Low-grade
(adjective)
Of a low or inferior quality or standard.
Origin:
The term "low-grade" is derived from the adjective "low" which means "not high or tall; near the ground" and "grade" which means "a level or standard of quality." the use of the hyphen in the word "low-grade" emphasizes the compound nature of the word, and its association with the concept of quality.
Examples:
- The student received a low-grade on the test due to not studying properly.
- The company was producing low-grade goods, which resulted in many customer complaints.
- The patient was diagnosed with a low-grade fever, which was easily treated with over-the-counter medication.
- The book received low-grade reviews from critics.
- The soup was low-grade, it lacked flavor and was watery.