develop a reputation for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "develop a reputation for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing how someone or something is perceived based on their actions or characteristics over time. Example: "The company has worked hard to develop a reputation for excellence in customer service."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

How did it develop a reputation for authority?

The New York Times

Atheists need to develop a reputation for patience and approachability.

The Guardian - Opinion

The craftsman would develop a reputation for careful work, which was good for business and would take immense pride in the finished product.

The New York Times

Soon after Gore got to Congress, he began to look for national issues on which he could develop a reputation for stature.

The New Yorker

But recently, the town has begun to develop a reputation for food that, while not eclipsing its artistic one, might at least be said to complement it.

The New York Times - Travel

In the sun kilns of Bagnall and Penkhull, local artisans started to glaze their earthenware and develop a reputation for craftsmanship.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Fez development cycle developed a reputation for its protracted five-year length and public exposure.

Wikipedia

He also developed a reputation for violence.

The New Yorker

He developed a reputation for fair-mindedness.

The New York Times

It developed a reputation for outstanding photography.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Duke also developed a reputation for being a womaniser.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use this phrase to highlight a deliberate effort to cultivate a specific perception, rather than an accidental or unintended outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "develop a reputation for" when referring to a single isolated incident. Reputation building takes time and consistent behavior.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "develop a reputation for" functions as a verb phrase indicating the process of establishing a particular public image or perception. It's used to describe how someone or something gradually becomes known for certain qualities or behaviors, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Wiki

18%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "develop a reputation for" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the gradual establishment of a particular public image. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is used across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media, to highlight the ongoing process of becoming known for specific qualities. When using this phrase, consider that building a reputation is an iterative process that requires consistency and time. While the phrase is versatile, keep in mind that other options like "build a reputation for" or "establish a reputation for" may be more appropriate depending on the nuance you intend to convey. Furthermore, be mindful of avoiding the common mistake of attributing a reputation to a single event.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

build a reputation for

Focuses more on the active construction of a reputation.

establish a reputation for

Implies a more solid and lasting foundation for the reputation.

create a reputation for

Emphasizes the act of bringing a reputation into existence.

acquire a reputation for

Suggests gaining a reputation, often passively or as a result of actions.

earn a reputation for

Highlights the idea that the reputation is deserved through effort or quality.

gain a reputation for

Similar to 'acquire', but can imply a more deliberate effort.

cultivate a reputation for

Implies careful and sustained effort to create and maintain a desired reputation.

foster a reputation for

Suggests nurturing and encouraging the growth of a specific reputation.

be known for

A more general way of saying someone has a certain reputation.

become recognized for

Highlights the process of becoming widely acknowledged for something.

FAQs

How can I "develop a reputation for" reliability in the workplace?

Consistently meet deadlines, honor commitments, and communicate proactively to foster a perception of dependability. You can also "build a reputation for" reliability.

What is the difference between "develop a reputation for" and "gain a reputation for"?

"Develop a reputation for" implies a more intentional, longer-term effort to create a specific image, while "gain a reputation for" suggests acquiring a reputation, sometimes passively, as a result of actions or circumstances. Check out "acquire a reputation for".

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "develop a reputation for"?

You can use phrases such as "build a reputation for", "establish a reputation for", or "become known for" depending on the context.

Is it better to "develop a reputation for" something intentionally, or let it happen organically?

While an organic reputation can be authentic, intentionally cultivating a reputation allows you to shape perceptions and align them with your goals and values. However, ensure your actions genuinely reflect the reputation you're trying to build or "create a reputation for".