Words / C2

uh-SPURSHUN/əˈspɜːʃn/

An aspersion is a damaging remark, almost always in cast aspersions on: cast aspersions on her honesty. Slander and smear are everyday cousins; asperity (already in the dictionary) is harshness of tone — a lookalike. Do not cast aspersions in a public minute without evidence.

Meaning

A critical or damaging remark (usually cast aspersions on).

Examples

• “Do not cast aspersions on a junior’s first draft in a public minute.”
• “The set phrase is cast aspersions (usually plural). Smear is everyday. Asperity is sharpness of manner. Dispersion is scatter. If you have evidence, name the fact; if you do not, do not cast.”

Good to know

A smear; usually cast aspersions on. Everyday: smear. Mix-up: asperity (harsh tone). Evidence or silence — not a public hint.

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