The bad apples metaphor originated as a warning of the corrupting influence of one corrupt or sinful person on a group: that "one bad apple can spoil the barrel". Over time the concept has been used to describe the opposite situation, where "a few bad apples" should not be seen as representative of the rest of their group.

One bad apple is often used to explain that an isolated incident of misconduct is not representative of the group, but the full proverb 'one bad apple can spoil the bunch' suggests that the individual is a risk factor for a more systemic problem.

The phrase “bad apple” is widely used today to describe someone whose negative behavior can spoil the reputation or environment of an entire group. While its current usage is metaphorical, the term originates from a literal idea tied to the spoilage of apples.

2024年9月15日 · The term “bad apple” refers to a person who has a negative influence on others within a group. It suggests that just like one rotten apple can cause other apples around it to spoil, one difficult or dishonest person can have a harmful effect on the whole group.

2013年6月9日 · You've probably experienced times when one bad apple — one negative person — did spoil the bunch by creating a negative atmosphere. But can the opposite work, too? Can one good apple improve the whole bunch?

Some synonyms for “bad apple” include “rotten egg,” “black sheep,” “spoiled fruit,” or simply “troublemaker.” These terms all refer to a person who is seen as problematic or disruptive within a group.

Bad Apple Meaning. A bad apple is a term we often use to talk about a troublesome or problematic person in a group whose actions or behavior could negatively affect the entire group. The idea stems from the literal fact that a rotten apple can cause other apples in the same batch to spoil. Rotten Apple vs. Bad Apple Bad apple and rotten apple ...

proverb It only takes one person, thing, element, etc., to ruin the entire group, situation, project, etc. Refers to the fact that a rotting apple can cause other apples in close proximity to begin to rot as well.

Idiom: One bad apple Meaning: The full form of this proverb is 'one bad apple spoils the barrel', meaning that a bad person, policy, etc, can ruin everything around it.

2014年8月7日 · We’ve all heard the saying "one bad apple spoils the whole bunch," and have probably seen instances where it does apply to people, but does it actually happen with fruit? Yes. As they ripen,...