make a bad impression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a bad impression" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing how someone's actions or behavior may negatively affect others' perceptions of them. Example: "Arriving late to the meeting can make a bad impression on your colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

You make a bad impression, says Shane Danielsen.

The Guardian - Film

The long lean body, draped in cashmere, doesn't make a bad impression, either.

The New Yorker

If you make a bad impression then word can spread, which could see the door of opportunity close.

The Guardian

Read literally, these words make a bad impression; the attitudes that got the guy in trouble when drunk are just as much in evidence when sober.

The New York Times

He wanted to say hi, he wrote, but was unshaven at the time and didn't want to make a bad impression.

The New York Times

Before celebrating a confirmation in Sicily last year, my aunt breathed a sigh of relief when she saw that her British niece was dressed appropriately enough so as not to make a bad impression in front of the extended family.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

"What makes a bad impression?

The New Yorker

"It makes a bad impression," repeated Roberto.

The New Yorker

The most dangerous thing about that first experience for me was that if I had made a bad impression with the client, you could almost never undo that.

The New York Times

The case turned on whether the woman, Demet Sabanci Cetindogan, had tried to sabotage the board interview - that is, deliberately made a bad impression so the board would turn down the deal.

The New York Times

Hall said he was especially worried because he missed a week and a half of the off-season program at the Jets complex, and he feared he was making a bad impression on the new regime.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to avoid a negative impact, focus on being punctual, well-prepared, and respectful in your interactions.

Common error

Don't obsess over every detail in an attempt to make a perfect impression. Authenticity and genuine engagement often outweigh meticulous planning, and overthinking can ironically lead to a forced, unnatural interaction that can "make a bad impression".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a bad impression" functions as a verb phrase. It describes the act of creating a negative perception or image in the minds of others. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

32%

Science & Research

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make a bad impression" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe actions or behaviors that lead to a negative perception. According to Ludwig AI, it's widely used across various contexts, from news and media to wikis and scientific research. To avoid making a negative impact, focus on being punctual, prepared, and respectful. While it's important to be mindful of the impression you give, remember that authenticity is key. Alternatives include "leave a negative impression" or "create a poor image". Remember that the specific context should guide your phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leave a negative impression

Focuses on the act of leaving an impression that is negative.

create a poor image

Highlights the creation of a negative image in someone's mind.

give a bad vibe

Emphasizes the negative feeling or atmosphere created.

project a negative image

Focuses on the projection of a negative image to others.

come across badly

Indicates that someone's behavior or actions are perceived negatively.

make an unfavorable impact

Highlights the negative impact or effect on someone or something.

be perceived negatively

Focuses on how someone is seen in a negative light.

present oneself poorly

Emphasizes the negative presentation of oneself.

damage one's reputation

Highlights the potential harm to one's reputation.

hurt one's credibility

Focuses on harming one's believability or trustworthiness.

FAQs

How can I use "make a bad impression" in a sentence?

You can use "make a bad impression" to describe actions that lead to others forming a negative opinion of someone. For instance, "Arriving late to the interview will likely "make a bad impression" on the hiring manager".

What are some alternatives to "make a bad impression"?

Alternatives include "leave a negative impression", "create a poor image", or "come across badly". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "make a bad impression" and "make a negative impact"?

"Make a bad impression" focuses on the immediate perception formed by others, while "make a negative impact" implies a more lasting or significant adverse effect.

Is it always possible to recover after you "make a bad impression"?

While it can be challenging, it's often possible to recover from a bad first impression. Showing sincerity, making amends for any mistakes, and consistently demonstrating positive qualities can help change perceptions over time.