dark associations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dark associations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe negative or sinister connections or implications related to a person, idea, or situation. Example: "The painting evokes dark associations that make the viewer feel uneasy and introspective."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

It has too many dark associations and also defines itself negatively, against what it opposes, not what it stands for.

The Guardian - Opinion

In fairness, its organisers may feel they have done enough for the Byzantine world by dispelling some dark associations.

The Economist

No matter where they are fired, or against whom, U.S. cruise missiles always raise these dark associations in the minds of Russia's political élite.

The New Yorker

This is an observation by Carter, not an excuse, because he tells players that stereotyping will lead them nowhere, that dark associations will find light in a see-all society, and that, first and foremost, "They have to grow up".

The New York Times - Sports

Unlike many of his contemporaries, Mr. Widmark never quite shook the dark associations of his early roles, even after his studio, 20th Century Fox, rehabilitated him as a leading man.

The New York Times

Mr. Obama's aides described several categories of potential attack: Obama as "dashiki-wearing black nationalist"; "secret Muslim"; "anti-Israel"; and "a black man from crime-ridden Chicago who was too lenient on crime with dark associations".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

For Van Gogh this painting captured the dark romantic association of genius and insanity.

The Guardian - Arts

It continues to be difficult to disentangle myself from early associations: dark and dirty, filled with cigarette smoke, the smell of body odor and emotional paralysis.

Huffington Post

It supported the view that the peptides may be incorporated close to the tryptophan residue in the proteins and formed a close association (dark complex) and quenched fluorescence [26].

Chemistry Central Journal

Yet contractors may still contribute to dark-money trade associations (like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce) and nonprofits (like Karl Rove's Crossroads GPS).

Huffington Post

The eye sees two lights coming down a dark road; they trigger associations in the brain.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "dark associations", ensure that the context clearly establishes what those associations are. Provide specific examples or explanations to avoid ambiguity and ensure the reader understands the intended negative implications.

Common error

Avoid using "dark associations" purely for dramatic effect without providing substantial evidence or reasoning. Overusing the phrase can weaken its impact and make your writing seem sensationalist rather than informative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dark associations" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "dark" modifies the noun "associations". It typically serves to describe the nature or quality of the associations being referenced.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "dark associations" is a grammatically sound and valid English expression used to denote negative or sinister connections. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is appropriate for formal writing and appears in various contexts such as The New York Times and The Guardian. While not exceedingly common, it serves a specific purpose in evoking a sense of unease or foreboding. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context clearly defines the associations to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "negative connotations" or "sinister implications" may be considered depending on the specific nuance required. While the phrase "dark associations" is valid, exercise discretion and avoid overuse for purely sensational purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

negative connotations

Focuses on the negative implications or feelings associated with something.

unpleasant connections

Highlights the disagreeable or undesirable links between things.

unfavorable associations

Indicates negative or disadvantageous connections.

sinister implications

Emphasizes the threatening or evil nature of the implied meanings.

ominous undertones

Suggests a subtle but threatening quality or feeling.

troubling aspects

Points out the worrying or disturbing elements of something.

shadowy links

Implies secretive or hidden connections that are often undesirable.

ill repute

Focuses on a bad reputation or disrepute.

tainted relationships

Describes relationships that have been corrupted or damaged.

shady dealings

Refers to questionable or dishonest business practices.

FAQs

What does "dark associations" mean?

The phrase "dark associations" refers to negative or sinister connections, implications, or connotations linked to a person, place, thing, or idea. It suggests an underlying sense of something unpleasant or troubling.

How can I use "dark associations" in a sentence?

You can use "dark associations" to describe the negative or sinister implications of something. For example: "The old house had "negative connotations" because of its history of tragic events".

What are some alternatives to "dark associations"?

Some alternatives include "negative connotations", "sinister implications", or "unpleasant connections" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "dark associations" in formal writing?

Yes, the phrase "dark associations" is appropriate for formal writing as long as it accurately and appropriately describes the subject matter. However, ensure the context warrants such a strong and negative characterization.