a black mark on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a black mark on" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a negative aspect or blemish on someone's reputation or record. Example: "The scandal was a black mark on his otherwise stellar career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His wife, Tessie gets one with a black mark on it.

The New Yorker

Even so, this new scandal — or at least the apperance of one — puts a black mark on an already tarnished season, doubly so for the Belichick/Brady dynasty.

The Guardian - Sport

Still, it is a black mark on Delta managements' reputation, and one that investors don't like.

Forbes

"You are a black mark on all Alawites," the officer spat out at one point.

The New York Times

This will clearly be a black mark on him.

The New York Times

"There is literally a black mark on their record," he said.

The New York Times

In some cases, student borrowers will default, putting a black mark on their financial future.

The New York Times

All that left "a black mark on me" that today's bureaucrats can somehow spot, he senses.

The New York Times

This leaves a black mark on the country's otherwise clean climate record," she said.

The Guardian

"Losing this play-off would be a black mark on my career," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

If they fail, it will be a black mark on the invasion.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a black mark on" to emphasize a negative impact on reputation, record or image. For instance, "The accounting scandal left a black mark on the company's reputation."

Common error

Avoid using "a black mark on" in situations where you want to convey a positive outcome or achievement. This phrase always implies a negative connotation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a black mark on" functions as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, often indicating a detrimental effect. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a black mark on" is a common idiom used to describe something that negatively impacts a person's or entity's reputation or record. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. It conveys a sense of disapproval or criticism, highlighting a blemish or stain on someone's image. While "a stain on" and "a blemish on" are similar alternatives, it's crucial to avoid using "a black mark on" in positive contexts. Being such a widespread expression, make sure to avoid misusing the phrase in positive contexts. The analysis demonstrates the phrase's consistent negative connotation and broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a stain on

Changes the metaphor from a mark to a stain, implying a lasting negative impact.

a blemish on

Replaces "mark" with "blemish", suggesting a flaw or imperfection.

a blot on

Uses "blot" instead of "mark", indicating a dark spot or stain.

a discredit to

Focuses on the damage to someone's reputation or credibility.

a disgrace to

Emphasizes the shame or dishonor caused by something.

a shadow over

Shifts the imagery to a shadow, suggesting a lingering negative influence.

a dark spot on

Replaces "mark" with "spot", reinforcing the negative connotation.

an indictment of

Highlights the accusatory nature of the negative impact.

a scar on

Uses "scar" as a metaphor for a lasting negative effect.

a tarnish on

Implies a loss of luster or shine due to a negative event.

FAQs

How can I use "a black mark on" in a sentence?

Use "a black mark on" to describe something that negatively impacts someone's reputation or record. For example, "The scandal was "a black mark on" his career."

What can I say instead of "a black mark on"?

You can use alternatives like "a stain on", "a blemish on", or "a disgrace to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a black mark on" or "a black mark for"?

"A black mark on" is the correct and idiomatic phrase to indicate something that damages a reputation or record. "A black mark for" is not a standard expression.

What's the difference between "a black mark on" and "a stain on"?

Both "a black mark on" and "a stain on" convey a negative impact, but "a stain on" often implies a more permanent or difficult-to-remove effect compared to "a black mark on".