fall from grace
Meaning
To lose favor, respect, or a high position/status, often after a mistake, scandal, or wrongdoing.
Origin
From Christian theology: Adam and Eve’s “Fall” from God’s grace through sin. It broadened to mean losing favor or status after wrongdoing.
Notes
Slightly formal and often critical; implies a notable drop from previously admired status, usually tied to misconduct or scandal. Common in news/commentary; can sound judgmental.
Examples
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The senator’s fall from grace came after the corruption investigation revealed years of bribes.
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Once praised as a visionary CEO, she suffered a sudden fall from grace when the company’s fraud was exposed.
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His fall from grace was swift: one reckless tweet cost him his job and his reputation.
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The athlete’s fall from grace shocked fans who had seen him as a role model.
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After the scandal, the charity faced a public fall from grace and struggled to regain donors’ trust.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase: “fall from grace” (often with “a” or modifiers: “a dramatic fall from grace”). Verb inflects (falls/fell/has fallen). Often used with “suffer/experience.”
Synonyms
- lose favor
- fall out of favor
- be disgraced
- be discredited
- lose face
- take a downfall
Antonyms
- rise to prominence
- rise in favor
- gain respect
- win approval