a bad application

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bad application" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an application that is poorly designed, ineffective, or not functioning as intended. Example: "The software update resulted in a bad application that caused numerous errors and crashes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Not a bad application for the trophy, but not quite enough in 1985, sadly.

The Guardian - Sport

"It is a clear case for the commission to start an investigation with a view to launching an infringement proceeding against the UK for a bad application of EU legislation".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Get this: nearly one in four jobseekers sever ties with brands following a bad job application experience!

Huffington Post

Hence, the practice of reliability engineering, logistics engineering, and systems engineering generally, rather than being bad engineering or bad application of good engineering, can instead be reformulated as an ongoing sense-making activity embedded in an adaptive social process.

Technovation

Operator motions unnecessary movements because of bad application   4.

Insights into Imaging

However, bad application practices may cause the contamination of different environmental compartments and animal species, as a consequence of migration or accumulation of those compounds.

Analytica Chimica Acta

He once thought, he said, that the way to be a moral scientist was to avoid projects with bad applications.

The Economist

"Bad applications of IT such as this situation give technology a bad name," Dreyfus says.

Vice

They should refuse to use their science for bad applications".

The Guardian

Unfortunately, while testing the device I felt like it was really something like 69,000 really mediocre (or just plain bad) applications.

The Guardian - Tech

"They are not bad products, just bad applications.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a bad application", ensure the context clearly defines what aspect of the application is deficient, such as design, functionality, or usability. Providing specific details strengthens your critique.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something is "a bad application" without specifying why. Unsupported generalizations lack credibility. Always provide specific examples or reasons to support your assessment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bad application" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "bad" modifies the noun "application". It describes a specific instance or example of an application that is considered to be of poor quality or ineffective. Ludwig provides examples in contexts like EU legislation and job experiences.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a bad application" is used to describe an instance where something has been applied or implemented poorly. While grammatically correct, Ludwig indicates it is a relatively rare expression, primarily found in news and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, it's best to be specific about why the application is considered "bad". Consider alternatives like "flawed application" or "deficient implementation" depending on the particular context. The phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for various forms of communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a deficient application

This alternative focuses on the lack of necessary qualities in the application.

a flawed application

This alternative emphasizes the presence of defects or errors in the application.

a subpar application

This alternative suggests the application is below the expected standard or quality.

an inadequate application

This alternative highlights the insufficiency of the application for its intended purpose.

a poor application

This is a simpler, more direct way of expressing the same idea.

a bungled application

This alternative suggests the application was handled clumsily or incompetently.

a problematic application

This suggests that the application presents difficulties or issues.

a deficient implementation

This alternative shifts the focus to the execution or realization of the application.

an unsuccessful application

This emphasizes that the application did not achieve its intended outcome.

a regrettable application

This alternative conveys a sense of disappointment or wishing things were different.

FAQs

What does "a bad application" mean?

The phrase "a bad application" refers to an instance where something is applied, utilized, or implemented poorly, leading to undesirable outcomes or failing to achieve the intended purpose. It suggests deficiency or inadequacy in the way something is put into practice.

How can I use "a bad application" in a sentence?

You can use "a bad application" to describe situations where processes, rules, or even substances are used improperly. For example, "The contamination was caused by "bad application practices" of pesticides" or "The project failed due to "a flawed application" of the new methodology".

What are some alternatives to saying "a bad application"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a flawed implementation", "a deficient strategy", "poor execution", or "inadequate usage" to convey a similar meaning. Each alternative slightly shifts the emphasis of the critique.

Is it better to say "bad application" or "poor application"?

Both "bad application" and "poor application" are generally acceptable and interchangeable. "Poor application" might sound slightly less harsh, but the choice depends on the specific context and the desired tone.