Up to no good
phrase
Engaging in harmful or disruptive activities.
I saw the kids sneaking around the back garden, they looked like they were up to no good.
Often appears as...
- looks up to no good
- seemed up to no good
Usage tips
Disapproving
Colloquial
phrase
Engaging in harmful or disruptive activities.
I saw the kids sneaking around the back garden, they looked like they were up to no good.
Often appears as...
- looks up to no good
- seemed up to no good
Usage tips
Disapproving
Colloquial
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Colloquial Usage
The phrase is informal and best used in casual conversations rather than formal situations.
When I saw them giggling with spray paint, I knew they were up to no good.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Actions
Implies the person is doing something wrong, but the specific action is often not mentioned.
The neighbors' quiet whispers and frequent glances told me they were up to no good.
Pro Tip 3/3Subtle Suspicion
It suggests a suspicion of mischief or wrongdoing, without proof or details.
He's been too quiet today. Do you think he's up to no good?
Pro Tip 1/3Colloquial Usage
The phrase is informal and best used in casual conversations rather than formal situations.
When I saw them giggling with spray paint, I knew they were up to no good.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Actions
Implies the person is doing something wrong, but the specific action is often not mentioned.
The neighbors' quiet whispers and frequent glances told me they were up to no good.
Pro Tip 3/3Subtle Suspicion
It suggests a suspicion of mischief or wrongdoing, without proof or details.
He's been too quiet today. Do you think he's up to no good?
Pro Tip 1/3Colloquial Usage
The phrase is informal and best used in casual conversations rather than formal situations.
When I saw them giggling with spray paint, I knew they were up to no good.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Actions
Implies the person is doing something wrong, but the specific action is often not mentioned.
The neighbors' quiet whispers and frequent glances told me they were up to no good.
Pro Tip 3/3Subtle Suspicion
It suggests a suspicion of mischief or wrongdoing, without proof or details.
He's been too quiet today. Do you think he's up to no good?
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