up to no good
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
This elderly man, who has been standing outside Edward and Flora’s home holding a tray of matches in a nearly deserted lane, can only be up to no good in Edward’s estimation.
From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 28, 2023
The Georgia legislature recognized that people who are up to no good can abuse our citizens’ security and the public order just as gravely while wearing a business suit.
From Slate • Aug. 15, 2023
"It was well-known that he was obviously up to no good so to speak," the man said.
From Reuters • Jul. 3, 2023
Its convincing approximation of human responses could be a powerful tool for those up to no good.
From BBC • Feb. 13, 2023
‘I don’t know. Nothing, maybe. But he’s up to no good, nosing around, I’ll wager. Curse him! No sooner had he slipped us and run off than word came he’s wanted alive, wanted quick.’
From "The Return of the King" by J.R.R. Tolkien
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
