Reputation & Status

Six idioms native speakers use when talking about image, approval, popularity, and how others see you.

Meaning

To become well known and respected for what you do.

Example

"She made a name for herself as one of the city's best interior designers."

Conversation questions

In what field would you like to make a name for yourself?
What usually matters more for building a reputation: talent, consistency, or networking?

Meaning

A genuinely kind, honest, and dependable person.

Example

"He may be quiet, but he's a good egg and everyone trusts him."

Conversation questions

Meaning

The person in a family or group who seems very different from the others, often in a disapproved way.

Example

"As the only artist in a family of lawyers, she always felt like the black sheep."

Conversation questions

Do you think being the black sheep is always a negative thing?
Why do families sometimes struggle to accept someone who chooses a different path?

Meaning

The person or event everyone is talking about.

Example

"After the restaurant won the award, it became the talk of the town."

Conversation questions

Meaning

In someone's favour because they are pleased with you.

Example

"She's in the manager's good books after handling that difficult client so well."

Conversation questions

What kinds of behaviour put people in their boss's good books?
Is trying to stay in someone's good books always genuine, or can it become political?

Meaning

To feel embarrassed or look foolish in front of other people.

Example

"He did not want to lose face by admitting he did not understand the question."

Conversation questions