Smear campaign Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A series of efforts to damage someone's reputation by spreading negative or false information about them, usually in public or in the media.
Usage & Nuances
Usually used in political, business, or celebrity contexts. Always negative; implies intentional and organized damage to reputation, not just casual gossip. Often appears as 'launch a smear campaign' or 'the victim of a smear campaign.'
Example Sentences
The politician was attacked with a smear campaign before the election.
basic
The company denied starting a smear campaign against its rival.
basic
He became the target of a smear campaign after his promotion.
basic
That article was just part of a bigger smear campaign to ruin his career.
natural
She’s tired of being caught up in a smear campaign every time she speaks out.
natural
It’s pretty clear they launched a smear campaign to distract from the real issues.
natural