causing a scandal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "causing a scandal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action or event that leads to public outrage or controversy. Example: "The politician's controversial remarks were causing a scandal that dominated the news cycle for weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

But for some reason this isn't causing a scandal.

The New York Times

They turned me out like a dog, saying that I was causing a scandal".

Encyclopedia Britannica

The early fashion shows amped this up: models wore no bras under diaphanous knitwear, causing a scandal in fashion.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Worldwide, the looted-antiquities market could be as much as a multibillion-dollar industry, and in recent years several cases have revealed the role of smuggling in arts acquisition at the highest levels, causing a scandal in the art world.

The New Yorker

He was the first celebrated fashion designer to license his name to high-street stores – causing a scandal in the Parisian haute couture world but making so much money that others soon followed.

Independent

Having used Morley in the All Walks show, Fast went on to use her and other "large" models in his main show, causing a scandal when one stylist apparently walked out over the decision.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Such information could have caused a scandal.

Independent

The work caused a scandal.

The Guardian - Arts

Its original unveiling caused a scandal.

The Guardian

Art caused a scandal by falling asleep.

The New Yorker

This caused a scandal, and a great improvement.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "causing a scandal" when you want to emphasize the creation of public outrage and moral shock due to a particular event or action. Ensure the context clearly establishes that the event is widely considered immoral or inappropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "causing a scandal" in overly casual or trivial situations. Reserve it for events that genuinely generate significant public disapproval, not minor disagreements or personal faux pas.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "causing a scandal" typically functions as a verbal phrase that describes an action or event leading to public outrage. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Examples show it describing events in fashion, politics, and personal behavior.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "causing a scandal" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes an action or event leading to public outrage. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. While not extremely common, it appears frequently in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki sources. The phrase emphasizes the negative impact and moral implications of an action, prompting public disapproval. Alternatives like "sparking controversy" or "generating outrage" offer similar meanings with subtle differences. It's best to reserve "causing a scandal" for situations that genuinely generate significant public disapproval rather than trivial matters.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sparking controversy

This alternative highlights the act of initiating a debate or disagreement.

generating outrage

This alternative emphasizes the feeling of anger and shock that arises from the action.

creating a sensation

This alternative focuses on the widespread public interest and excitement, which may or may not be negative.

stirring up trouble

This alternative implies a deliberate or unintentional act of creating problems and disruptions.

provoking public outcry

This alternative emphasizes the public's reaction and dissent towards the action.

raising a furor

This alternative suggests a state of intense excitement and disturbance.

inciting uproar

This alternative suggests a loud and forceful expression of public disapproval.

becoming a public embarrassment

This alternative focuses on the shame and loss of dignity associated with the event.

making waves

This alternative emphasizes the disruptive and impactful nature of the action.

brewing a storm

This alternative suggests a situation where trouble or controversy is steadily developing.

FAQs

How can I use "causing a scandal" in a sentence?

You can use "causing a scandal" to describe an action or event that leads to public outrage or controversy. For example, "The politician's controversial remarks were "causing a scandal" that dominated the news cycle for weeks."

What are some alternatives to "causing a scandal"?

Alternatives include "sparking controversy", "generating outrage", or "stirring up trouble", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to say something is "causing a scandal"?

Yes, using "causing a scandal" generally implies a negative judgment. It suggests that the event or action is considered immoral, inappropriate, or harmful by a significant portion of the public.

What is the difference between "causing a scandal" and "creating a controversy"?

"Causing a scandal" implies a stronger element of moral outrage and shock, while "creating a controversy" may simply mean generating disagreement or debate without necessarily implying widespread moral disapproval.