mythical reputation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase “mythical reputation” is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to a reputation or status that may not be entirely true or based on real events, but rather is based on myths or legends. Example: The city of Atlantis is known for its mythical reputation as a lost city of great wealth and advanced technology.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

MISSOURI has an almost mythical reputation in American presidential politics.

The Economist

As such, Architeuthis (pronounced ark-uh-TOOTH-us) has something of a mythical reputation.

The New York Times - Science

Bannon had a mythical reputation inside the White House, but he routinely skipped important policy meetings, and his nationalist views were often absent from key White House proposals.

The Washington Post

Head coach Chip Kelly has developed an almost mythical reputation as one of the great offensive geniuses of the game, a reputation that was needed after trading Nick Foles for injury-prone former No 1 pick Sam Bradford.

Independent

The drugs of choice among most pediatricians, psychiatrists and others treating children with ADHD are stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin — which have earned an almost mythical reputation for their ability to help children do better in school, and which some teens and college students abuse to gain an edge in academics.

The Washington Post

Perhaps because sexy underwear has an almost mythical reputation.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

The original version, which took place in Bern, Switzerland, has a near-mythical reputation as a late-20th-century landmark.

The New York Times - Arts

And it would give blacks a leader whose near-mythical reputation had hoisted him above the rivalries and dogmas that afflict so many of his followers.

The Economist

They are well trained and well equipped, self-funded and self-organizing, and enjoy a near-mythical reputation among their countrymen, who, though often agnostic regarding the existence of elves and gnomes, are generally not inclined toward reverence or exaggeration.

The New Yorker

It's election time in Nepal, which means fire-bombed tourist buses, candidates being attacked and voters intimidated: the country's violent politics has never lived up to its mythical Shangri-la reputation.

Independent

As Verbal later explains, Söze has a near mythical and vengeful reputation, having killed his own family when they were held hostage by a Hungarian gang to show his resolve, and then killing off all but one of the gang members before disappearing underground, keeping his true identity secret by insulating himself from his agents that may not even know whom they are working for.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "mythical reputation", ensure that the context clearly indicates the reputation is based on exaggerated or idealized beliefs rather than concrete facts. For example, 'The athlete's "mythical reputation" grew as stories of his impossible feats spread.'

Common error

Avoid using "mythical reputation" to describe someone with genuine accomplishments. "Mythical" implies exaggeration or fabrication, so it's unsuitable for describing deserved recognition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mythical reputation" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, where 'mythical' modifies 'reputation'. It characterizes the reputation as being based on myths or legends, rather than factual evidence. As Ludwig AI indicates, this is grammatically correct and used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "mythical reputation" is a grammatically correct and relatively uncommon way to describe a reputation that is based more on myths, legends, or exaggerations than on reality. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is valid. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it conveys skepticism regarding the accuracy of the reputation. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly suggests an element of unreality or exaggeration. Consider alternatives like "legendary status" or "exaggerated fame" to fine-tune the intended meaning. Be careful not to use the term to describe a genuinely earned and accurate reputation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

legendary status

This alternative replaces 'reputation' with 'status' and 'mythical' with 'legendary', implying a high level of fame and admiration.

fabled renown

This alternative uses more literary terms, suggesting a reputation based on stories and tales.

exaggerated fame

This phrase directly implies that the fame is not entirely based on truth.

romanticized image

This suggests the reputation is idealized and perhaps unrealistic.

unrealistic perception

This alternative focuses on the distorted view rather than the reputation itself.

imaginary grandeur

This phrase implies that the greatness associated with the reputation is not real.

idolized persona

This suggests the reputation is based on excessive admiration and worship.

apocryphal character

This alternative uses a more formal term meaning of doubtful authenticity.

fabricated persona

This phrase suggests the reputation is intentionally created and not genuine.

invented legacy

This implies that the reputation is a constructed narrative rather than an organic development.

FAQs

What does "mythical reputation" mean?

The phrase "mythical reputation" describes a reputation that is based more on legend, exaggeration, or idealized perceptions than on reality. It suggests that the reputation may not be entirely true or accurate.

How can I use "mythical reputation" in a sentence?

You can use "mythical reputation" to describe someone or something whose reputation is based on exaggerated stories or legends. For example, 'The pirate Blackbeard had a "mythical reputation" for ruthlessness and daring'.

What are some alternatives to "mythical reputation"?

Some alternatives to "mythical reputation" include "legendary status", "fabled renown", or "exaggerated fame" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "mythical reputation" in a formal context?

While grammatically correct, "mythical reputation" might be more suited to informal or creative contexts. In formal settings, consider using more neutral terms like "exaggerated reputation" or "inflated image" if you need to convey the same meaning.