speak/think ill of somebody
speak ill of (someone or something)
To say malicious, objectionable, or defamatory things about someone or something. I've just always had the philosophy that it does no good to speak ill of anyone, so instead I direct that energy toward finding solutions to problems. Anyone who speaks ill of the government in this country runs the risk of being thrown in prison, or worse. You say we shouldn't speak ill of the dead, but we should never forget the misdeeds of those who were once in power, lest history repeats itself.
See also: ill, of, speak
think ill of (someone or something)
To have a poor or disdainful opinion about someone; to hold someone or something in low regard or esteem. I hope they don't think ill of me for leaving my job so suddenly. I could tell the board thought ill of my proposal.
See also: ill, of, think
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
speak ill of someone
to say something bad about someone. I refuse to speak ill of any of my friends. Max speaks ill of no one and refuses to repeat gossip.
See also: ill, of, speak
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
speak/think ˈill of somebody
(formal) say or think bad things about somebody: You shouldn’t speak ill of the dead.See also: ill, of, somebody, speak, think
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- speak ill of
- speak ill of (someone or something)
- don't speak ill of the dead
- never speak ill of the dead
- you shouldn't speak ill of the dead
- oughtta
- there ought to be a law
- There ought to be a law!
- there oughta be a law
- throw enough dirt, and some will stick