attract flak

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "attract flak" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe receiving criticism or backlash for a particular action or statement. Example: "The politician's controversial remarks are sure to attract flak from the media and the public."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

And celebrities will also attract flak for carrying dull phones.

Forbes

Jeff Bezos is the wealthiest man in the world, and Elon Musk probably its highest-profile billionaire; of course they're going to attract flak from all sides.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Kingsholm is not the most welcoming place for referees either and the Irishman Donal Courtney attracted flak from both managers.

The Guardian - Sport

Glenn, to whom Mendes said he merely provided some ground training, had a cheeky nickname implying that he attracted flak like a magnet.

The New York Times - Sports

Not surprisingly, Mr de la Rua's idea has attracted flak from all the political parties, except the small force led by Mr Cavallo.

The Economist

As it is, she has gone into the family business – attracting flak from some critics who mutter that she simply isn't as good.

The Guardian - Music

The governor of Illinois's alleged attempt to sell Mr Obama's old Senate seat has also proved embarrassing, but reasonable people can hardly blame Mr Obama for that.Some of the new cabinet are attracting flak for their beliefs.

The Economist

The timing of her post attracted flak from some people on Twitter who pointed out that a surveillance air craft was hovering above the Yemeni capital and that that there had been a suspected US drone strike in the east of the country.

The Guardian

Johnston has attracted flak for his stance as the Scottish Premier League rejected the newco's application.

BBC

The plan to be announced this week touches many political bases, and predictably has already attracted flak from right and left.

Huffington Post

But its likely to attract similar flak.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "attract flak" when you want to convey that someone or something is likely to receive criticism or negative attention, often due to a controversial action or statement. The phrase suggests the criticism is expected or predictable.

Common error

Avoid using "attract flak" in overly formal or academic writing where more neutral terms like "draw criticism" or "invite scrutiny" might be more appropriate. The phrase has a slightly informal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "attract flak" functions as a verb phrase indicating that someone or something is likely to receive criticism. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, which show the phrase used in contexts where actions or statements are expected to generate negative responses.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "attract flak" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes the act of receiving criticism or negative attention. According to Ludwig AI, it is typically used when the criticism is expected or predictable, especially following a controversial action or statement. While slightly informal, it is well-suited for news and media contexts, as evidenced by its usage in sources like The Guardian and Forbes. If a more formal tone is needed, alternatives like "draw criticism" or "face backlash" can be used. Overall, "attract flak" is a concise and effective way to convey the anticipation of negative feedback.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

draw criticism

Replaces "flak" with the more general term "criticism", focusing on negative feedback.

invite criticism

Highlights the action of causing criticism to arise.

face backlash

Emphasizes the strong, often negative reaction received.

receive condemnation

Focuses on a formal expression of strong disapproval.

become a target of criticism

Highlights being the recipient of sustained critical attention.

provoke disapproval

Stresses the action of causing others to disapprove.

elicit negative feedback

Focuses on obtaining unwanted or unfavorable opinions.

generate controversy

Emphasizes causing public debate and disagreement.

stir up a storm

Implies causing a significant disturbance or uproar.

open oneself to attack

Highlights the vulnerability to criticism and opposition.

FAQs

What does it mean to "attract flak"?

To "attract flak" means to receive criticism or negative attention, often as a consequence of a controversial action, statement, or situation.

What can I say instead of "attract flak"?

You can use alternatives like "draw criticism", "face backlash", or "invite scrutiny" depending on the context.

Is "attract flak" a formal or informal expression?

"Attract flak" is generally considered a slightly informal expression, best suited for news, opinion pieces, or less formal contexts. More formal alternatives exist for academic or professional writing.

How is "attract flak" different from "draw criticism"?

While both phrases describe receiving negative attention, "attract flak" often implies the criticism is more intense or widespread. "Draw criticism" is generally a more neutral and less dramatic way to express the same idea.