rotten elements

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rotten elements" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe parts of a system, organization, or group that are corrupt, ineffective, or detrimental to the whole. Example: "The investigation revealed that there were several rotten elements within the organization that needed to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Some harboured secrets and knew about cover-ups of government revenge killings after the genocide.Mr Kagame's admirers say he is fighting for Rwanda's national interest; rotten elements in the army must be eradicated.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

When I left News International in December 2007, I believed that the rotten element at the News of the World had been eliminated; that important lessons had been learned; and that journalistic integrity was restored.

The New York Times

"When I left News International in December 2007, I believed that the rotten element at the News of the World had been eliminated; that important lessons had been learned; and that journalistic integrity was restored," he said.

The Guardian

The fighters flew in two elements (Rotten) of two aircraft each; two Rotten (four aircraft) made up a Schwarm (swarm).

Wikipedia

Those who found life preservers discovered to their horror that they were useless, rotten after 13 years of exposure to the elements.

The New York Times

During a return Manchester engagement, 20 July, the Pistols premiered a new song, "Anarchy in the U.K ., reflecting elements of the radical ideologies to which Rotten was being exposed.

Wikipedia

The Fifth Element holds a 71% approval rating at Rotten Tomatoes, based on 58 reviews.

Wikipedia

"Stay rotten".

The New York Times - Magazine

Rotten fruit.

The New York Times

"Rotten seeds.

The New York Times

Rotten movie!

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rotten elements", ensure that the context clearly establishes what is being referred to and why those elements are considered detrimental. This adds clarity and impact to your message.

Common error

Avoid using "rotten elements" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more neutral and precise terms like "corrupt components" or "ineffective aspects" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rotten elements" functions as a noun phrase, where "rotten" modifies "elements". Ludwig AI shows that it is used to describe undesirable parts of a system or organization.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rotten elements" is a phrase used to describe corrupt or undesirable components within a system or organization. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct and appears in news and media contexts, though it's not exceedingly common. When writing, it's important to consider the register and opt for more formal alternatives in academic or business settings. The phrase serves to identify problems and potentially advocate for change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

corrupt components

Focuses specifically on the corruption aspect of the elements.

toxic elements

Highlights the poisonous and dangerous quality of elements.

tainted aspects

Emphasizes the contamination or spoiling effect of the elements.

undesirable elements

Highlights the unwanted or unwelcome nature of the elements.

harmful components

Stresses the potential for damage or injury caused by the elements.

negative influences

Focuses on the impact and effect that elements have on a situation.

malignant aspects

Draws attention to the harmful and potentially dangerous qualities.

bad apples

An idiomatic expression referring to individuals who negatively affect a group.

defective components

Emphasizes the faulty and imperfect qualities of an element within an organization or system.

problematic aspects

Downplays severity compared to "rotten", simply indicating difficulties.

FAQs

What does "rotten elements" mean?

The phrase "rotten elements" refers to corrupt, undesirable, or harmful parts within a system, group, or organization. It suggests that these components are causing problems or damage.

How can I use "rotten elements" in a sentence?

You can use "rotten elements" to describe parts of something that are corrupt or causing problems. For example: "The investigation revealed that there were several "rotten elements" within the organization that needed to be addressed."

What are some alternatives to "rotten elements"?

You can use alternatives like "corrupt components", "tainted aspects", or "undesirable elements" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "rotten elements" a formal or informal phrase?

"Rotten elements" is generally considered a neutral phrase, suitable for news media and general writing. However, in highly formal or academic contexts, it may be better to use a more neutral or precise term.