set a bad image

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set a bad image" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing how someone's actions or behavior negatively affect their reputation or the perception of a group or organization. Example: "His reckless behavior at the event set a bad image for the entire team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Do I think parents who drive luxury cars set a bad image for kids?" he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Hitler set a bad example.

Independent

"It set a bad precedent".

The New York Times

"This would set a bad precedent," he said.

The New York Times

It would set a bad precedent, they argued.

The New York Times

One environmentalist group said the vote set a bad precedent.

The New York Times

He set a bad example for boxing and all fighters.

BBC

48 would set a bad precedent.

Los Angeles Times

It can set a bad precedent (Silly, nonsense...)...

WikiHow

He added: "If they publicly signalled that the trade is unacceptable and gives Vietnam a bad image, that would set a whole direction of the country and lead to better law enforcement.

The Guardian

The President has a bad image.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set a bad image", consider the specific context and audience. Ensure the language is appropriate and avoid overly judgmental terms to maintain credibility.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact of the negative image. Provide concrete examples or evidence to support your claim, rather than relying on emotional language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set a bad image" functions as a verb phrase that describes the act of creating or establishing a negative perception. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, indicating that it's a way to express how actions or behaviors can negatively impact someone's reputation or the perception of a group or organization.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "set a bad image" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe the act of creating a negative perception or damaging a reputation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is most common in news and media contexts. While alternatives like "create a negative impression" or "project a poor image" exist, "set a bad image" specifically emphasizes the establishment of a negative view. When employing this phrase, be mindful of the context, avoid hyperbole, and ensure your claims are supported by evidence to maintain clarity and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create a negative impression

Focuses on the creation of a negative perception rather than the setting of an image.

project a poor image

Emphasizes the outward display of a negative image.

give a bad impression

Highlights the act of providing a negative perception.

present a negative image

Focuses on the presentation of a negative visual or conceptual representation.

foster a negative perception

Emphasizes the development of a negative viewpoint.

establish a poor reputation

Shifts the focus to the long-term establishment of a negative reputation.

create a damaging perception

Highlights the harmful effect of the created perception.

give a negative portrayal

Focuses on the act of depicting something in a negative light.

cultivate a negative image

Implies a deliberate effort in creating a negative image.

promote a poor public image

Highlights the promotion of a negative image to the public.

FAQs

How can I use "set a bad image" in a sentence?

You can use "set a bad image" to describe actions or situations that negatively affect someone's reputation. For instance, "The company's handling of the crisis "set a bad image" for its stakeholders".

What are some alternatives to "set a bad image"?

Alternatives include "create a negative impression", "project a poor image", or "give a bad impression". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey. You could also use "damage reputation" or "taint image".

Is it better to say "set a bad image" or "create a bad image"?

Both "set a bad image" and "create a bad image" are grammatically correct and understandable. The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. "Set a bad image" implies establishing or solidifying a negative perception, while "create a bad image" implies bringing a negative perception into existence.

What's the difference between "set a bad image" and "set a bad example"?

"Set a bad image" refers to negatively impacting a reputation or perception. "Set a bad example" refers to demonstrating undesirable behavior that others might imitate. For instance, "His dishonesty "set a bad example" for his children", while "The scandal "set a bad image" for the company".