cast aspersions on

USAGE SUMMARY

"cast aspersions on" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when you want to indicate that someone is making damaging or disparaging remarks about someone or something. Example: "The article seemed to cast aspersions on the integrity of the committee." Alternative expressions include "slander" and "disparage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And then he has the audacity to cast aspersions on the ones who caught him.

Huffington Post

To cast aspersions on a bewitched girl, to visit one's imprisoned spouse too regularly, was to risk accusation.

The New Yorker

The leaks have not exclusively cast aspersions on Clinton.

The Guardian

Who the hell is he to cast aspersions on others?

The Guardian - Opinion

This is not meant to cast aspersions on Florida Gulf Coast.

The New York Times

I don't want to cast aspersions on him... PK: So you know who it is?

Independent

Avon cast aspersions on its unwanted suitor's ability to finance a deal.

The New York Times

Bush pere had a soapbox, and from it he was determined to cast aspersions on broccoli.

The New York Times

Most panned out, but there were enough high-profile mishaps to cast aspersions on Tarkanian's motives.

The New York Times - Sports

Symphony orchestra musicians, in public at least, rarely cast aspersions on other orchestras.

The New York Times - Arts

But I don't want to cast aspersions on honest, blue-collar folk.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cast aspersions on" when you want to express a strong sense of disapproval and suggest that someone is unfairly damaging another's reputation.

Common error

Avoid using "cast aspersions on" in situations that require only mild criticism. This phrase carries a significant negative weight, so opt for milder alternatives like "criticize" or "question" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cast aspersions on" functions as a verb phrase, primarily used to express strong disapproval or to suggest that someone is making damaging remarks about another person or entity. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is commonly used and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cast aspersions on" is a widely recognized and grammatically sound phrase used to express strong disapproval or to suggest that someone is unfairly damaging another's reputation. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and provides numerous examples of its use in real-world scenarios. While versatile, users should be mindful of its intensity and choose milder alternatives when appropriate. The phrase effectively conveys negativity and aims to undermine credibility, making it a powerful tool in persuasive communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disparage

Similar to denigrate, this involves speaking negatively about someone or something to undermine their credibility.

vilify

This implies a deliberate attempt to portray someone in a negative light, often unfairly.

denigrate

This suggests a stronger level of criticism, aiming to diminish the reputation or value of something.

malign

This indicates speaking evil or harmful untruths about someone.

besmirch

This means to stain or tarnish someone's reputation.

criticize

This is a more general term for expressing disapproval, without necessarily implying malicious intent.

smear

This suggests spreading damaging and often untrue information about someone.

impugn

This suggests challenging or questioning someone's honesty or integrity.

slander

This refers to making false and damaging statements, often with legal implications.

defame

Similar to slander, but implies a more formal and public attack on someone's character.

FAQs

How can I use "cast aspersions on" in a sentence?

The phrase "cast aspersions on" is used to suggest that someone is making damaging or negative remarks about someone or something. Example: "The article seemed to "cast aspersions on" the integrity of the committee".

What are some alternatives to "cast aspersions on"?

You can use alternatives such as "criticize", "denigrate", or "disparage" depending on the context and the intensity of the criticism you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "cast aspersions on" in formal writing?

Yes, "cast aspersions on" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you want to emphasize the damaging nature of the remarks being made. However, be mindful of the tone and ensure it aligns with the overall message.

What's the difference between "cast aspersions on" and "criticize"?

"Cast aspersions on" implies a deliberate attempt to damage someone's reputation, while "criticize" is a more general term for expressing disapproval. The former carries a stronger negative connotation.