infamous phrase

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "infamous phrase" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a phrase that is well-known for negative reasons or has a bad reputation. Example: "The infamous phrase 'Let them eat cake' is often attributed to Marie Antoinette, symbolizing her disconnection from the struggles of the common people."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

It begins with that infamous phrase, "Fancy a drink?".

Independent

The already infamous phrase occurred about 150 words in.

The New York Times

We were, to borrow an infamous phrase from across the Irish Sea, all in it together.

The Guardian

One was electricity "too cheap to meter," in the now infamous phrase.

The New York Times - Books

David Frum coined George W. Bush's infamous phrase "axis of evil," in the speech that laid a predicate for war.

The New Yorker

In Germany there is an annual vote for the Unwort des Jahres ("most infamous phrase of the year").

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

First he took his red pencil to the text, removing infamous phrases such as "baked in that pie".

The Guardian

Another anchor off-camera chimed in on the exchange: "Put your stories together and you'll have something going on!" No stranger to off-the-wall moments that range from reporting on a fake plane crash to coining infamous phrases like "sweater stretchers" and "caboose pistol," WGN Morning News has pretty much cornered the market on hilariously awkward newscasts by now.

Huffington Post

Less than two minutes after Romney uttered the now-infamous phrase Tuesday evening, the domain name became the digital property of American Bridge 21st Century, a Democratic Super PAC which counts as its largest donor left-wing hedge fund billionaire George Soros.

Huffington Post

I would be "dead rich", to adapt an infamous Clinton phrase, if I could bill for all the hours I've spent covering just about every "scandal" that has enveloped the Clintons.

The Guardian - Opinion

At his election launch a few weeks later, Howard dropped his most infamous catch-phrase: "We will decide who comes to this country and the circumstances in which they come"—which, to be honest, should probably just be our national anthem.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "infamous phrase", ensure that the reason for its infamy is clear to the reader, either through context or direct explanation. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "infamous phrase" without providing sufficient context or explanation for why the phrase is considered infamous. Readers unfamiliar with the specific phrase may not understand the intended meaning or significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "infamous phrase" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "infamous" modifies the noun "phrase". It serves to describe a particular group of words as having a negative reputation. Ludwig AI examples showcase its use in identifying and labeling well-known but negatively perceived sayings.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

5%

Huffington Post

3%

Less common in

The Guardian

2%

Vice

1%

The New Yorker

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "infamous phrase" is used to describe a saying widely known for its negative connotations. While grammatically correct and common, ensuring contextual clarity is vital when employing this term, as it relies on shared knowledge of the phrase's disrepute. Ludwig AI identifies its usage predominantly in news and media sources. Alternatives such as "notorious expression" or "ill-famed saying" can provide variety, but the core meaning remains consistent. As Ludwig's examples show, it serves to categorize and highlight the negative reputation of the specific expression being referenced.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

notorious expression

Replaces "phrase" with a synonym, while "notorious" maintains a similar negative connotation.

ill-famed saying

"Ill-famed" substitutes "infamous", conveying a similar sense of negative reputation, and "saying" replaces "phrase".

discredited term

Changes both the adjective and noun while retaining a negative connotation related to reputation.

scandalous remark

Implies the phrase is shocking and unacceptable.

shameful statement

Emphasizes the disgrace associated with the phrase.

offensive line

Focuses on the hurtful or unpleasant nature of the phrase.

controversial wording

Highlights the divisive or contentious nature of the phrase.

widely condemned expression

Indicates broad disapproval and criticism of the phrase.

questionable utterance

Suggests the phrase is dubious or doubtful in nature.

unpopular slogan

Frames it as something disliked by many people.

FAQs

How can I use "infamous phrase" in a sentence?

You can use "infamous phrase" to refer to a saying that is known for its negative connotations or historical significance, such as, "The "infamous phrase" 'Let them eat cake' is often used to illustrate Marie Antoinette's detachment from the suffering of the poor".

What are some alternatives to "infamous phrase"?

Alternatives include "notorious expression", "ill-famed saying", or "discredited term", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it redundant to say "infamous phrase"?

While "infamous" implies a certain level of recognition, using "phrase" clarifies that you are referring to a specific group of words rather than a general concept or idea. It is not necessarily redundant but provides added precision.

What makes a phrase truly "infamous"?

A phrase becomes "infamous" when it is widely known and associated with negative events, scandals, or controversies, often used to encapsulate a particular moment or idea in a disapproving way.