Is down-bad formal or informal?

It is very informal slang. Avoid it in business, academic, or polite writing.

What is the difference between down-bad and thirsty?

Both can mean overly eager for attention or romance. **Thirsty** is broader; **down-bad** often sounds more playful and sexual.

Can I use down-bad in a sentence?

Yes, in casual conversation. Example: 'He is down-bad for her.'

Is down-bad a common word?

It is common in online slang and social media, especially among younger speakers.

← Dictionary

down-bad

/ˌdaʊn ˈbæd/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Very desperate for attention, affection, or sex. It is informal slang and often sounds humorous or self-aware.

He was acting down-bad in the comments.
She called him down-bad for texting again.

Adinary Nuance

Down-bad is stronger and more slangy than attracted or crushing on someone. It usually suggests the person looks obvious, needy, or a little embarrassing. Use it in casual speech, not in formal writing.

In other languages

Vietnamese: thèm khát
Spanish: muy necesitado
Chinese: 很馋
Japanese: 夢中
Korean: 완전 빠진

Etymology

This slang phrase comes from African American English and spread widely on social media in the 2010s. It uses 'down' to mean 'deeply' or 'badly' in the sense of strong emotional intensity.

Common phrases

down-bad for someoneso down-badacting down-bad

Synonyms

desperate lustful thirsty

Related words

crush attraction infatuation thirst

Frequently asked questions

Is down-bad formal or informal?: It is very informal slang. Avoid it in business, academic, or polite writing.
What is the difference between down-bad and thirsty?: Both can mean overly eager for attention or romance. **Thirsty** is broader; **down-bad** often sounds more playful and sexual.
Can I use down-bad in a sentence?: Yes, in casual conversation. Example: 'He is down-bad for her.'
Is down-bad a common word?: It is common in online slang and social media, especially among younger speakers.