A good reputation is like a precious jewel, hard-earned and easily lost.
Meaning: This means that a good reputation is something that is valuable and important, but it can be easily damaged or lost if someone is dishonest or does something wrong.
Choice of Words: Reputation is the opinion that people have of someone or something. Precious means very valuable and important. Jewel is a valuable stone or piece of jewelry. Hard-earned means obtained with a lot of effort and work. Easily lost means can be lost quickly or without much effort.
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Related Expressions