B2noun2K

Scandal

UK /["/ˈskændl/"]/US /["/ˈskændl/"]/

Definition

behaviour or an event that people think is morally or legally wrong and causes public feelings of shock or anger

In simple words: A situation that causes public shock or anger, often involving wrongdoing.

Examples

  • The politician resigned after the financial scandal was exposed.
  • Celebrities often get involved in scandals that attract media attention.
  • The company faced a scandal when it was revealed they polluted the river.
  • Many scandals have damaged the reputation of large corporations.
  • The scandal surrounding the athlete's doping caused outrage among fans.
  • His personal scandal made headlines for weeks.

Usage notes

Use 'scandal' in contexts related to controversies, especially in politics or celebrity news. It's appropriate for discussions about ethics or public perception. Avoid using it in light-hearted or casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'scan' for news on a 'scandal' — you scan headlines to see what's shocking.

Collocations

  • big
  • great
  • major
  • series
  • spate
  • wave
  • cause
  • create
  • avoid
  • be brewing
  • break
  • develop
  • sheet
  • in a/​the scandal
  • scandal over
  • the centre/​center of a scandal
  • a hint of scandal
  • a suggestion of scandal
  • big
  • great
  • major
  • series
  • spate
  • wave
  • cause
  • create
  • avoid
  • be brewing
  • break
  • develop
  • sheet
  • in a/​the scandal
  • scandal over
  • the centre/​center of a scandal
  • a hint of scandal
  • a suggestion of scandal

Synonyms

  • disgrace

Antonyms

  • honor
  • integrity
  • reputation

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'scandalous' when describing the action or behavior.
  • Using 'scandal' as a verb instead of a noun.
  • Overusing 'scandal' in non-controversial contexts.