tarnished

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "tarnished" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that has lost its luster or shine due to age, wear, or neglect. For example, "The silverware had become tarnished with age."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In backing Libya, that reputation stands to be badly tarnished.

The Guardian

"The reputation of the Guardian has been tarnished by your willingness to accept his article.

The Guardian - Opinion

It remains unclear whether Juncker will emerge unscathed – he admits his reputation has been tarnished – but top people in Brussels believe that the Luxembourger is safe.

The Guardian

That would prolong a divisive fight in the so-called "culture wars" that moderate Republicans fear have tarnished the party's reputation in recent years.

The Guardian

"Some people say I am too direct and too blunt; I think we can use a little bit of that in Washington DC," said Christie, who has been tarnished by allegations of political bullying during his time as governor of New Jersey.

The Guardian

But if Osborne rejects this course, the first two years of this parliament are going to be tough and all the talk of a one-nation government might look very tarnished by the end of 2017.

The Guardian

Standing against David had bigger ramifications for my family, and my relationship with him, than I anticipated Others think David Miliband would have proved electoral poison, tarnished by his stint as foreign secretary.

The Guardian

Murdoch later revealed that her one regret about the speech was not being more positive about her brother James, who had run News International but was tarnished by the hacking affair and retreated to a New York-based role.

The Guardian

Rouhani's administration has tried to revamp Iran's image, especially concerning the official attitude towards the country's Jewish community, after it was badly tarnished under his predecessor, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who was notorious for his Holocaust denials and antisemitic tirades.

The Guardian

Now one of the most high-profile success stories in the post-apartheid era is at risk of being tarnished.

The Guardian - Sport

The move, condemned by environmental groups who have warned of the likelihood of a catastrophic oil spill, has tarnished an environmental legacy that Obama is trying to build in his final year and a half as president.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the word "tarnished", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. It often implies a loss of luster or reputation due to a specific event or series of events, so ensure the context supports this implication.

Common error

Avoid using "tarnished" to describe something that was inherently flawed from the beginning. "Tarnished" suggests a decline from a previous state of shine or respect, not an inherent defect.

Linguistic Context

The word "tarnished" primarily functions as an adjective describing a noun. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates that something has lost its original luster, purity, or reputation. Examples from Ludwig show its use in describing reputations, legacies, and even abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tarnished" functions primarily as an adjective, indicating a loss of luster, reputation, or quality. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in describing a decline from a previous, better state. This word is frequently found in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. Be mindful that "tarnished" should be used to describe something that once had a higher value or shine, not something inherently flawed. Related alternatives include "blemished", "sullied", and "discredited", each carrying slightly different nuances. When writing, consider the context and the specific impact you want to convey when using the word "tarnished".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

blemished

Refers to something with a mark or flaw that detracts from its appearance.

sullied

Implies that something has been stained or disgraced, often referring to reputation or purity.

discredited

Indicates a loss of credibility or reputation, often due to evidence or events.

tainted

Suggests that something has been contaminated or corrupted, often morally or ethically.

dishonored

Implies a loss of honor or respect, often due to a violation of principles or standards.

damaged

Indicates that something has been harmed or impaired, either physically or metaphorically.

marred

Refers to something whose perfection or integrity has been spoiled.

stained

Suggests that something has been marked or discolored, often figuratively.

corrupted

Implies a state of decay or degradation, especially morally.

debased

Suggests a lowering in status, quality, or character.

FAQs

How can I use "tarnished" in a sentence?

You can use "tarnished" to describe something that has lost its luster, shine, or good reputation. For example, "The scandal tarnished his reputation" or "The silver was tarnished with age".

What are some synonyms for "tarnished"?

Synonyms for "tarnished" include "blemished", "sullied", "discredited", and "tainted". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say something is "slightly tarnished"?

Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to say something is "slightly tarnished". This indicates a minor degree of damage or loss of luster. The word "slightly" helps to qualify the extent of the effect.

What's the difference between "tarnished" and "ruined"?

"Tarnished" implies a loss of shine or reputation, but not necessarily complete destruction. "Ruined", on the other hand, suggests a complete loss of value or functionality. A reputation can be "tarnished", while a building might be "ruined".