suffer the backlash

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "suffer the backlash" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the negative consequences or reactions that someone may face as a result of their actions or decisions. Example: "After implementing the controversial policy, the administration had to suffer the backlash from the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We suffer the loss of our children but we also suffer the backlash of the lies that they spread".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Of the people in there, 50% had no addiction issues – they just suffered the backlash of poor business behaviour.

The Guardian

Senator Kelly Ayotte, Republican of New Hampshire, also voted against the Manchin-Toomey measure, and she immediately suffered the backlash of angry voters in her state.

The New York Times

Lady Gaga may have suffered the backlash from disabled groups after performing in a wheelchair at a Sydney concert last week but Gaga isn't out of the doghouse just yet.

Huffington Post

Now that times have changed, and he has alienated his original backers with some very bad decisions, only to suffer the huge backlash, he hasn't been available for comment.

Huffington Post

"Companies such as Apple, for whom China is an important export market, may well suffer from the backlash," Ridsdale said.

Los Angeles Times

Additionally, knowing that they will not suffer from the backlash of their mistakes, employees will be more willing to take chances and less likely to do the bare minimum, just to safely slide by.

Huffington Post

Nor is it to ignore the predicament of many Iraqi women who have suffered the worst backlash against their rights since the Islamist authoritarian regime of Nouri al-Maliki took power, and, more recently, in Isis-controlled areas.

The Guardian

Generally, performers without firm ties to a specific niche suffered the strongest backlashes, notably Ms. Morissette and Hootie and the Blowfish.

The New York Times - Arts

One reason is that it backed the pornography law and has suffered in the backlash against it.Another, admits Zulkieflimansyah, a senior PKS parliamentarian, is that it has joined the (secular) coalition of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

The Economist

The Democrats might suffer voter backlash once the debate gets going and voters realize this is really driven by partisanship and their desire to control the Senate seat," he said, adding that the governor wouldn't hesitate to veto the legislation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "suffer the backlash", ensure that the context clearly indicates what action or decision led to the negative consequences. This provides clarity and strengthens your writing.

Common error

Avoid attributing the backlash to vague or undefined factors. Be specific about what triggered the negative reaction to maintain clarity and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "suffer the backlash" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun phrase. The verb "suffer" indicates experiencing something negative, and "the backlash" specifies the negative reaction or consequences being endured. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a valid and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0.5%

Less common in

Science

0.2%

Encyclopedias

0.1%

Reference

0.1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "suffer the backlash" is a commonly used phrase to describe the experience of negative consequences following a specific action or event. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is a grammatically correct and frequently employed expression, particularly in news and media contexts. While alternatives such as "face the consequences" or "endure the repercussions" exist, "suffer the backlash" specifically emphasizes the intensity and breadth of the negative reaction. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what triggered the backlash, and be mindful of the neutral register suitable for various communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Face the consequences

Focuses on the inevitable results of an action, whether positive or negative.

Bear the brunt

Emphasizes enduring the main force or impact of something negative.

Endure the repercussions

Highlights the long-term effects and implications of an action.

Receive the flak

Implies receiving criticism or negative feedback, often intensely.

Experience the fallout

Focuses on the aftereffects or negative consequences of an event.

Be subjected to criticism

Highlights that someone is the target of critical remarks or disapproval.

Face public disapproval

Specific to negative reactions from the general public.

Be on the receiving end

General expression meaning the recipient of something, usually unpleasant.

Get negative feedback

Refers to receiving unfavorable comments or evaluations.

Undergo scrutiny

Focuses on being closely and critically examined.

FAQs

How can I use "suffer the backlash" in a sentence?

You can use "suffer the backlash" to describe experiencing negative consequences after a particular action. For example, "The company will "suffer the backlash" after announcing the unpopular policy."

What is a synonym for "suffer the backlash"?

Alternatives include "face the consequences", "bear the brunt", or "endure the repercussions", each emphasizing a slightly different aspect of experiencing negative results.

Is it better to say "suffer a backlash" or "suffer the backlash"?

"Suffer the backlash" is more common and generally preferred when referring to a specific, known negative reaction. "Suffer a backlash" can be used when the backlash is less defined or anticipated.

What's the difference between "suffer the backlash" and "receive criticism"?

"Suffer the backlash" implies experiencing more than just criticism; it often includes a broader range of negative consequences. While "receive criticism" refers specifically to critical feedback, "suffer the backlash" can include boycotts, public outrage, or other significant repercussions.