The term 'Bad Beginning' can be broken down into three crossword solutions: MISSTART (8 letters), MAL (3 letters), and DYS (3 letters). MISSTART is a verb meaning to start something in a wrong or unfortunate way. MAL is an adjective meaning bad or evil. DYS is an adjective meaning difficult or impaired. Together, these three words describe a situation that has started off in a wrong, evil, and difficult manner.