# something is rotten in the state of Denmark

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/something-is-rotten-in-the-state-of-denmark
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Something is not right, seriously amiss, especially when leading to suspicion of motive.

## Examples

- I suspect something is rotten in the state of Denmark with this deal.
- When the manager suddenly resigned without a clear reason, the staff whispered that something is rotten in the state of Denmark.
- As the financial reports revealed hidden debts and missing funds, the auditor concluded that something is rotten in the state of Denmark regarding the company's leadership.

## Origin

A line spoken by Marcellus in William Shakespeare's Hamlet, Act I, scene iv.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.