What does “A bad trip” mean?
The phrase "A bad trip" refers to a distressing or unpleasant experience resulting from the consumption of drugs, specifically hallucinogens like LSD or magic mushrooms. It describes a situation in which the user has negative and often terrifying thoughts, hallucinations, or feelings of anxiety and paranoia. A bad trip can be characterized by intense fear, confusion, and a general sense of unease, leading to a highly uncomfortable and sometimes traumatizing experience.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
He had a bad trip after taking that new drug.
Example
She experienced a bad trip and it scared her away from drugs.
Example
They warned him about the potential for a bad trip, but he didn't listen.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing a negative drug experience
He had a bad trip after taking that new drug.
She experienced a bad trip and it scared her away from drugs.
- 2Warning about potential negative effects of drugs
They warned him about the potential for a bad trip, but he didn't listen.
I don't want to try that drug. I've heard it can lead to a bad trip.
- 3Discussing the impact of a negative drug experience
His bad trip made him realize the dangers of drug use.
She still has nightmares about her bad trip.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "a bad trip" originated in the 1960s during the rise of psychedelic drug culture. It refers to an unpleasant or terrifying experience while under the influence of hallucinogenic drugs such as LSD or magic mushrooms.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "a bad trip" is typically used within a sentence to describe a negative drug experience. It is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "a bad trip" is not offensive in itself. However, it is associated with drug use, which may be a sensitive topic for some individuals.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "a bad trip" is commonly used among individuals who are familiar with drug culture or have experimented with hallucinogenic substances. It is more prevalent among younger generations and those who are interested in psychedelic experiences.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "a bad trip" is not specific to any particular accent or region. It is used globally within English-speaking communities where drug culture exists.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- unpleasant drug experience
- negative drug trip
- awful drug experiment
- horrible drug journey
- terrible drug adventure
Antonyms
- pleasant drug experience
- positive drug trip
- great drug experiment
- wonderful drug journey
- amazing drug adventure