Blue ribbon is typically a term used to express excellence and prestige. However, there are several antonyms to this word. Mediocrity, insignificance, amateurishness can be used to describe the opposite of blue ribbon. While blue ribbon denotes the best quality, substandard, unimpressive, and average describe the antonyms of this word. Other antonyms for blue ribbon might include second rate or subpar - these terms indicate that something is not up to the highest standard of quality. Finally, unexceptional or ordinary might suggest that something is not noteworthy or memorable in any way, which is the opposite of what blue ribbon implies.