under a cloud

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العربية الفصحى
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हिन्दी
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/ˈʌn.dər ə klaʊd/
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Regarded with suspicion or disapproval after possible wrongdoing.
Practice using under a cloud in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • The director left under a cloud.
  • She retired under a cloud of suspicion.
  • The official has been under a cloud since the leak.
  • After the inquiry, he remained under a cloud.
  • He hoped to clear his name after years under a cloud.

Similar words

in disrepute
under suspicion
in disgrace

Meanings

Under suspicion

reputation
neutral
Describes a person whose reputation has been damaged by an allegation or scandal.

Examples

  • The director left under a cloud.
  • After the inquiry, he remained under a cloud.
  • She retired under a cloud of suspicion.
  • The official has been under a cloud since the leak.
  • He hoped to clear his name after years under a cloud.

Similar words

under suspicion
in disgrace
in disrepute

Etymology

A cloud suggests a dark shadow hanging over someone’s reputation.

FAQ

What does under a cloud mean?

Under a cloud means viewed with suspicion or disapproval.

When is under a cloud used?

It often describes someone leaving a job after a scandal.

How does under a cloud differ from under suspicion?

Under suspicion is literal; under a cloud also conveys a damaged reputation.

How is under a cloud used in a sentence?

The director left under a cloud.

Is under a cloud formal?

No, it is a common idiom.

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