#EnglishSpeakingExamples

How to Answer “What’s Something So Bad It’s Good?” – English Speaking Examples

Have you ever been asked, “What’s something so bad it’s good?”

It’s a fun and surprising topic that often pops up in casual conversations, language exchanges, or even interviews for creative jobs. The question isn’t about serious opinions—it’s about guilty pleasures, ironic favorites, or things you love even though you know they’re a bit ridiculous.

Answering it well shows that you:

  • Understand humor and contradiction
  • Can express personal opinions clearly
  • Know how to tell a story in a natural, relatable way

In this article, you’ll learn how to answer this question smoothly in English, with real sample answers, useful phrases, and speaking tips that help your personality shine through—no matter what your favorite “bad but good” thing is.


Before Answering This Question…

This question might sound lighthearted, but it's actually a great opportunity to show that you can:

  • Talk about contradictions and personal tastes
  • Use humor and express emotion in English
  • Tell short, engaging stories
  • Use natural, everyday phrases

Let’s look at some sample answers to help you build your own response with confidence.


Example 1: Cheesy Movies – Casual Style

“Oh man, definitely those over-the-top disaster movies from the '90s—like Armageddon or Deep Impact. The science is ridiculous, the acting is so dramatic, and the music is way too emotional.

But somehow… I love it.

When I’m stressed out, I’ll throw one on because I know exactly what’s going to happen. The hero saves the world with some cheesy one-liner, and I can just sit back and enjoy the nonsense. It’s like comfort food for my brain.”

Phrases to learn:
“throw one on”
“over-the-top”
“comfort food for my brain”


Example 2: Instant Noodles – Relaxed & Personal

“Instant ramen. I know it’s basically just salty water and fake noodles, and it’s definitely not healthy…

But I love it. Especially when I’m tired after work.

It reminds me of my college days when I was broke and this was my ‘luxury’ meal.

Even now, after trying real ramen, sometimes I still go back to the cheap stuff. It’s terrible—but it hits the spot.”

Phrases to learn:
“It hits the spot”
“I was broke”
“luxury meal” (used ironically)


Example 3: Reality TV – Conversational Style

“Definitely reality dating shows. They’re totally fake and full of drama—and that’s exactly why I watch them.

After a long day, I don’t want anything deep or educational.

I just want to watch people argue over roses or cry over people they met a week ago.

It’s ridiculous and shallow, but weirdly addictive.”

Phrases to learn:
“deep or educational”
“argue over roses”
“weirdly addictive”


Example 4: Cringey Pop Songs – Short & Natural

“Those overly auto-tuned pop songs that everyone loves to hate.

You know, the ones with super repetitive lyrics?

They’re kind of terrible, but they get stuck in your head—and next thing you know, I’m dancing while doing the dishes.

I don’t even like them, but I do. It’s confusing.”

Phrases to learn:
“get stuck in your head”
“doing the dishes”
“I don’t even like them, but I do”


Useful Phrases for Your Own Answer

To admit it’s bad:
“I know it’s terrible, but…”
“It’s so bad, it’s kind of amazing.”
“It’s complete nonsense, and I love it.”

To explain why you enjoy it:
“There’s something about it that just works for me.”
“It makes no sense, but it makes me happy.”
“It’s my guilty pleasure.”

To make it personal:
“It reminds me of simpler times.”
“It takes me back to college/high school.”
“It’s like comfort food, but for entertainment.”


Speaking Tips

  • Keep your answer between 30 to 60 seconds
  • Use contractions and casual tone
  • Smile while speaking – it actually makes your voice sound friendlier
  • Use one clear example (don’t list too many things)
  • Don’t try to sound impressive—just sound real

Try It Yourself

Now it’s your turn!
Pick one thing you enjoy—even if people say it’s bad.
Use one of the example structures above, and speak out loud for 1 minute.

Need ideas? Try answering:
“What’s a terrible movie you secretly love?”
“What food do you like even though it’s unhealthy?”
“What silly thing makes you feel happy?”

The goal isn’t perfection.
It’s about sounding natural, relaxed, and human—that’s what real communication is all about.

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