are tainted by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are tainted by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has been negatively affected or contaminated by a particular influence or factor. Example: "The results of the study are tainted by the biases of the researchers involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Parliamentary debates are tainted by racial mud-slinging.

The Economist

Both of the women are tainted by guilt.

Britannica

Huge swaths of its political class are tainted by corruption.

The Washington Post

But we are tainted by the harm we cause.

The New Yorker

These laws still stand, but are tainted by their association with the former regime.

The Economist

Comparisons in test performance are tainted by several factors, particularly parent involvement.

The New York Times - Magazine

Naturally, this harms those who want to impose controls: they are tainted by association.

The Economist

If managers are tainted by scandal, however remotely, they clearly need to go.

The New York Times

In Connecticut, the E.P.A. estimated that 100 to 300 water wells are tainted by gasoline additives.

The New York Times

Outraged opponents say Mr. Flick and his collection are tainted by a poisonous past.

The New York Times - Arts

It's a shame that perceptions of music are tainted by prior knowledge.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are tainted by", ensure that the subject is something that can logically be contaminated or negatively influenced. This phrasing is effective for conveying a sense of damage or corruption.

Common error

Avoid using "are tainted by" in situations where a neutral or positive influence is intended. This phrase carries a negative connotation and should be reserved for contexts involving corruption, contamination, or degradation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are tainted by" functions as a passive voice construction indicating that a subject has been negatively affected or contaminated by something. Ludwig confirms its validity and widespread use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

12%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are tainted by" is a common and grammatically correct passive construction used to express that something has been negatively affected or corrupted by a particular influence. Ludwig AI validates its usage across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media, academia, and encyclopedias. When employing this phrase, ensure the context warrants its negative connotation, as it is unsuitable for neutral or positive situations. To expand your writing toolkit, consider alternatives like "are corrupted by" or "are marred by", but remember each carries subtle differences in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are corrupted by

Emphasizes a loss of purity or integrity due to a negative influence.

are contaminated by

Highlights the presence of undesirable elements that spoil or pollute something.

are marred by

Focuses on the damage or imperfection caused by something negative.

are blemished by

Suggests a superficial flaw or imperfection that detracts from overall quality.

are compromised by

Indicates a weakening or undermining of integrity or effectiveness.

are affected by

A more general term indicating an influence, which may or may not be negative.

are influenced negatively by

Specifically indicates a negative impact or effect.

suffer from the effects of

Highlights the adverse consequences resulting from a particular cause.

are colored by

Suggests that something is viewed or understood in a particular way due to an influence.

are undermined by

Focuses on something being weakened gradually or insidiously.

FAQs

What does it mean for something to be "are tainted by" something?

When something is described as "are tainted by", it means that it has been negatively affected or contaminated by a particular influence, often suggesting a loss of purity or integrity.

Which is a better alternative to "are tainted by": "are affected by" or "are influenced by"?

While "are affected by" and "are influenced by" are alternatives, they are more neutral. "Are tainted by" specifically implies a negative impact or contamination.

Can "are tainted by" be used in a positive context?

No, the phrase "are tainted by" carries a negative connotation, suggesting corruption or contamination. It is not appropriate for use in positive contexts.

How can I use "are tainted by" in a sentence?

Use "are tainted by" when you want to express that something has been negatively impacted or corrupted by a particular influence. For example: "The politician's reputation and credibility are tainted by the corruption scandal."