tainted reputation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tainted reputation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a reputation that has been damaged or harmed, often due to negative actions or associations. Example: "After the scandal, the politician was left with a tainted reputation that made it difficult for him to regain public trust."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

However Russia's tough treatment of its eastern neighbours such as Belarus and Ukraine, who it threatened to cut off or reduce natural gas supplies to if payments were not made, has not helped its already tainted reputation.

Forbes

Compounding their reluctance to sell online is the Web's tainted reputation as a breeding ground for counterfeits.

The New York Times

Moreover, the Palmeiras manager has a tainted reputation due to allegations of dodgy deals with players and agents.

The Guardian - Sport

Peckinpah's formal mastery and willingness to probe the dark side of human psychology are applauded by some, but Straw Dogs has never escaped its tainted reputation.

Independent

"Students do not often realistically research their career prospects," he says, and frets that some could be put off by the nuclear industry's tainted reputation.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Judy Smith doesn't just polish tainted reputations; she sells narratives of redemption.

The New York Times

Indeed, some energy companies and banks say they are recruiting many students despite their industries' tainted reputations.

BBC

And the results can be catastrophic — from damaged brands and competitive positions to CEO and senior management dismissals, tainted reputations, lawsuits and even jail.

TechCrunch

While a contempt citation has symbolic value and can taint reputations, it is not clear how much practical effect it would have.

The New York Times

Traces of Marie Antoinette and the gossip that tainted her reputation remain scattered throughout the chateau.

Princeton University

They have tainted the reputation of Icap and the financial markets as a whole.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation where trust has been broken, use "tainted reputation" to highlight the lasting negative impact on someone's public image.

Common error

Avoid using "tainted reputation" in highly formal or academic writing where a more neutral term like "questionable reputation" or "compromised standing" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tainted reputation" functions as a noun phrase, where "tainted" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "reputation". It describes a state of being damaged or negatively affected. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tainted reputation" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable expression used to describe a reputation that has suffered damage, often due to negative actions or associations. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage. While not exceedingly common, it appears primarily in news and media contexts, signifying a neutral register. Alternatives like ""damaged reputation"" or "blemished reputation" offer similar meanings but may carry slightly different connotations. When using this phrase, consider the level of formality required and whether a more neutral term might be more appropriate. The most authoritative sources for its usage are The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Damaged reputation

Focuses on the damage inflicted upon the reputation.

Blemished reputation

Emphasizes a flaw or imperfection that mars the reputation.

Compromised reputation

Highlights the loss of integrity or trustworthiness.

Sullied reputation

Suggests a stain or defilement of the reputation.

Disgraced reputation

Emphasizes the shame and dishonor associated with the reputation.

Tarnished image

Focuses on the negative impact on the external perception.

Stained character

Shifts the focus to the person's moral standing.

Ruined credibility

Highlights the destruction of believability.

Questionable integrity

Focuses on doubts surrounding honesty and moral principles.

Discredited name

Emphasizes the loss of honor and respect associated with the name.

FAQs

How can I use "tainted reputation" in a sentence?

You can use "tainted reputation" to describe someone or something whose good name has been damaged, for example, "The scandal left the company with a "tainted reputation"."

What's the difference between "tainted reputation" and "damaged reputation"?

"Tainted reputation" often suggests a moral or ethical failing that has caused the damage, while "damaged reputation" is a more general term indicating harm to one's standing, regardless of the cause.

What can I say instead of "tainted reputation"?

You can use alternatives like "blemished reputation", "compromised reputation", or "sullied reputation" depending on the context.

Is "tainted reputation" a formal or informal expression?

"Tainted reputation" is suitable for neutral to semi-formal contexts. In highly formal or academic settings, consider using more neutral terms like "compromised standing" or "questionable repute".