a sterling reputation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sterling reputation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is highly regarded and has an excellent reputation. Example: "The company has built a sterling reputation for its commitment to quality and customer service."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Lenz sparklers have acquired a sterling reputation.

The New York Times

This tumult is new to the ballet, which has enjoyed a sterling reputation locally for decades.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Stillman, 75, has built a sterling reputation over four decades.

The New York Times

This guy enjoyed a sterling reputation, especially if you were white.

The New York Times

Pedreira liked her job, and she had a sterling reputation among her peers.

The New York Times - Magazine

Even before Daubert, "handwriting evidence never had a sterling reputation in court," Professor Mnookin said.

The New York Times

In fact, he is more likely to be a well-dressed man with a sterling reputation.

The New York Times

In an age when even a sterling reputation can be quickly tarnished, the answers are not entirely comforting.

The New York Times

Over time she earned a sterling reputation for the keen intelligence and focused intensity of her interpretations.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Owens was earning a sterling reputation for creating new works, one that he embraced with caution.

The New York Times - Arts

It was written by Hugo Black, a justice who otherwise had a sterling reputation as a civil libertarian.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sterling reputation" to convey a sense of high quality and trustworthiness that has been consistently maintained over time. This phrase works well when describing individuals, organizations, or products.

Common error

While "a sterling reputation" is a strong phrase, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "excellent reputation" or "stellar reputation" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sterling reputation" functions as a noun phrase, with "sterling" acting as an adjective modifying "reputation". This phrase is often used to describe someone or something with a very positive and well-deserved public image, as Ludwig AI confirms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

11%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sterling reputation" is a common phrase used to describe someone or something with a very positive and well-deserved public image. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts and conveys a strong sense of trustworthiness and reliability. While alternatives like "excellent reputation" or "stellar reputation" exist, "a sterling reputation" carries a slightly more formal and established tone. Be mindful of overusing the phrase and consider varying your language to maintain reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fine reputation

Replaces "sterling" with a simpler, more general adjective indicating quality.

an excellent reputation

Substitutes "sterling" with a more common synonym for high quality.

a stellar reputation

Uses "stellar" to emphasize the outstanding nature of the reputation.

a distinguished reputation

Emphasizes the respect and honor associated with the reputation.

a notable reputation

Highlights that the reputation is worthy of attention or recognition.

a remarkable reputation

Stresses the exceptional and noteworthy nature of the reputation.

a strong reputation

Focuses on the robustness and resilience of the positive image.

a solid reputation

Indicates a stable and dependable positive image.

a laudable reputation

Uses "laudable" to highlight that the reputation is worthy of praise and commendation.

an unblemished reputation

Implies a perfect reputation, free from any flaws or negative marks.

FAQs

How can I use "a sterling reputation" in a sentence?

You can use "a sterling reputation" to describe someone or something that is highly regarded. For example, "The company has "a sterling reputation" for its customer service."

What are some alternatives to "a sterling reputation"?

Alternatives include "a fine reputation", "an excellent reputation", or "a stellar reputation".

What does it mean to have "a sterling reputation"?

To have "a sterling reputation" means to be highly respected and admired for consistently demonstrating excellence and integrity.

Is it better to say "sterling reputation" or "good reputation"?

"Sterling reputation" implies a higher degree of excellence and trustworthiness than just a "good reputation". It suggests a long-standing and unblemished record.