ENGLISH
REFERENCE

have a bad time of it

idiom
Meaning

Synonym of have a rough time of it.


Examples
SIMPLE

He is having a bad time of it at his new job.

CONTEXTUAL

Since her car broke down and she lost her keys, she is really having a bad time of it today.

COMPLEX

After the sudden loss of his business, he had a bad time of it for several months while trying to rebuild his life.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a week is a long time in politics

    In politics, much change can occur in a short space of time.

  2. 02

    about time

    Far past the desired time.

  3. 03

    any time now

    Very soon.

  4. 04

    any time soon

    soon

  5. 05

    bad actor

    An individual or entity with a prior criminal conviction, or who has been sanctioned by the court or regulator.

  6. 06

    bad apple

    A person who is not wholesome, honest, or trustworthy, especially one who has an adverse influence on others.

  7. 07

    bad books

    Disfavor.

  8. 08

    bad business

    Synonym of bad news (“irritating, troublesome or harmful thing, situation or person”).

Last updated April 17, 2026