in a negative light

USAGE SUMMARY

"in a negative light" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is commonly used to refer to something that is being viewed or perceived in an unfavorable or undesirable way. For example: "The media often portrays politicians in a negative light, making it harder for them to effectively reach voters."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We're still seen in a negative light," she added.

The New York Times - Arts

"People will always put it in a negative light.

The Guardian - Sport

The bank said: G4S's well-documented Olympics contract issues have shown outsourcing in a negative light.

The Guardian - Business

I know the film intends to depict me and my work in a negative light.

The Guardian - Film

Eric regrets that his conduct portrayed him and his department in a negative light," said Bishkin.

The Guardian

People view wide-fit shoes in a negative light, they think they are frumpy and unattractive.

The Guardian

"We should not see aging and our increased longevity in a negative light," he said.

The New York Times

When the public broadcasters do mention the opposition, it is usually in a negative light.

The New York Times

Tudor propagandists in the 16th century portrayed him in a negative light.

The Guardian

Because it's not sensational, because it does not show S.U.V.'s in a negative light".

The New York Times

She rejected criticism that the film cast the female character in a negative light.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in a negative light", ensure the context clearly establishes what is causing the negative perception. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens your argument or observation.

Common error

Avoid phrasing sentences using "in a negative light" in a passive voice construction. Instead of saying "It is seen in a negative light", specify who or what is doing the viewing. For example: "Critics view the decision in a negative light."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a negative light" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed or how something is perceived. It indicates the manner in which something is viewed or presented, emphasizing an unfavorable or critical perspective. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is commonly used and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

13%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a negative light" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to describe something being viewed or portrayed unfavorably. Ludwig's analysis of numerous real-world examples indicates that it is frequently used in news and media, as well as scientific and wiki contexts. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, it is essential to ensure the context clearly establishes what is causing the negative perception. Alternatives such as "unfavorably" or "critically" may be used depending on the desired nuance. Remembering to avoid passive voice constructions will further enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with disapproval

Directly indicates a lack of approval or positive sentiment.

unfavorably

Highlights the lack of approval or positive regard in the assessment.

critically

Emphasizes the judgmental aspect of the perception.

in a bad way

Focuses on the unfavorable condition or state resulting from the perception.

in a poor manner

Stresses the substandard quality of the portrayal.

in a skewed perspective

Indicates a bias or distortion in the way something is seen.

in a demeaning way

Highlights that the action or portrayal belittles someone.

under a cloud

Suggests a state of suspicion or disrepute affecting the perception.

in disgrace

Highlights the loss of respect or approval.

disreputably

Focuses on the damaging impact to reputation.

FAQs

How can I use "in a negative light" in a sentence?

You can use "in a negative light" to describe how something is perceived unfavorably. For example, "The media often portrays the company "in a negative light" after the scandal".

What are some alternatives to "in a negative light"?

Alternatives include phrases like "unfavorably", "critically", or "in a bad way", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "portrayed negatively" or "in a negative light"?

Both are acceptable, but "in a negative light" often implies a broader context of perception, while "portrayed negatively" specifically refers to how something is depicted or presented.

What does it mean to see something "in a negative light"?

To see something "in a negative light" means to view it with disapproval, skepticism, or pessimism. It suggests a critical or unfavorable perspective.