How to Say "tarnished" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “tarnished” is “manchado” — B2 level.
English → SpanishB2
adjectiveB2formal
regarding reputation or honor
Examples
Su reputación quedó manchada tras el juicio.
His reputation was tarnished after the trial.
Tiene un pasado manchado por la corrupción.
He has a past tainted by corruption.
Es difícil limpiar un honor manchado.
It is difficult to clean a disgraced honor.
Using 'quedar' for impact
Instead of 'ser' or 'estar,' we often use 'quedar' (to remain/end up) with 'manchado' to show the lasting result of a scandal or mistake.
Confusing 'sucio' and 'manchado'
Mistake: “Su nombre está sucio.”
Correction: Su nombre está manchado. While 'sucio' (dirty) works, 'manchado' is the much more common and professional way to talk about a ruined reputation.
Related Translations
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