What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
besmirch
Example
He tried to besmirch her reputation by spreading false rumors. [besmirch: verb]
Example
The mud on his shoes besmirched the clean carpet. [besmirched: past tense]
sully
Example
His scandalous behavior sullied his family's good name. [sully: verb]
Example
The rainstorm sullied the freshly washed car. [sullied: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Besmirch is more commonly used than sully in everyday language, especially when referring to damaging someone's reputation. Sully is less frequently used and has a broader range of meanings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between besmirch and sully?
While both besmirch and sully can be used in both formal and informal contexts, besmirch is slightly more formal in tone compared to sully.
