disrepute - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
disrepute Word Meanings
- the state of being regarded with disfavor
- loss of reputation
- a bad or dishonorable reputation
disrepute Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
disrepute Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪs.rɪˈpjuːt/
US
/dɪs.rɪˈpjut/
disrepute Word Etymology
dis- = not + repute = reputation; Latin → Middle English: The term captures the essence of losing one's good name, akin to a once-respected figure now enveloped in shadows, with whispers of their scandal spreading.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Disrepute denotes the state of being regarded with disfavor or loss of reputation. It is more formal and often used in media contexts or legal writing than everyday talk about someone who is not trusted. You can say a person has fallen into disrepute after a scandal, or that a policy or institution has brought disrepute upon itself. The phrase can appear with prepositions like into disrepute or bring into disrepute. Learners sometimes confuse it with simply having a bad reputation or with repute, which is a neutral term for reputation. In careful writing, note that disrepute implies social judgment by others and a long enough period for trust to erode.
Usage Reminders
- Use formal registers; avoid everyday speech.
- Remember the two main collocations: into disrepute and bring into disrepute.
- Not the same as simply having a bad reputation; it signals a sustained loss of public trust.
- Can refer to people, organizations, or policies.
- Often found in journalism, law, or academic writing.
- Pair with verbs like fall into or be brought into to convey loss of trust.
Common Misconceptions
- It just means 'bad reputation' in everyday speech.
- It describes a temporary feeling, not a lasting state.
- Only people can be described as in disrepute.
- It's a casual, everyday term.
- You can use it for a minor incident without nuance.
Thinking Differences
Disrepute is a formal, somewhat old-fashioned word in English; learners often overgeneralize it as just 'bad reputation' and miss its nuance of a sustained, society-wide loss of trust and status. Pay attention to collocations with into/from and the suited contexts such as journalism or law.
Learning Tips
- Know it's formal; reserve for serious, not casual, discussion.
- Learn the key collocations: into disrepute, bring into disrepute, in disrepute.
- Differentiate from repute and reputation; nuance is trust erosion.
- Use in journalism, law, or history writing to sound precise.
- Practice with a short paragraph about a public figure.
- Listen for pronunciation: dis-REHP-tyoot.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'disrepute'?
A.Beautiful scenery
B.Famous celebrity
C.Funny joke
D.Negative reputation
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'disrepute' correctly?
A.His scandalous behavior led to his disrepute.
B.She is known for her honesty and integrity.
C.The company's actions brought them respect.
D.The children played happily in the park.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'disrepute'?
A.Reverence
B.Infamy
C.Fame
D.Praise
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite of 'disrepute'?
A.Integrity
B.Esteem
C.Honour
D.Prestige
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might you hear the word 'disrepute'?
A.Discussing a famous actor's career
B.Talking about a respected company's success
C.Complimenting a friend's fashion sense
D.Describing a scandal involving a politician
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