Scandal Definition, Usage & Common Examples

Meaning 1：public disgrace (scandal)

scandal 🔊

/ˈskændl/

A big news story about someone doing something very wrong or immoral, which makes the public very angry or shocked.

Scandal definition illustrated by a person reacting to shocking news headlines on a smartphone and TV.

public disgrace 🔊

➕

/ˈpʌblɪk dɪsˈɡreɪs/

An action or event regarded as morally or legally wrong and causing general public outrage and damage to reputation.

📁 Category：Countries & Government 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Greek 'skandalon' meaning 'stumbling block, trap' via Latin and Old French.

💡 Mnemonic

SCAN a DAL: When you SCAN the news, a scandal often involves a person (like a doll/DAL) who did something wrong, causing public outrage.

📖 Example

The news report about the company polluting the river while claiming to be eco-friendly turned into a major scandal. 🔊 The news report about the company polluting the river while claiming to be eco-friendly turned into a major public disgrace.

🔗 Collocations

cause a scandal – To be the origin of a public outrage.

political scandal – A scandal involving politicians or government officials.

be at the centre of a scandal – To be the main person involved in a scandal.

🔄 Synonyms

disgrace (n.) – Loss of reputation or respect as the result of a dishonorable action.

controversy (n.) – Prolonged public disagreement or heated discussion.

outrage (n.) – An extremely strong reaction of anger, shock, or indignation.

🚫 Antonyms

integrity (n.) – The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.

honor (n.) – High respect; great esteem and public admiration.

good repute (n. phrase) – The state of being held in high esteem by the public.

🌱 Derivatives

scandalous (adj.) – Causing general public outrage by a perceived offense against morality or law.

scandalize (v.) – To shock or horrify someone by a real or imagined violation of morality or propriety.

scandal-monger (n.) – A person who spreads malicious gossip or rumors.

📖 Cultural Story

The word 'scandal' entered English from Old French 'scandale', tracing back to Latin 'scandalum' and Greek 'skandalon' (a trap or stumbling block). Historically, it often had strong religious connotations of causing moral offense or leading others into sin. In modern culture, it's a staple of journalism and politics, describing public controversies that damage reputations.