reputation
rep-yoo-TAY-shun
/ˌrɛpjuˈteɪʃən/
The beliefs or opinions that are generally held about someone or something.
Can be positive, negative, or mixed. It's about how others perceive you, which may or may not align with your true character.
The story behind the word. Our word 'reputation' comes from the Latin 'reputatio,' which meant 'consideration' or 'reflection.' This, in turn, derived from the verb 'reputare,' meaning 'to count over,' 'to think over,' or 'to reckon.' Essentially, it's about how others 'reckon' or 'think over' your qualities and actions, leading to a general opinion about you. It's the sum of all those considerations, forming your public image.
Word relationships
- standing: One's status or reputation, especially within a group or profession.
- fame: The state of being known or talked about by many people, especially on account of notable achievements.
- honor: High respect; great esteem.
- disrepute: The state of being held in low esteem by the public.
- anonymity: The state of being unknown to most people.
Commonly confused with
- character: 'Character' refers to one's inherent moral and ethical qualities; 'reputation' is how others perceive those qualities.
Word family
- repute (verb): To be generally considered or believed to be (something).
- reputable (adjective): Having a good reputation.
Collocations
- good reputation
- bad reputation
- tarnish a reputation
- maintain a reputation
- build a reputation
Idioms & expressions
- live up to one's reputation
Example sentences
- "His reputation as a diligent student was well-deserved, as he always submitted his assignments on time." Discussing public image.
- "A company's reputation for quality customer service is crucial for its long-term success." In a business context.
- "Slander and libel are legal terms for damaging someone's reputation through false statements." From a legal discussion.
Memory hook
Your 'reputation' is how people 're-think' and 're-port' about you. Re-think report
When not to use
Do not use 'reputation' to describe a personal feeling or self-perception; it's always about external perception.
Fun facts
- The phrase 'a man's reputation is his second life' highlights the enduring importance of how one is perceived.
Explore more words
credibility, renown, prestige, defamation, commendation, discredit
Also appears in
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