with negative connotations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "with negative connotations" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to refer to words, ideas, or symbols that suggest something unpleasant or bad. For example, the phrase "workaholic" could be considered to have negative connotations, implying that someone is too focused on their job and not taking enough time off.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

In Russia, the word "feminism" is often spoken with negative connotations these days.

The Guardian

The supporters tend to favor metaphors less freighted with negative connotations.

The New York Times

It has become a label tarnished with negative connotations and "labels, whatever they are, are not cool," she says.

The Guardian

For the first time in decades, Turkey will now be ruled by a koalisyon – a word with negative connotations for many Turks.

The Guardian - Opinion

Numbers with negative connotations -- 4 and 13 -- were avoided and top-floor apartments will begin with the number 18, considered lucky in many cultures.

The New York Times

Reviewers tend to describe my most exhilarating journeys as "adventures", though to me they are a form of escapism - a concept unfairly tainted with negative connotations.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

Travellers across the Karst described this unusual country and its natural phenomena, mostly with negative connotation and subsequently other limestone landscapes were compared to Karst.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

"The three provided recommendations do not reference any previous operation and cannot be linked to historical events with negative connotation for the Iraqi population".

Vice

But with the negative connotations ingrained, and with the aggressive marketing making most people see straight hair as the most beautiful, how could I return the world's eye to sexy waves, bouncy shapes, curvy styles, the visual interest of textured tresses?

Huffington Post

It is extremely challenging to get service members (and others) to get treatment for the symptoms of PTSD with the negative connotations people already heap atop mental illness, let alone with the insinuation that these people are somehow killers in waiting.

Huffington Post

Similar terminology — "frugal chic," "recession-proof dressing," going on a "spending fast" — with more negative connotations has not caught on among consumers or the fashion world.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for objectivity, be mindful of terms "with negative connotations". Opt for neutral alternatives to ensure impartiality.

Common error

Avoid consistently using words "with negative connotations" when describing opposing viewpoints. Strive for balanced language that promotes understanding rather than fueling division.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with negative connotations" functions as a prepositional modifier, typically describing a noun or noun phrase. As Ludwig AI notes, this phrase is used to indicate that a word, idea, or symbol carries an unpleasant or unfavorable association.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "with negative connotations" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional modifier used to indicate that a word, idea, or symbol carries unfavorable associations. As Ludwig AI states, its purpose is to qualify a term or concept, signaling negative feelings or judgments. Analysis reveals that its register is neutral, making it suitable for diverse contexts ranging from news and media to scientific writing. While the phrase itself is correct, it's important to be mindful of the impact of negatively charged language and to opt for neutrality when objectivity is the goal. Alternatives such as "with unfavorable implications" or "carrying a stigma" can offer nuanced ways to express similar concepts, depending on the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with unfavorable implications

Emphasizes the potential consequences or results are undesirable.

with pejorative undertones

Highlights the disparaging or belittling nature of the implied meaning.

with a bad rap

Suggests a reputation that is unfairly negative.

carrying a stigma

Focuses on the association with disgrace or disapproval.

tainted with negativity

Emphasizes the presence of something undesirable that diminishes the value of something else.

colored by prejudice

Suggests a bias influences understanding and creates negative associations.

bearing ill repute

Highlights the established negative opinion surrounding something.

viewed unfavorably

Indicates something is regarded with disapproval or dislike.

perceived negatively

Focuses on the way something is understood with a negative spin.

loaded with bias

Emphasizes the presence of a strong leaning in an unfair direction.

FAQs

How can I avoid using terms "with negative connotations"?

Consider your audience and the purpose of your communication. Use neutral language and provide context to avoid unintended offense. Seek out alternative phrasing that is more objective.

What's the difference between "negative implications" and "with negative connotations"?

"Negative implications" refers to the potential consequences or effects of something, while "with negative connotations" describes the underlying feeling or association evoked by a word or phrase. The first concerns outcomes, the second, the feeling associated with the language itself.

Is it always wrong to use words "with negative connotations"?

Not necessarily. Sometimes, it's appropriate to use terms "with negative connotations" to accurately convey a negative sentiment or to highlight a problem. However, be mindful of the potential impact and ensure that it aligns with your overall message.

What are some alternatives to "with negative connotations"?

Depending on the context, you might use phrases like "with unfavorable implications", "carrying a stigma", or "perceived negatively".