What it means
Used to say something's rubbish, naff, or a let-down. Very British, very handy, and usually aimed at films, plans, food, weather, service, whatever's gone a bit wonky. If you say something is pants, you're not talking about underwear, you're saying it was crap in a fairly mild, cheeky way.
Usage examples
"How was that new sequel then? Proper pants, mate, they binned all the good bits. I’m gutted, had the snacks ready and everything."
"Tried that burger place everyone raves about and honestly it was pants, cold chips and a soggy bun."
"The first half was pants, but they turned it around after the break and nicked a win at the death."
"That pub looked decent online but the roast was absolutely pants, Yorkshire pud like a kitchen sponge."
"We queued up for ages and the gig ended after forty minutes. Bit pants, if I'm honest."
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Where it comes from
This British use of pants took off in the late 20th century, especially in the 90s. It comes from the older word for underpants, with the insult landing through mild embarrassment and silliness. That’s why it feels cheeky rather than savage, a soft little boot when something’s a bit rubbish.
Other ways to say it
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