negative narrative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "negative narrative" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a story or account which has a generally negative outlook. For example, "This magazine article presents a very negative narrative about the current education system".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Often, this takes place against an unfairly negative narrative around the supposedly evil stepdad.

Independent

In spite of Nick Clegg's best efforts, Farage's negative narrative on immigration is reshaping the position of both Conservatives and Labour.

The Guardian - Opinion

THE CANDIDATES The best way to slow down a negative narrative — or enhance a helpful one — is to use the candidate quickly after a debate.

The New York Times

In a letter to the magazine, Mr. Corzine's children protested "the sweeping negative narrative the authors use to describe our family".

The New York Times

"This partial picture feeds the tabloid media's negative narrative on 'benefits scroungers', and these releases in turn have an impact on the public – and therefore employers' – perception of disability and disabled people.

The Guardian

"What we need is more engagement," says Masud. "Muslims have been reaching out for years, but in some areas more bridges need to be built to counter the powerful negative narrative Isis propagates".

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

But I think both candidates also reinforced negative narratives about themselves.

The Economist

[Emily Bell] A lobbying firm proposed that banks pay for "opposition research" to create "negative narratives" about Occupy Wall Street.

The New York Times

I was fed up of the gloomy, negative narratives that are so prevalent and I wanted to hear what other people think and feel.

The Guardian

In rapid-fire fashion, Mr. Obama's Chicago headquarters has been auditioning a series of negative narratives that might disqualify the Republican as a legitimate alternative to sit in the Oval Office: Mr. Romney as corporate raider at Bain Capital, Mr. Romney as enemy of women, Mr. Romney as friend of the birther movement.

The New York Times

He admits to having the company push negative narratives about competitors, but says Facebook did not ask or pay Definers to publish fake news.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to counteract a "negative narrative", focus on presenting factual, balanced perspectives, and highlighting positive aspects that may be overlooked. Use evidence-based arguments and diverse voices to challenge the prevailing viewpoint.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on emotional appeals when addressing a "negative narrative". While emotions can be powerful, ensure your counter-narrative is grounded in logic, data, and credible sources to maintain objectivity and build trust.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "negative narrative" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a story, account, or representation that is characterized by negativity. As Ludwig AI notes, it's a usable phrase for describing generally negative outlooks.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "negative narrative" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that describes a story or account characterized by a pessimistic or unfavorable outlook. As the Ludwig AI data indicates, it's most frequently encountered in news and media contexts, but also appears in scientific and formal business settings. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure your counter-narrative is grounded in logic, data, and credible sources to maintain objectivity and build trust.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pessimistic account

Focuses on the bleak or adverse aspects of a situation.

unfavorable portrayal

Emphasizes the negative way something is depicted or presented.

critical depiction

Highlights the fault-finding aspect of the narrative.

adverse storyline

Specifically refers to a negative plot or sequence of events.

damaging representation

Implies the narrative causes harm or has a detrimental effect.

detrimental account

Stresses the harmful consequences described in the narrative.

bleak depiction

Emphasizes the cheerless and discouraging nature of the portrayal.

downbeat narrative

Uses a more informal term to describe a pessimistic story.

unflattering narrative

Suggests the narrative presents something in an unattractive or undesirable light.

dark portrayal

Focuses on the sinister or ominous qualities of the representation.

FAQs

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

You can use "negative narrative" to describe a story or account with a pessimistic or unfavorable outlook. For example, "The article presented a /s/pessimistic+account about the company's future."

What are some alternatives to "negative narrative"?

Alternatives include /s/pessimistic+account, /s/unfavorable+portrayal, or /s/critical+depiction, depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct: "negative narrative" or "negative narration"?

"Negative narrative" is generally preferred when discussing a story or account with a pessimistic tone. "Negative narration" is less common but could refer to the act of narrating something in a negative way.

What is the impact of a "negative narrative" in media?

A "negative narrative" can influence public perception, shape opinions, and reinforce biases. It's important to critically evaluate these narratives and seek diverse perspectives to form a balanced understanding.