up to no good

INFORMAL
This page is about the conversational phrase up to no good

Meaning

to be doing something bad, illegal or naughty

For example

  • "I know you've been up to no good. You won't look me in the eye."
    "I haven't done anything, Mum. Honest!"

  • "Where are the boys?"
    "Up to no good again, I'd say. You know what they're like."

Note:
Usually said about children, or with humour when referring to adults.

Quick Quiz

My wife said, "Our kids have been up to no good again. We've got to

a. comfort them."

b. reward them."

c. punish them."
a) comfort them." b) reward them." c) punish them."

Contributor: Matt Errey