up to no good: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "up to something" is closely related to the phrase "up to no good." While "up to no good" suggests suspicious or potentially harmful intentions, "up to something" carries a more general meaning of being engaged or involved in an undisclosed or unknown activity. It implies that the person in question is planning or doing something, but the specifics are not known or have not been revealed.

The phrase "be up to" is another idiomatic expression that is related to "up to no good." It is used to describe someone's current state of activity or engagement. When someone is said to be "up to" something, it means they are occupied or involved in a particular activity or undertaking. The phrase can be used to describe both positive and negative actions or intentions.

The idiom "the jig is up" is similar to "up to no good" in that it suggests a person's dishonest actions or intentions have been discovered or exposed. It implies that the person can no longer continue their mischievous or deceptive behavior because they have been found out. "The jig is up" is often used to communicate that someone's secret plans or activities have been revealed.

Similarly, the idiom "get away with" is linked to "up to no good" in its negative connotation. When someone is said to have "gotten away with" something, it means they have successfully avoided punishment or consequences for their actions. It implies that the person has engaged in behavior that is considered immoral, dishonest, or harmful, yet has managed to avoid being held accountable or facing negative repercussions.

These related idioms provide additional layers of meaning and context to the phrase "up to no good." While "up to no good" suggests suspicious or potentially harmful intentions, "up to something" conveys a more general sense of undisclosed or unknown activity. "The jig is up" indicates that a person's dishonest actions or intentions have been exposed, and "get away with" implies that someone has avoided punishment or consequences for their immoral or harmful behavior.

The idiom "up to no good" is a commonly used phrase that conveys negative or suspicious intentions. It originated in the early 19th century and is often used in informal conversations and writing. The phrase is versatile and can be used to describe various behaviors or actions. While it does not provide specific details about a person's actions or intentions, it serves as a warning or indication of potential harm or dishonesty. The related idioms "up to something," "be up to," "the jig is up," and "get away with" add depth and nuance to the meaning of "up to no good." These idioms further emphasize undisclosed or unknown activities, the exposure of dishonest actions, and the avoidance of consequences for immoral behavior.