The English language is rich with synonyms for the phrase "bad thing." Some of the most commonly used synonyms include, but are not limited to, words like "negative," "harmful," "damaging," "unfortunate," "detrimental," "dreadful," "terrible," and "disastrous." Other synonyms that can be used to describe something bad include "woeful," "deplorable," "vicious," "wretched," "ugly," "abominable," "unsatisfactory," "appalling," "repugnant," and "objectionable." Whatever word you decide to use to describe a negative situation, it is important to remember that context and tone can also influence how that word is perceived.