bad reputation

USAGE SUMMARY

'bad reputation' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone or something having a generally poor opinion among the public. For example: "John's bad reputation preceded him and made it difficult for him to get hired."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They have a bad reputation.

The New York Times

RAVENS have a bad reputation.

The Economist

She had a bad reputation.

Independent

Maybe I had a bad reputation.

The New York Times - Arts

FISH farming has a bad reputation.

The Economist

That's not such a bad reputation.

The New York Times

You're getting a very bad reputation.

The New Yorker

Summer school, though, has a bad reputation.

The New York Times

We had a very bad reputation".

The New York Times

"She fears the bad reputation," he said.

The New Yorker

It may have a bad reputation.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bad reputation", consider the specific aspect of negativity you want to emphasize: trustworthiness, public perception, or moral character. Choose synonyms that reflect that specific nuance.

Common error

Avoid simply stating someone has a "bad reputation" without providing context. Explain why they have this reputation. Specific details make your writing more impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bad reputation" functions as a noun phrase, where 'bad' is an adjective modifying the noun 'reputation'. It describes the quality or state of someone or something's public image or standing. Ludwig examples showcase its use in various contexts to denote a negative perception.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

24%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bad reputation" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a negative public perception. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English. It appears most frequently in news and media, indicating its relevance in discussing public figures, organizations, or events. For greater impact, replace "bad reputation" with more descriptive alternatives like "tarnished image" or "negative public perception" to add nuance and specificity to your writing. Always consider providing context to why someone has a "bad reputation" for enhanced clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ill repute

A more formal or archaic way of saying "bad reputation".

negative public perception

Emphasizes the viewpoint of the general public.

poor image

Focuses on the visual or projected aspect of the negative perception.

dubious reputation

Highlights uncertainty or skepticism about someone's character or actions.

tarnished image

Implies that something once good has been stained or ruined.

unfavorable light

Suggests being seen in a negative or disadvantageous way.

damaged credibility

Highlights a loss of trustworthiness or reliability.

notorious status

Indicates being widely and unfavorably known.

discredited name

Refers specifically to a loss of good standing for a person or organization.

shady character

Implies dishonesty or untrustworthiness.

FAQs

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

You can use "bad reputation" to describe someone or something that is generally viewed negatively, like: "The company earned a "bad reputation" due to its unethical practices." or "He had a "bad reputation" for being unreliable."

What's a more formal way to say "bad reputation"?

A more formal alternative to "bad reputation" is "ill repute". This phrase carries a similar meaning but is often used in more formal or literary contexts.

What are some near synonyms of "bad reputation"?

Similar terms include "poor image", "negative public perception", or "tarnished image". These phrases emphasize different aspects of the negative perception.

Is it always negative to have a "bad reputation"?

Yes, the term "bad reputation" always implies a negative public perception or standing. It suggests that someone or something is viewed unfavorably by others.