Evil days

Definitions

• difficult or trying times
  To refer to a period of hardship or adversity

• discourage someone
  Advise against engaging in a particular activity or task, cautioning that it will not result in any positive outcome or benefit

Examples of Evil days

• The stock market has been in a run of evil days, with consecutive drops in value leaving investors anxious and unsure of what to do.

  "Evil days" in this example refers to a period of time when something seems to be going terribly wrong. In this case, the stock market has been experiencing a series of negative events, such as drops in value, leaving investors feeling uncertain and uneasy.

• Due to the fire, our business has been experiencing evil days as we work to get back up and running.

  "Evil days" in this context means a difficult or challenging period of time. Here, the business is facing a tough time as it deals with the aftermath of a fire, which has caused disruption and inconvenience to its operations.

• The news of the company's financial troubles has left us in a state of evil days, with an uncertain future looming ahead.

  "Evil days" in this usage refers to a time of great uncertainty or danger. In this case, the business's financial difficulties have left the people involved feeling anxious and uncertain about what lies ahead.

• The sudden loss of the company's key executive has left us in a state of evil days as we struggle to find a suitable replacement and keep the business running smoothly.

  "Evil days" in this context means a tough or challenging time. Here, the company is facing difficulties following the departure of a senior executive, who played a crucial role in its operations. The business is now searching for a replacement and trying to maintain its regular activities in the meantime.

• The small business owner has been enduring evil days lately. Her sales have dropped significantly, and she's been struggling to keep the costs down.

  The phrase "evil days" refers to a difficult or trying time. It can be used to describe a period in which one experiences misfortune, hardship, or failure. Here, the business owner is experiencing a period of financial difficulty and hardship.

• Despite the evil days, the small business owner remains optimistic and is determined to pull through.

  This example shows how the idiom can be used in a sentence other than just discussing the hardships themselves. Here, "evil days" is used to describe a period of difficulty, but the business owner's attitude towards it is also highlighted.

• The evil days of the small business owner have taken a toll on her mental health. She's been experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety, and hasn't slept well in weeks.

  This example demonstrates the impact that difficult times can have on a person's wellbeing. "Evil days" can also be used to describe the emotional and psychological effects of hardship.

• The small business owner has been praying for the evil days to end, but she's holding on in the hope that things will improve soon.

  This example shows how the idiom can be used to express the hope for better times ahead, in contrast to the negative connotations of the phrase. It demonstrates that "evil days" doesn't necessarily mean that the situation is hopeless or irreversible.

Conclusion

The idiom "evil days" can be used to describe difficult or trying times, or to discourage someone from engaging in a particular activity.

Origin of "Evil days"

The origin of the idiom "evil days" can be traced back to Old English literature, where it was used to describe times of hardship or adversity. The concept of "evil" in this context refers to anything that causes harm or distress, and "days" represents a period of time. Over time, the idiom has evolved to be used in modern English to convey the idea of facing challenges or discouraging someone from pursuing something that may lead to negative outcomes. Examples of its usage can be found in various literary works throughout history, showcasing its enduring relevance in the English language.