brunt of the criticism

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "brunt of the criticism" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the main or heaviest part of criticism directed at someone or something. Example: "The new policy faced backlash, and the manager took the brunt of the criticism from the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Brooks bore the brunt of the criticism.

The New York Times - Sports

Left guard Kevin Boothe said the line was unfairly taking the brunt of the criticism.

The New York Times - Sports

Klinsmann takes the brunt of the criticism for his tactical shortcomings and player selections.

The New York Times

If the USA does lose, he's going to get the brunt of the criticism.

The Guardian - Sport

If Cameroon flop, he will bear the brunt of the criticism.

The Guardian - Sport

When it comes to climate change negotiations, rich countries receive the brunt of the criticism.

The Guardian - Opinion

Ward took the brunt of the criticism because most of the quotes were attributed to him.

The New York Times - Sports

Meatpackers have taken the brunt of the criticism, but retailers are also coming under scrutiny.

The New York Times

Stephon Marbury, the only Knick with star-caliber N.B.A. credentials, has taken the brunt of the criticism.

The New York Times

Brodeur took the brunt of the criticism, which, as Langenbrunner pointed out, is part of the job description.

The New York Times - Sports

When it came to assigning blame for how that all got started, Mr. Giuliani took the brunt of the criticism.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

If you want to emphasize the unfairness of the situation, you could say that somebody is unfairly taking the "brunt of the criticism".

Common error

Avoid using "brunt of the criticism" if the criticism is evenly distributed among multiple parties. Make sure that there is a single, clear focus of negative attention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "brunt of the criticism" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., "take", "bear", "receive"). As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is a common expression used to identify the primary target of disapproval or negative feedback.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "brunt of the criticism" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate the primary target of negative feedback. As Ludwig AI confirms, it accurately conveys who or what is facing the most significant amount of criticism. Predominantly found in news and media sources, this phrase serves to highlight accountability and responsibility. To use it effectively, make sure that the criticism is indeed focused and directed towards a clear target. Also, remember that while the expression implies heavy criticism, it doesn't necessarily mean the target is unfairly blamed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main target of criticism

Emphasizes the targeting aspect of the criticism.

chief recipient of criticism

Highlights the role of receiving the criticism.

primary focus of blame

Shifts the focus slightly towards blame rather than general criticism.

major share of criticism

Focuses on the amount or proportion of criticism received.

bulk of the condemnation

Uses a stronger term ("condemnation") to imply harsher criticism.

worst of the disapproval

Highlights the negative aspect of the criticism as disapproval.

sharpest criticism

Focuses on the intensity and severity of the criticism.

lion's share of the censure

Uses "censure", a more formal word for criticism, indicating a stronger disapproval.

harshest judgment

Shifts the focus to the judgment aspect of the criticism.

center of controversy

While not directly about criticism, indicates being the focal point of a negative public discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "brunt of the criticism" in a sentence?

You can use "brunt of the criticism" to indicate who or what is facing the most significant or intense criticism. For example, "The manager took the "brunt of the criticism" for the team's poor performance."

What phrases can I use instead of "brunt of the criticism"?

Alternatives include "main target of criticism", "chief recipient of criticism", or "primary focus of blame". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. Each phrase offers a slightly different way to express the idea of being the main recipient of negativity or disapproval.

Is it correct to say someone "bears" or "takes" the "brunt of the criticism"?

Both "bears" and "takes" are grammatically correct and commonly used with "brunt of the criticism". They both effectively convey the idea of someone enduring or receiving the main force of the criticism. For example, you can say that "The England captain has borne the "brunt of the criticism"" or "The player took the "brunt of the criticism"".

What's the difference between "brunt of the criticism" and "scapegoat"?

While both terms relate to blame, "brunt of the criticism" simply indicates the main recipient of negative feedback, while "scapegoat" implies that someone is unfairly blamed, often to deflect responsibility from others. Taking the "brunt of the criticism" doesn't necessarily mean that the target is undeserving of such feedback; it only means they are the main recipient.