reflect badly on

USAGE SUMMARY

"reflect badly on" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something makes someone or something appear in a negative light. For example: Her decision to drop out of school reflected badly on her family.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If you are even one beat behind, it will reflect badly on the entire group.

WikiHow

Are you worried her grooming will reflect badly on her?

The New York Times

I don't want anything to reflect badly on my wife".

The New York Times

This summer's transfer activities also reflect badly on Moyes.

The Guardian - Sport

"They reflect badly on the firm and on myself," he said.

Independent

But BP's woes may also reflect badly on other British firms doing business in America.

The Economist

"When I was just a researcher, a setback would only reflect badly on myself.

The New York Times

Mr. Mehta said the cancellation did not reflect badly on the orchestra.

The New York Times - Arts

If the source is discovered, it might reflect badly on whoever blew this particular whistle.

The New York Times

Not to do so would be complacent and lazy and reflect badly on your group".

The New Yorker

Dreadful enough in itself, it may also reflect badly on Kipps's motives.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reflect badly on", ensure the subject clearly indicates what is causing the negative reflection, and the object is who or what is being negatively affected. This will improve clarity and prevent misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "reflect badly on" when the cause of the negative impact is ambiguous or unclear. Clearly state what is causing the negative reflection to maintain clarity and avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reflect badly on" functions as a phrasal verb indicating that something causes a negative impression or consequence for someone or something else. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, illustrating how actions or situations can impact reputations or perceptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

13%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reflect badly on" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe situations where something negatively impacts someone or something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness. It is most frequently found in news and media, but its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in identifying the cause of the negative reflection. Alternatives like "bring discredit to" or "tarnish the image of" can be used for variety, while maintaining the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reflect poorly on

A direct synonym, using 'poorly' instead of 'badly'.

bring discredit to

Highlights the damage to someone's reputation or honor.

damage the reputation of

Specifically refers to harming someone's public image.

tarnish the image of

Highlights the damaging of a previously positive image.

cast a shadow on

Emphasizes the negative impact as a darkening or tainting effect.

put in a bad light

Focuses on presenting someone or something negatively.

detract from

Focuses on the reduction of value or positive qualities.

show someone in a negative light

Focuses on revealing the negative aspects of someone or something.

give a bad impression of

Emphasizes the creation of a negative image.

compromise

Highlights the act of making something vulnerable or damaged.

FAQs

How can I use "reflect badly on" in a sentence?

Use "reflect badly on" to indicate that an action, event, or characteristic has a negative impact on someone or something. For example, "His poor performance will "reflect badly on" the entire team".

What's a synonym for "reflect badly on"?

Alternatives to "reflect badly on" include "bring discredit to", "reflect poorly on", or "tarnish the image of", all of which suggest a negative impact on someone's reputation or image.

Is it better to say "reflect badly on" or "reflect poorly on"?

"Reflect badly on" and ""reflect poorly on"" are largely interchangeable. The choice depends on personal preference, although "reflect badly on" might be slightly more common.

Can "reflect badly on" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "reflect badly on" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. It is a common and well-understood phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, appropriate for various contexts.