cast aspersions

/kæst əˈspɜːrʒənz/
phrasal verb★Intermediate💡 slander or criticize unfairly◆idiom
◆ What It Really Means
To make unfair or false statements that harm someone's reputation or credibility.
Literal Meaning
To throw or direct damaging remarks toward someone.
Literal Breakdown
castto throw or direct something (e.g., a fishing line, a spell)+aspersionsfalse or damaging remarks (originally, a sprinkling of holy water)
◇ Mental Image
The phrase evokes the image of someone metaphorically 'throwing' harmful words at another person, like a pitcher hurling a ball. The word 'aspersions' adds the sense of something being 'sprinkled' or spread, emphasizing the spread of damaging claims.
◈ When to Use
During a corporate meeting, a manager publicly questions a colleague's competence without evidence. A coworker might later say, 'He cast aspersions on her professional abilities, which was completely unfair.'
◉ Cultural Note
The phrase has roots in religious ceremonies where holy water (aspersion) was sprinkled, symbolizing purification. Over time, the metaphorical sense of 'sprinkling' damaging remarks took hold, reflecting how false accusations can 'taint' a person's reputation.
formal

to criticize someone or something unfairly or falsely to damage their reputation

The politician cast aspersions on his opponent's character during the debate.

The politician unfairly attacked his rival's reputation in the debate.

She refused to cast aspersions on her colleagues despite their disagreements.

She chose not to unfairly criticize her coworkers even when they disagreed.

💡

Often used in legal, political, or professional contexts where accusations are baseless.

Collocations

cast aspersions onto make unfair criticisms about someone or somethingunfounded aspersionscriticisms that lack evidence or truth

Related Phrases

rain on someone's paradeidiom
to spoil someone's plans or happiness
throw shadeslang
to express disrespect or criticism subtly

💡Pro Tip

Avoiding Misuse

Do not use 'cast aspersions' for constructive criticism or honest feedback. It specifically refers to unfair or false attacks on reputation.

⚡Gold Rule

Formal Tone

Use 'cast aspersions' in formal writing or speech, such as legal documents, debates, or professional settings.

📖Word Origin

From Latin 'aspersio' (sprinkling), via Old French 'aspersion' (slander). The phrase 'cast aspersions' emerged in English in the 17th century, originally referring to the act of sprinkling holy water (aspersion) but later metaphorically used for damaging remarks.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is formal and often used in serious contexts like law, politics, or workplace disputes. It implies malicious intent behind the criticism.

Word Breakdown

cast
to throw or direct something
verb
+
aspersions
false or damaging remarks
noun
English Dictionary