be unpopular

[/bi ʌnˈpɒpjələr/]
verb phrase
ser impopular
1. to lack approval, support, or favor from most people; to be disliked or not well-regarded by the general public
His controversial decision to ban ice cream made him be unpopular with the children.
Sua decisão controversa de banir sorvete o fez ser impopular com as crianças.
2. to fail to attract interest or enthusiasm from a large group of people
Classical music tends to be unpopular among teenagers.
Música clássica tende a ser impopular entre adolescentes.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, being unpopular carries social significance. In Brazil, social harmony is valued, so being unpopular can affect workplace and community relationships. In the USA, unpopularity is often referenced in high school and celebrity contexts. The phrase is commonly used to describe politicians, celebrities, or controversial figures.
NYC Slang
fall out of favor; be a persona non grata
Synonyms / Sinônimos
be dislikedbe unfavorablebe out of favorbe frowned uponlack popularity
Antonyms / Antônimos
be popularbe likedbe favoredbe well-regardedbe admired

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
ser impopular
Standard usage in Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
ser impopular / cair na desgraça
Colloquial: 'cair na desgraça' (fall into disgrace) is also used
São Paulo
ser impopular / não ter apoio
Standard usage with emphasis on lack of support
Portugal
ser impopular
Same as Brazilian Portuguese, standard usage

Related Words

unpopularunpopularitypopularitydislikefavoracceptance

Related Idioms & Phrases

fall out of favor
be in the doghouse
lose public support
wear out one's welcome
catch flak for something
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