in the wrong circles

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the wrong circles" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe being in a group or social setting that is not appropriate or suitable for a particular person or situation. Example: "He often finds himself in the wrong circles, surrounded by people who do not share his values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

I'm in the wrong circles.

The Guardian

Perhaps I move in the wrong circles.

The Guardian - Books

He was hunting acceptance in the wrong circles.

The New York Times - Sports

But perhaps the scolds were just hanging out in the wrong circles.

The New York Times

Tempers frayed very rarely, if at all; maybe I was moving in the wrong circles.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Maybe I hang out in the wrong circles, but I have never heard a guy ask, Whom would you pick -- Carrie, Samantha, Miranda or Charlotte?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

He might fill in the wrong circle or confuse the numbers.

The New York Times

If there's any chance you missed a question, misinterpreted a question, or just filled in the wrong circle, you'll know you've caught it if you check and double-check your answers (provided you have the time, of course).

WikiHow

He fell in with the wrong circle of friends, had run-ins with the police and straddled the line of failing classes.

The New York Times

"maybe i just entered the wrong circle.

Vice

So artificial light sends them in the wrong direction, or in circles, until they die.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "in the wrong circles" to suggest that someone is associating with people who have a negative influence or who are not a good fit for their values or goals.

Common error

Avoid assuming that someone "in the wrong circles" is inherently bad; the phrase primarily indicates an incompatibility or negative influence from external sources, not necessarily an internal flaw.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the wrong circles" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, often describing where someone is socially situated. It indicates that a person is associating with a group of people who are considered inappropriate, unsuitable, or detrimental.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the wrong circles" is a prepositional phrase used to describe someone associating with unsuitable or negative influences. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Usage is most common in news and media, signaling a neutral register. When using this phrase, consider that it primarily highlights external influences rather than inherent flaws within the individual. Alternatives include "in unsuitable company" or "associating with the wrong people". It's a powerful phrase for describing social dynamics and potential negative impacts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in unsuitable company

Focuses on the type of people rather than the broader social environment.

with the wrong crowd

Emphasizes the group of people one is associating with, implying a negative influence.

associating with the wrong people

Focuses on the action of associating and the negative qualities of the people involved.

among bad influences

Highlights the negative impact of the people around someone.

mixed up with the wrong crowd

Stresses the unintended or accidental nature of associating with negative influences.

in a detrimental environment

Shifts the focus to the harmful surroundings rather than just the people.

in the midst of undesirable elements

Uses more formal language to describe negative or problematic individuals.

in compromising situations

Highlights the awkwardness and danger of a social environment

surrounded by negativity

Emphasizes the pessimistic or harmful atmosphere created by the people involved.

involved in dubious associations

Highlights the uncertainty and potential risk linked to certain relationships.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "in the wrong circles" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "in unsuitable company" or "associating with undesirable elements". These alternatives avoid colloquialisms and maintain a professional tone.

What does it mean to say someone is "in the wrong circles"?

It means they are associating with people who may have a negative influence, different values, or may lead them down a path that is not beneficial. It implies a mismatch between the individual and their social environment.

Is it always negative to be "in the wrong circles"?

While generally negative, it depends on the context. It often suggests that the person is influenced by negative external factors. However, it might also reflect a clash of values or incompatibility rather than inherently malicious intent from either side.

What are some less common alternatives to "in the wrong circles"?

Consider alternatives like "in a detrimental environment", "in compromising situations", or "surrounded by negativity" to add nuance to your expression. These alternatives emphasize the broader context rather than solely the people involved.