Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Sully” — 5 Other Ways to Say It
To make something pure or clean become dirty or impure, either physically or in terms of reputation and honour.
Meaning of Sully
To damage the purity, integrity, or honour of someone or something; to soil or tarnish morally or physically.
How to Pronounce Sully
IPA: /ˈsʌli/ Stress: Oo
Stress the first syllable: SUL-ee. The 'u' sounds like in 'but', and the double 'l' is soft (not harsh).
5 Synonyms for Sully — Words Similar to Sully
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
tarnish
/ˈtɑːnɪʃ/To make something less shiny, valuable, or respected. To damage the reputation or quality of someone or something.
Example: The manager's unfair decisions tarnished the company's image in the market.
besmirch
/bɪˈsmɜːtʃ/To harm someone's reputation or to make someone's character look bad by doing something shameful or wrong.
Example: The scandal besmirched the company's reputation for decades.
damage
/ˈdæmɪdʒ/Harm or breaking something so it doesn't work as well.
Example: The storm caused severe damage to homes.
Smart Synonyms for Sully — When to Use Each
tarnish
Slightly less literary; more commonly used in modern
besmirch
Equally formal; emphasizes reputation more than purity
taint
More clinical; emphasizes contamination or moral corruption
How to Use Sully and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- The conspiracy sullied the president's legacy and historical reputation. C2
- His unethical conduct sullied the integrity of the entire institution. C2
- The muddy water sullied the pristine appearance of the white marble floor. C2
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Sully
What is another word for "sully"?
Common synonyms for "sully" include: tarnish, besmirch, damage, stain, taint.
What can I say instead of "sully"?
Try one of these alternatives: tarnish, besmirch, damage, stain, taint. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "sully" formal or informal?
"sully" is generally used in formal contexts. Use it in writing, business, and academic settings.
When should I use "sully" instead of "tarnish"?
Use "sully" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "tarnish" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.