A bad lot Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Negative Implication The phrase suggests a person has serious flaws or negative traits. Be careful dealing with him; he's a bad lot. Pro Tip 2/3Group Connotation Can be used collectively to describe a group with negative behavior or reputation. That gang is known to cause trouble; they're a bad lot. Pro Tip 3/3Judgmental Tone Using this phrase can sound judgmental or disapproving of someone's character. After all the fights he's started, he's a bad lot.