an appalling track record

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an appalling track record" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a history of poor performance or negative outcomes in a particular context, such as business, sports, or personal behavior. Example: "The company has an appalling track record when it comes to customer service, leading to numerous complaints and lost clients."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The Bush administration has an appalling track record when it comes to being prepared for worst-case scenarios.

The New York Times

"The hard facts are that Malaysia is a country that has an appalling track record in systematically abusing and mistreating asylum seekers".

The New York Times

He comes from radical traditions on both sides of his family, yet unlike many anti-capitalists, he is clear-eyed that leftwing revolutions have an appalling track record.

The Guardian

The Russians have an appalling track record on environmental safety – the way they have dumped radioactive waste into Arctic waters bears ample testimony to that – while ExxonMobil's critics allege that a company so concerned about shareholder returns could be tempted to cut costs and take environmental risks.

The Guardian - Opinion

The company has an appalling track record - it has shown no respect for human rights, the environment or for local communities.

Huffington Post

In the groups' statement, Kate Geary of Oxfam said the bank has an "appalling track record when it comes to protecting people moved from their homes and livelihoods as a result of Bank-funded projects.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Despite the government having a truly appalling track record of managing such major projects they want to press ahead.

The Guardian

That's why Kez must promote pluralism – a voluntary sector, for example, free to criticise the SNP government, able to point out their appalling track record on inequality.

The Guardian - Opinion

Two prisons, Pleasant Valley State Prison and Avenal State Prison, stand out for their appalling track records.

The New Yorker

"The recommendation that DfID should engage greater private-sector involvement in nutrition is alarming, given the food industry's appalling global track record of producing and promoting unhealthy food, and the clear evidence in favour of public provision of health services".

The Guardian

A company with a bad track record.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an appalling track record", provide specific examples or evidence to support the claim. This adds credibility to your statement and helps the reader understand the severity of the situation.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the severity of the "appalling track record" with excessive emotional language. Instead, focus on presenting factual information and objective data to support your claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an appalling track record" functions as a descriptive noun phrase. It is typically used to characterize someone or something as having a history of notably poor or unacceptable performance, as seen in examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an appalling track record" is a descriptor used to denote a consistent history of poor performance. According to Ludwig AI, its usage is grammatically correct and most frequently encountered in news and media contexts. While the phrase conveys strong disapproval, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for formal analysis. To enhance credibility, it's advisable to support its usage with concrete evidence. Alternatives such as "dismal record" or "terrible performance record" can provide similar meaning. Therefore, when you want to communicate consistent poor performance in a neutral tone, "an appalling track record" can be a proper choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dreadful history

Replaces "appalling track record" with a simpler, more direct term for a very bad past.

a terrible performance record

Focuses specifically on "performance", making it suitable when discussing tasks or duties.

a dismal record

Uses "dismal" to suggest a depressing or discouraging history.

a lamentable history

Emphasizes the regret or sorrow associated with the negative past performance.

a shameful record

Highlights the aspect of disgrace or embarrassment associated with the negative performance.

a history of failure

Directly states the consistent lack of success.

a litany of errors

Suggests a long list of mistakes or problems.

a trail of blunders

Similar to "litany of errors" but uses more vivid imagery to portray a series of significant mistakes.

a problematic history

Suggests a past filled with difficulties and issues.

a checkered past

Implies a mix of good and bad events in the past, but with a predominantly negative connotation.

FAQs

What does "an appalling track record" mean?

The phrase "an appalling track record" refers to a consistently poor history of performance or outcomes in a particular area. It suggests that someone or something has repeatedly failed or performed badly.

How can I use "an appalling track record" in a sentence?

You can use "an appalling track record" to describe a company, organization, or individual that has a history of negative results. For example: "The company has "an appalling track record" when it comes to environmental protection."

What are some alternatives to "an appalling track record"?

Some alternatives to "an appalling track record" include "dismal record", "terrible performance record", or "history of failure".

Is it appropriate to use "an appalling track record" in formal writing?

Yes, "an appalling track record" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when providing analysis or criticism. However, ensure that your use of the phrase is supported by evidence and presented objectively.