bad government

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bad government" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a government that is ineffective, corrupt, or not serving the needs of its citizens. Example: "Many citizens are frustrated with the current state of bad government, which has led to widespread protests and calls for reform."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It enables them to distinguish between "bad" government (or rowing) and necessary governance (or steering).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Bad government is bad.

The Economist

The result is bad government.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's bad government," he said.

The New York Times

It need not lead to bad government.

The Guardian

In that time it set the standard for bad government.

The Economist

MOST of eastern Europe worries about its bad government.

The Economist

It's because we have a bad government," she says.

The Economist

Bad government undermines trust, which in turn corrodes democracy.

The Economist

Guinea-Bissau seems hopelessly afflicted with bad government.

The New York Times - Magazine

In some cases, it has also brought bad government.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bad government", be specific about which aspects of the government are deficient. For example, instead of simply saying "the government is bad", specify if it's due to corruption, inefficiency, or poor policy decisions.

Common error

Avoid using "bad government" as a catch-all term without providing concrete examples. Broad statements can weaken your argument. Instead, illustrate your point with specific instances of policy failures, ethical breaches, or administrative shortcomings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bad government" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "bad" modifies the noun "government". It serves as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes a government that is ineffective or corrupt.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

13%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bad government" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a governing body that is deficient in some way. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Its function is to express disapproval, and it's most frequently used in news and media contexts. While alternatives like "poor governance" or "ineffective administration" might be more precise in formal writing, "bad government" remains a widely understood and accepted term for criticizing governmental performance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

poor governance

A more general term for inadequate or deficient management.

dysfunctional government

Highlights the inability of the government to operate smoothly and effectively.

ineffective governance

Focuses on the lack of positive results and efficient operation.

incompetent leadership

Focuses on the lack of skill and ability in those leading the government.

corrupt administration

Highlights dishonesty and abuse of power within the governing body.

unjust rule

Highlights the unfair and inequitable application of laws and policies.

mismanagement of state affairs

Emphasizes the mishandling of public resources and policy.

oppressive regime

Implies a harsh and authoritarian form of government.

failed state

Implies a complete breakdown of governmental authority and services.

tyrannical government

Emphasizes the abuse of power and suppression of individual rights.

FAQs

What are some synonyms for "bad government"?

You can use alternatives like "ineffective governance", "poor governance", or "corrupt administration" depending on the context.

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

Example: "Many citizens are frustrated with the current state of "bad government", which has led to widespread protests and calls for reform."

What's the difference between "bad government" and "ineffective government"?

"Bad government" is a broader term that can encompass moral failings like corruption, while "ineffective government" primarily refers to a lack of positive outcomes or efficient operation.

Is it appropriate to use "bad government" in formal writing?

While "bad government" is widely understood, in formal writing, it might be more appropriate to use more precise and nuanced terms like "poor governance", "mismanagement", or descriptions that specify the exact issues with the government.