Definition of 'bad apple'
Word Frequency
bad apple in British
or rotten applea person with a corrupting influence
Collins English Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
Word Frequency
bad apple in British
(bæd ˈæpəl)noun
especially US
a person who is corrupt or wicked
It is hoped the inquiry will pick out the bad apples in the police force.
When you've got a bad apple in the barrel, you've got to throw it out.
They made it clear that they are not going to tolerate a bad apple in the United
States Senate.
Collins English Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
Example sentences containing 'bad apple'
These examples have been automatically selected and may contain sensitive content.
Read more…
The central question is, bad apples or bad barrels? Times, Sunday Times (2016)They may use it to sort out the bad apples in the barrel and try to cleanse the organisation of its alleged endemic corruption. Times, Sunday Times (2010)
Trends of 'bad apple'
Used Rarely. bad apple is in the lower 50% of commonly used words in the Collins dictionary
View usage for:
Nearby words of 'bad apple'
Related Terms of 'bad apple'
Source
Definition of bad apple from the
Collins English Dictionary
Fed up with the great British weather? Here’s how to afford that dream summer escape
From planning early to knowing where to look, these top tips will help you fulfil your summer holiday desires
Read more
The etymology behind 4 eggs-ellent Springtime words
We’ve explored the diverse etymology of 4 eggs-ellent words associated with spring.
Read more
Up Lit, Alexa Laugh & Meet Me at McDonald’s Hair: March’s Words In The News
Catch up on the latest words in the news this March with Robert Groves.
Read more
Join the Collins community
All the latest wordy news, linguistic insights, offers and competitions every month.
Read more