The cruise ship 'lived up to its reputation'. [=the cruise ship was as good, enjoyable, etc., as we were told it would be]
I know that the restaurant, by 'reputation', is excellent. [=the restaurant has an excellent reputation]
This car dealership has a good/bad 'reputation'. [=people think that the car dealership is good/bad]
(..) but he's out looking for me... and I'm sort of scared to walk home alone. Why'd you come here? You guys just sort of have this reputation. I was kind of hoping you'd help me out. Thanks for doing this. It's no big deal. I'd do it for any girl. (..)1996 Foxfire