preserve reputation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preserve reputation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the importance of maintaining a positive image or standing in a particular context, such as personal, professional, or organizational settings. Example: "In the face of controversy, it is crucial to take steps to preserve reputation and rebuild trust with stakeholders."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

She wrote about people who would kill to preserve reputation and status, but who would never do it in a vulgar way.

The Guardian - Books

BLOOMBERG NEWS Deutsche Bank Strives to Preserve Reputation  |  The German lender turned down loans offered by the European Central Bank in December over concerns that taking the money could harm its reputation, the chief executive said, Bloomberg News reports.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In fact, the judgment actively invites concealment of the truth, so as to preserve reputations of all kinds, although, as with defamation law, the powerful stand to get the most out of it.

The Guardian - Opinion

In the health sector, informal payments and mechanisms to create and preserve reputations and support households facing major medical bills play a very important role.

BMC Public Health

In the book, she discusses some of the world's largest companies and their best practices for preserving reputation.

Forbes

Mrs. Boesky said she fought hard to preserve her reputation.

The New York Times

Critics will say they are acting to preserve their reputation.

The Guardian

If the Kabel Deutschland promises materialize, he should preserve that reputation.

The New York Times

Prosecutor Fred Wyshak said during the trial that Bulger was making the denial to preserve his reputation.

The Guardian

He also received no shortage of advice about exiting Bolton to preserve his reputation.

The Guardian - Sport

(The heirs of Gustave Moreau hid his photographs to preserve his reputation).

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing corporate actions, consider using "preserve reputation" to underscore the strategic importance of maintaining a positive public image, especially in times of crisis.

Common error

While "preserve reputation" is appropriate in formal and professional settings, avoid using it in casual conversation. Simpler phrases like "save face" or "keep a good image" may be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preserve reputation" primarily functions as a purpose connector, indicating the intention behind actions taken. Ludwig shows that the phrase is often used to describe efforts to maintain a positive image, particularly in professional or public contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "preserve reputation" is a grammatically correct and usable expression denoting actions taken to maintain a positive public image. While relatively rare, as confirmed by Ludwig, it's most commonly found in news, science and business contexts and carries a neutral to formal tone. When using this phrase, consider the context and audience to ensure it aligns with the overall tone of your writing. Remember Ludwig's suggestion about similar phrases for variety and tone, such as "maintain reputation" or "protect one's good name".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preserve one's standing

Very similar, focusing on maintaining position or status.

defend one's reputation

Highlights a focus on actively defending against threats.

protect one's good name

Emphasizes the defense of one's honor and integrity.

maintain respectability

Highlights the act of keeping a respectable public persona.

uphold one's credibility

Stresses the maintenance of trustworthiness and reliability.

maintain one's image

Focuses on the general act of keeping a certain image, broader than specifically preventing damage to it.

defend one's honor

Conveys a more aggressive stance in protecting one's reputation, suggesting a response to attacks or accusations.

safeguard one's standing

Highlights the act of securing one's position or status in a community or profession.

enhance one's image

Focuses on improving, rather than just maintaining, one's public perception.

protect one's face

An idiomatic expression signifying the avoidance of embarrassment or humiliation.

FAQs

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

You can use "preserve reputation" to describe actions taken to maintain a positive public image, such as "The company launched a PR campaign to "preserve reputation" after the scandal".

What are some alternatives to "preserve reputation"?

Some alternatives include "maintain reputation", "protect reputation", or "safeguard one's standing".

In what contexts is "preserve reputation" most appropriate?

"Preserve reputation" is suitable for formal contexts like business, legal discussions, and academic writing. In informal settings, consider using simpler alternatives.

What's the difference between "preserve reputation" and "enhance reputation"?

"Preserve reputation" implies maintaining an existing positive image, while "enhance reputation" suggests improving or building upon the current public perception.