person or thing that poses a threat or danger by infiltrating a group or situation where they are not welcome or trusted.
Unveiling the Rotten Core
The phrase "bad egg" is commonly used in English to describe a person who is dishonest, unreliable, or untrustworthy. This idiom has been in use since the 18th century and is thought to have originated from the literal meaning of a bad or spoiled egg, which is unfit for consumption. The earliest recorded usage of "bad egg" as an idiom can be found in a publication called "The Monthly Review" in 1762. In this context, it is stated, "A very good creature, but a bad egg." This suggests that the idiom was already well-known and widely used during that time. The association between a bad egg and a person of questionable character may stem from the idea that a single bad egg can spoil an entire batch. Just like a rotten egg can contaminate other eggs and make them inedible, a person who is considered a bad egg can have a negative influence on those around them. This association is further reinforced by the fact that consuming a spoiled egg can lead to physical discomfort or illness, paralleling the negative consequences of trusting a deceitful person. While the term "bad egg" is primarily used to describe individuals with negative qualities, it is worth noting that it can also be used in a more lighthearted or humorous manner. In certain contexts, it may be used affectionately to describe someone who may have made a mistake or acted mischievously, without necessarily implying malicious intent. Apart from "bad egg," there are several related idioms that carry similar meanings. One such idiom is "bad apple." This phrase is used to describe a person who is considered to be a negative influence on a group or organization. Just as a single bad apple can spoil the rest of the apples in a basket, a person who is a bad apple can have a detrimental effect on the overall harmony and well-being of a group. Similarly, the idiom "rotten egg" is another variant of the concept. A rotten egg is an egg that has reached an advanced stage of spoilage and is therefore inedible. This idiom is used to describe a person who is corrupt, morally bankrupt, or untrustworthy. Like a bad egg, a rotten egg is seen as having a negative impact on those around them. Conversely, the idiom "good egg" is used to describe a person who is honest, reliable, and trustworthy. This term has positive connotations and is the antithesis of a bad egg or a rotten egg. Just as a good egg brings positive qualities and contributes to an environment of trust, a person who is considered a good egg is seen as having a positive influence on others. The idiomatic phrase "bad egg" is used to describe a person who is dishonest, unreliable, or untrustworthy. Its origins can be traced back to the literal meaning of a spoiled egg, which carries negative associations with trust and reliability. While the idiom generally has a negative connotation, it can also be used in a more playful or forgiving manner depending on the context. Additionally, related idioms such as "bad apple," "rotten egg," and "good egg" further explore the themes of negative and positive character traits. These idioms collectively reflect the English language's rich tradition of using colorful phrases to describe human behavior and characteristics.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "bad egg" can be used in a sentence:
- He used to be my friend, but I found out he stole money from me. He turned out to be a bad egg.
- After several incidents of cheating, the teacher realized that one of the students was a bad egg.
- She seemed nice at first, but after spreading rumors about everyone, it's clear she's just a bad egg.
More "Disreputable" idioms
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