Give a dog a bad name

usgb
phrase

To damage someone's reputation through false accusations or slander.

John started spreading rumors about Steve at school, really trying to give a dog a bad name.
Visual representation of "give a dog a bad name" - To damage someone's reputation through false accusations or slander

Often appears as...

  • to unfairly give a dog a bad name
  • to falsely give a dog a bad name

Usage tips

Disapproving

idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "give a dog a bad name"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

The phrase is often used metaphorically to discuss reputation, not actual dogs.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
Once you give a dog a bad name, it's hard to clear it.
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Negative Emotion

Using this phrase implies a strong negative emotion towards the action of harming reputation.

Illustration for Negative Emotion
He didn't just criticize her; he gave the poor girl a dog's bad name.
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Social Consequences

The phrase emphasizes the long-term social damage of rumors or slander.

Illustration for Social Consequences
In our small community, to give a dog a bad name is to ruin someone's social standing.
Visual representation of the word "Give a dog a bad name"

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