Synonyms of scandal

scandal

noun

ˈskan-dᵊl 

as in disgrace

a cause of shame

a scandal that for many years haunted the family of the banker convicted of embezzlement

Synonyms & Similar Words

• disgrace
• reflection
• stain
• dishonor
• opprobrium
• reproach
• stigma
• taint
• blot
• slur
• brand
• smirch
• spot

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• credit
• honor
• glory
• pride
• treasure
• jewel
• boast

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun scandal contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of scandal are crime, offense, sin, and vice. While all these words mean "a transgression of law," scandal applies to an offense that outrages the public conscience.

a career ruined by a sex scandal

When is crime a more appropriate choice than scandal?

The words crime and scandal can be used in similar contexts, but crime implies a serious offense punishable by the law of the state.

the crime of murder

When might offense be a better fit than scandal?

While in some cases nearly identical to scandal, offense applies to the infraction of any law, rule, or code.

at that school no offense went unpunished

In what contexts can sin take the place of scandal?

Although the words sin and scandal have much in common, sin implies an offense against moral or religious law.

the sin of blasphemy

When would vice be a good substitute for scandal?

The synonyms vice and scandal are sometimes interchangeable, but vice applies to a habit or practice that degrades or corrupts.

regarded gambling as a vice

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of scandal

Skipping over the scandal following Arthur’s election seems like an odd choice, albeit one that ultimately makes sense within the context of the series. —Keith Phipps, Vulture, 25 Sep. 2025

His administration is also engulfed in corruption scandals. —Allison Morrow, CNN Money, 25 Sep. 2025

Since taking office in 2023, Walters presided over a steady stream of scandals and controversies as the head of Oklahoma’s public education system, many due to his far-right political views. —Samantha Riedel, Them., 25 Sep. 2025

Viewers can also expect health emergencies, explosive confrontations and the fallout from a public scandal that threatens to divide the family even further. —Shelby Stewart, Essence, 24 Sep. 2025