Word: aspersions (noun, plural)

Associations

"Aspersions" means negative or damaging remarks or criticisms about someone. When you "cast aspersions," you say things that harm someone's reputation or make others doubt them.

Examples:

• "He cast aspersions on her honesty." — He said things that made people question if she was honest.
• "Don't throw aspersions without proof." — Don’t criticize or accuse someone without evidence.
• "The politician faced aspersions from the media." — The media made negative comments about the politician.

Synonym: "accusations" or "insinuations."
Difference: "Aspersions" often suggest indirect or subtle criticism, not always direct accusations. It's more like hinting or implying something bad rather than openly stating it.

Substitution

You can replace "aspersions" with:

• "criticisms" (more general and can be positive or negative)
• "accusations" (stronger, direct claims of wrongdoing)
• "insinuations" (suggesting something bad without saying it clearly)

Changing the word changes how strong or direct the negative comment sounds.

Deconstruction

The word "aspersions" comes from Latin "aspersio," meaning "a sprinkling." Originally, it referred to sprinkling water (like in a religious ceremony). Over time, it changed meaning to "sprinkling" negative ideas or doubts about someone.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a time when someone cast aspersions on you or someone else? How did it feel?
• How is casting aspersions different from openly accusing someone?
• Why do you think people sometimes use aspersions instead of direct criticism?