disrepute

Frequently Asked Questions About disrepute

How does the noun disrepute differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of disrepute are disgrace, dishonor, ignominy, and infamy. While all these words mean "the state or condition of suffering loss of esteem and of enduring reproach," disrepute stresses loss of one's good name or the acquiring of a bad reputation.

a once proud name fallen into disrepute

When would disgrace be a good substitute for disrepute?

The synonyms disgrace and disrepute are sometimes interchangeable, but disgrace often implies humiliation and sometimes ostracism.

sent home in disgrace

When could dishonor be used to replace disrepute?

The words dishonor and disrepute are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, dishonor emphasizes the loss of honor that one has enjoyed or the loss of self-esteem.

preferred death to life with dishonor

Where would ignominy be a reasonable alternative to disrepute?

In some situations, the words ignominy and disrepute are roughly equivalent. However, ignominy stresses humiliation.

the ignominy of being arrested

When is it sensible to use infamy instead of disrepute?

Although the words infamy and disrepute have much in common, infamy usually implies notoriety as well as exceeding shame.

a day that lives in infamy