smear

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "smear" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to a thin layer of a substance spread over a surface. For example: "He spread a smear of peanut butter on the toast."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And there we have it: the actions of a tiny group of individuals is used to smear the millions of people self-identifying as belonging to the left.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is yet one more smear and attack on the family.

The Guardian - Tech

Smear the cream filling generously on to the bottom halves of your hearts, and sandwich back together.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"This is a well-planned and calculated strategy by those that are trying to run away from the full force of the law to try and smear as many individuals as possible".

The Guardian

The Edinburgh Buffoon, Chris Brand, recently revived the ancient smear that this must be due to genes and is hence unalterable.

The Guardian

"This is a predictable smear that I anticipated before going public, as the US media has a kneejerk 'Red China!' reaction to anything involving Hong Kong or China, and is intended to distract from the issue of US government misconduct.

The Guardian

The letter to Mick Creedon, the chief constable who is leading Operation Herne, comes after Doreen Lawrence demanded a public inquiry into allegations that Metropolitan police officers attempted to smear her after her son's murder.

The Guardian

She implicitly threatened Zakani with legal action over his "smear" and accused him of being "disrespectful of the broader effort by the country's leadership to improve the situation at home for all Iranians".

The Guardian

But if the likes of Carswell try to smear the left as a whole – well, then we need to speak up.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Russian rock musician Andrey Makarevich was subjected to a smear campaign in Russian media after playing a concert in territory held by the Ukrainian government in east Ukraine.

The Guardian

It was the exact opposite, weaving puppets and games around set pieces – which included a rap about going for a smear test and a burlesque act where slogans about equal pay were all that was revealed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "smear" in the context of defamation, ensure you have a clear understanding of the nuances of libel and slander to avoid legal issues.

Common error

Avoid using "smear" in highly formal or academic writing where more precise and objective language is preferred. Opt for terms like "discredit", "defame", or "invalidate" for greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

The word "smear" functions as both a verb, indicating the action of spreading a substance or damaging someone's reputation, and a noun, referring to a mark or a defamatory attack. Examples in Ludwig showcase these dual roles, aligning with Ludwig AI's assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

13%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "smear" is a versatile term, functioning as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it describes the action of spreading a substance or damaging someone's reputation; as a noun, it denotes a mark or a defamatory attack. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability in written English. Its usage spans various contexts, notably in "News & Media", and "Formal & Business" writing, with a neutral to informal register. When writing, remember to consider the specific context to ensure clarity and avoid overuse in highly formal settings. When referring to defamation, understanding the legal nuances is important. Ludwig's examples show varied uses of "smear", reflecting its common presence in many contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

besmirch

Single word synonymous of "smear" to damage the reputation.

damage someone's reputation

Focuses on the act of harming one's public image, mirroring the defamation sense of "smear".

calumniate

Is a synonym of "smear" but referring to the meaning of damaging reputation.

tarnish someone's image

Implies a diminishment of one's good name, much like "smear" in its figurative sense.

apply a coat of

Focuses on the action of applying a layer, similar to spreading a substance.

sling mud at

Suggests a deliberate attempt to discredit someone with unpleasant accusations.

spread thinly

Highlights the act of distributing something lightly across a surface.

cast aspersions on

Involves making disparaging remarks about someone, similar to a "smear" campaign.

cover with a film of

Emphasizes the creation of a thin layer over something.

apply unevenly

Refers to the application of substance in an irregular way.

FAQs

How can I use "smear" in a sentence?

You can use "smear" as a verb, such as "The politician attempted to "smear" his opponent's reputation", or as a noun, like "There was a "smear" of paint on the wall".

What does it mean to "smear" someone's reputation?

To "smear" someone's reputation means to damage it by making false or damaging statements. It is similar to "defaming" or "slandering" someone.

What are some synonyms for "smear" when referring to spreading a substance?

When referring to spreading a substance, synonyms for "smear" include "spread", "coat", or "daub".

Is there a difference between a "smear" campaign and negative campaigning?

A "smear" campaign specifically aims to damage someone's reputation with false or misleading information, while negative campaigning may involve highlighting an opponent's weaknesses without necessarily resorting to falsehoods.