What does “In my bad books” mean?
"In my bad books" means to be in someone's disfavor or to be disliked by someone.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Ever since I broke his favorite mug, I've been in his bad books.
Example
After I accidentally spilled coffee on her new dress, I'm definitely in her bad books.
Example
He's been in my bad books ever since he forgot my birthday
Is “In my bad books” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“In my bad books” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “In my bad books” effectively in context?
You can use "In my bad books" to describe being in someone's disfavor or being disliked by someone. It implies that the person is unhappy with you or has a negative opinion of you. For example, if your friend is upset with you for forgetting their birthday, you might say, 'I'm definitely in their bad books now.'
- 1Friendship
Ever since I broke his favorite mug, I've been in his bad books.
- 2Apology
After I accidentally spilled coffee on her new dress, I'm definitely in her bad books.
- 3Forgotten Occasion
He's been in my bad books ever since he forgot my birthday.
Similar phrases to “In my bad books”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “In my bad books” come from?
The origin of the phrase "In my bad books" is unknown.
Is “In my bad books” common in everyday conversation?
"In my bad books" is a relatively common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express that they are in someone's disfavor or have done something to be disliked by someone.
What tone does “In my bad books” have?
"In my bad books" conveys a tone of disapproval or disappointment. It suggests that the person using the phrase is aware of their negative standing with someone and may feel regretful or apologetic.
Can “In my bad books” be used in informal and formal settings?
"In my bad books" is a fairly informal phrase that is commonly used in casual conversations among friends, family, and acquaintances. It may not be as commonly used in formal or professional settings.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Ever since I broke his favorite mug, I've been in his bad books.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Looks like I'm in "his bad books" now!' to imply being in someone's disfavor.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- in someone's disfavor
- unpopular with someone
- not in someone's good books
- on someone's bad side
- in someone's black book
Antonyms
- in someone's good books
- favored by someone
- in someone's good graces
- on someone's good side
