on a bad note

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a bad note" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is most often used to describe the way something ended - either a conversation, event, or situation. For example: The conference ended on a bad note when the head speaker ran out of time and wasn't able to finish their presentation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

I don't want to leave this article on a bad note, so let me give one last piece of Good News!

TechCrunch

"I'm very happy with myself to know that I started off on a bad note but ended on a good one," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

'No media circus' intentions start off on a bad note.

The New York Times

"You can't end on a bad note!" she says.

The New York Times - Sports

And as in Tijuana, this year started out on a bad note.

The New York Times - Magazine

Deceptively, Boro had begun on a bad note, the hamstrung Ben Gibson limping off inside 30 seconds.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

If it ends on a medium note or a bad note, so be it.

The New York Times - Sports

"I didn't want to end on a sour note or a bad note.

The New York Times - Sports

More like a bad note!

Independent

BLOOMBERG NEWS   Hedge Funds End 2011 on a Very Bad Note  |  Last year was dismal for hedge funds, according to an index maintained by Eurekahedge, an independent research firm that specializes in hedge fund data.

The New York Times

That conference ended on an overtly bad note when President Franklin Roosevelt who had taken office only a few months earlier and had no clear idea of what he wanted the U.S. to get out of the talks torpedoed the meeting by sending an unexpected telegram that, in effect, said the U.S. wasn't interested in any agreement the delegates came up with.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "unfavorably", "inauspiciously", or "with negative consequences" to add nuance and sophistication to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "on a bad note" if the negative outcome wasn't a direct result of how something ended or began. Instead, focus on describing the specific cause of the unfavorable situation without relating it directly to the beginning or end. Otherwise, this can be misunderstood or misconstrued as simply being poorly planned.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a bad note" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It indicates the manner in which an action concludes or commences. Ludwig examples show it often describes how events or situations end unfavorably.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

20%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

8%

Encyclopedias

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a bad note" is commonly used to describe how something concludes or begins unfavorably. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase follows standard grammar rules. It is most frequently found in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure the context clarifies what ended or began poorly. Consider alternatives such as "unfavorably" or "inauspiciously" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with unsatisfactory results

Focuses on the unmet expectations or desired outcomes.

with a negative outcome

Directly states that the result was undesirable.

to a regrettable end

Emphasizes the feeling of sorrow or disappointment associated with the conclusion.

under unfortunate circumstances

Highlights the role of circumstances in leading to a negative result.

under adverse conditions

Highlights external conditions that made the outcome negative.

inauspiciously

Single word alternative; describes a start or ending associated with bad omens or poor prospects.

with negative consequences

Focuses on the results or repercussions of an action or situation.

unfavorably

Single word alternative; describes acting or being done in a way that causes dislike.

badly

Highlights the poor quality or execution of something.

poorly

Highlights substandard performance or outcome.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "on a bad note" in a sentence?

You can replace "on a bad note" with alternatives such as "unfavorably", "inauspiciously", or "with a negative outcome" depending on the context.

Is it better to end a conversation "on a bad note" or try to resolve the issue?

Generally, it's preferable to attempt resolution rather than ending "on a bad note". However, if resolution is impossible at that moment, agreeing to revisit the discussion later can be a better approach.

What does it mean when someone says a relationship ended "on a bad note"?

It means the relationship concluded with negative feelings, unresolved conflicts, or unpleasant circumstances. This might involve arguments, betrayals, or simply a lack of closure.

How can I prevent a meeting from ending "on a bad note"?

To prevent a meeting from ending "on a bad note", ensure all agenda items are addressed, summarize key decisions, and allocate action items. Open the floor for final thoughts and thank attendees for their contributions.