get whitewashed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get whitewashed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is sanitized or made to appear more favorable, often by omitting negative aspects. Example: "The company's history was whitewashed in the documentary, leaving out any mention of its controversial practices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"I was fearing the worst and that I would get whitewashed," Jones told BBC Wales Sport.

BBC

"I wasn't going to let the show get whitewashed," Richardson said.

Vice

"I know there are many histories that get whitewashed," said Chee, referring to versions of American history that downplay the persecution of native people.

Huffington Post

"And when you get whitewashed, that's a little slap... an insult". Ruscha feels "lonely that I'm not able to watch the traffic of Hill Street 24 hours a day". And Hill Street feels lonelier for not being able to watch him back.

Los Angeles Times

"I will not let my son get whitewashed when he has these deep roots," Ms. Flores said.

The New York Times

One is marketing and one is art". The current uncertainty is forcing some artists to choose whether to devote time and money into murals that might get whitewashed.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

"We got whitewashed today.

The New York Times - Sports

"We have to uphold its integrity, even if it gets whitewashed".

The New York Times

If you closed your eyes, you would not have known the home team was getting whitewashed.

The New York Times - Sports

These kinds of ubiquitous temporary walls, with their "Post No Bills" stencils, are not usually a preferred canvas for street artists because "your work just gets whitewashed over in a second by the construction workers," said an artist who calls himself El Celso.

The New York Times - Arts

"More offensive, more whitewashed, even more hackishly made".

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations of "get whitewashed". It often implies a deliberate attempt to deceive or mislead, so use it judiciously and make sure it aligns with your intended message.

Common error

Avoid using "get whitewashed" in contexts where a neutral or objective description is intended. This phrase carries a negative connotation of deception or manipulation and is not appropriate for describing simple cleaning or renovation activities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get whitewashed" functions as a verb phrase in the passive voice, indicating that the subject is undergoing an action. Ludwig AI shows examples where it describes the intentional removal or covering up of unfavorable information. It suggests that someone or something is being presented in a more positive light than reality would dictate.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "get whitewashed" is a verb phrase indicating that something has been deliberately sanitized or misrepresented. According to Ludwig AI, it is primarily used in news and media contexts to express criticism or skepticism towards attempts to deceive or mislead. While grammatically correct, its negative connotation should be considered carefully. Alternatives such as "be sanitized" or "be glossed over" may be more appropriate in formal settings. Be mindful of the context to avoid unintended negative implications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be sanitized

Focuses on the act of removing objectionable or unpleasant features to make something more acceptable.

be glossed over

Highlights the act of covering up or treating something lightly to avoid addressing its true significance or problems.

be sugarcoated

Emphasizes making something appear more pleasant or acceptable than it actually is by presenting it in a deceptively positive way.

be cleaned up

Implies removing unwanted or undesirable elements to create a more presentable version.

be given a makeover

Suggests a transformation aimed at improving appearance or perception, often concealing underlying issues.

be airbrushed

Implies subtle manipulation to remove imperfections and create a flawless image, often distorting reality.

be expurgated

Highlights the act of removing objectionable parts, often in literature or other forms of content.

be deodorized

Focuses on eliminating unpleasant aspects, making something more palatable or less offensive.

be romanticized

Emphasizes making something seem more appealing or idealized than it actually is, often distorting reality.

be euphemized

Involves using milder or more indirect terms to avoid being offensive or blunt.

FAQs

How can I use "get whitewashed" in a sentence?

The phrase "get whitewashed" is used to describe a situation where unfavorable information is deliberately omitted to present a more positive or acceptable view. For example: "The company's history was "get whitewashed" in the documentary, leaving out any mention of its controversial practices."

What are some alternatives to "get whitewashed"?

You can use alternatives like "be sanitized", "be glossed over", or "be sugarcoated" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean for something to "get whitewashed"?

When something ""get whitewashed"", it means that negative or controversial aspects have been deliberately omitted or minimized to create a more favorable or acceptable impression.

Is "get whitewashed" formal or informal?

The phrase ""get whitewashed"" is generally considered informal but can be used in news and media contexts where a critical or accusatory tone is appropriate. In formal or professional settings, more neutral terms like "be sanitized" or "be glossed over" may be more suitable.