Disrepute: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'disrepute' when referring to a situation or state where someone or something has lost the respect of others and is generally seen in a negative light, often over an extended period.

• The company fell into disrepute after the scandal.
• His actions brought his family name into disrepute.

Use 'disgrace' to describe a situation where someone has lost the respect of others due to a particular act or behavior. It often emphasizes the shame and loss of honor.

• He left the office in disgrace after the fraud was uncovered.
• Their behavior is a disgrace to the school.

Use 'dishonor' when focusing on the loss of honor or respect, particularly in situations involving betrayal or failure to meet expected standards. It often has a formal or serious tone.

• He felt he'd brought dishonor to his family by failing the exam.
• The soldier was discharged in dishonor for disobeying orders.

Use 'infamy' to describe a situation where someone or something is known for a very bad deed or evil act. It carries a stronger negative connotation and is often used in historical or dramatic contexts.

• The dictator lived on in infamy for his brutal regime.
• The attack was a day of infamy that would never be forgotten.

Used when someone or something has lost respect or a good reputation due to their actions or circumstances. It often describes a general state rather than an active action.

• The company's association with fraud brought it into disrepute.
• His criminal activities led to his family name falling into disrepute.

This is used when someone is actively damaging another person's or organization's reputation by making false statements. It often involves a legal connotation.

• The author was sued for trying to defame the politician.
• False accusations can severely defame an individual's character.

Used specifically for spoken false statements that harm someone's reputation. This is a type of defamation and can have legal consequences.

• He was accused of slander after spreading lies about his coworker.
• Slander can lead to serious legal troubles.

Often used in a more informal context to describe an effort to harm someone's reputation through false or misleading information. It can be spoken, written, or even through rumors.

• The gossip columns are always trying to smear celebrities.
• The political campaign turned dirty when candidates began to smear each other's records.