Scandalous reputation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Scandalous reputation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is known for causing public outrage or disapproval due to immoral or unethical behavior. Example: "The politician's scandalous reputation made it difficult for him to gain the trust of the voters."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

The Kremlin said the report was based on a whistleblower with a "scandalous reputation".

The Guardian - Sport

The place has a slightly scandalous reputation, for its glorification of the old hyper-nationalist movements, and no wonder.

The New Yorker

One evening Hermangarde's grandmother, the Marquise de Flers (Claude Sarraute, wonderfully sly and twinkling), confronts Ryno about his scandalous reputation.

The New York Times

The extravagance hit a peak in 1980 when Jean-Claude married Michele Bennett, a mulatto divorcee with a scandalous reputation and expensive tastes.

The Washington Post

Back in Atlanta, her mildly scandalous reputation is made more so by her first marriage, to Red Upshaw, a bootlegging rake.

The New York Times - Arts

"I don't like him because of his arrogant tone, his scandalous reputation and because people believe that he has special influence on the Kremlin".

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

And how did they maintain their prominence despite their scandalous reputations?

Columbia University

He also acquired a scandalous public reputation for his extravagant lifestyle, decadent parties, and unconcealed drug habit.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And the company has struggled to drop its scandalous sexting reputation, which could expose it to lawsuits as a significant portion of its core users are minors.

TechCrunch

What makes a scandal scandalous?

The Guardian - Music

The scene in which Marsden decides to spurn the tradition of a maiden's wearing a white gown to a dress ball, choosing instead to appear in "scandalous" red, seals her reputation as a headstrong flouter of societal mores.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone with a "scandalous reputation", provide specific examples or context to support the claim. This adds credibility and prevents vague accusations.

Common error

Avoid using "scandalous reputation" as a generic descriptor. Ensure the individual or entity has genuinely been involved in actions that have caused widespread public outrage or disapproval. Be cautious of hyperbole.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scandalous reputation" functions as a descriptive phrase, where "scandalous" modifies the noun "reputation". It is used to characterize someone or something as having a history or public image marked by scandalous events or behavior. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "scandalous reputation" is a descriptive term used to denote a negative public image resulting from scandalous actions or events. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. This phrase is most frequently found in news and media, followed by academia and encyclopedias, indicating its relevance across different domains. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, it carries a strong negative connotation and should be used accurately and with specific context to avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives like "notorious reputation" or "disreputable character" may be considered depending on the specific nuances one wishes to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Notorious reputation

Emphasizes widespread infamy and negative recognition.

Disreputable character

Focuses on moral deficiency and lack of respectability.

Tainted image

Highlights the damage to someone's public appearance.

Damaged credibility

Implies a loss of trust and reliability.

Questionable record

Suggests doubts and concerns about past actions.

Shady past

Highlights a hidden or secretive history of questionable activities.

Compromised integrity

Suggests a weakening of moral principles and honesty.

Dubious standing

Indicates uncertainty and lack of confidence in someone's position or reputation.

Controversial persona

Emphasizes that a person's public image and behavior generate disagreement or disapproval.

Unsavory history

Implies unpleasant or morally objectionable events in the past.

FAQs

How can I accurately describe someone with a "scandalous reputation"?

Provide specific details of the scandalous actions or events that led to their negative public image. This provides context and validates the claim.

What are some alternatives to "scandalous reputation"?

Consider using terms like "notorious reputation", "disreputable character", or "tainted image" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "scandalous reputation" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, the term "scandalous reputation" can be strong. In formal writing, consider milder alternatives like "questionable record" or "controversial persona" if appropriate.

What distinguishes a "scandalous reputation" from a "bad reputation"?

A "scandalous reputation" implies that the negative perception stems from specific, widely publicized incidents that caused public outrage. A "bad reputation" can be more general and based on various factors beyond blatant scandals.