a marked man

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a marked man" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who is in danger or has been singled out for some reason, often implying that they are being targeted by others. Example: "After his testimony against the crime syndicate, he became a marked man, constantly looking over his shoulder."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Maybe I will be a marked man in the summer.

The Guardian - Sport

I'm a marked man.

The New York Times - Sports

The skeptic was a marked man.

The New Yorker

"He's a marked man," Coughlin said.

The New York Times - Sports

I was now a marked man.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Flitcroft was a marked man.

The Guardian - Sport

But it made him a marked man.

The Guardian - Sport

"I'm definitely a marked man," Freeman said.

The New York Times - Sports

And Mr. Maltese is a marked man.

The New York Times

La Russa called him "a marked man".

The New York Times - Sports

He comes across as a marked man.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase “a marked man” when you want to convey that someone is being targeted or is in danger due to their actions, beliefs, or associations. It is effective in highlighting vulnerability and potential consequences.

Common error

Avoid using “a marked man” when simply describing someone who is well-known or famous. The phrase specifically implies a negative targeting, not just general recognition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a marked man" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies someone who is singled out, often negatively, indicating they are in danger or targeted. This aligns with Ludwig's findings, which showcase its use in various contexts to denote vulnerability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Sports

21%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a marked man" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone who is being targeted or is in danger, as affirmed by Ludwig. It's important to note, however, that its use should be limited to situations where someone is truly at risk and not simply well-known. Ludwig highlights that this phrase is frequently found in news and media contexts. When you want to convey a sense of danger, vulnerability, or being singled out, “a marked man” can be quite effective. Remember to not confuse “a marked man” for general recognition or fame.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a marked target

Combines the elements of being both singled out and targeted.

a selected target

Highlights deliberate choice in being singled out.

a target

Focuses on being the object of intentional action, often negative.

a person in peril

Emphasizes the danger and risk the person faces.

a hunted individual

Suggests relentless pursuit and potential capture or harm.

an endangered person

Stresses the vulnerability and threat to the person's safety.

a wanted person

Highlights being sought after, typically by law enforcement.

a watched individual

Emphasizes being under surveillance or observation.

a person of interest

Indicates being under scrutiny or investigation.

a condemned person

Implies a formal sentence or judgment against the person.

FAQs

How can I use "a marked man" in a sentence?

The phrase "a marked man" is used to describe someone who is in danger or has been singled out, often negatively. For example: After exposing the company's fraud, he became "a marked man".

What's a good alternative to "a marked man"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use alternatives such as "a target", "a person in peril", or "a hunted individual".

Does "a marked man" always imply physical danger?

While it often suggests physical danger, "a marked man" can also imply other forms of targeting, such as professional repercussions or social ostracization. It indicates a heightened risk or vulnerability.

Is it appropriate to use "a marked man" in a formal setting?

Yes, the phrase "a marked man" is appropriate for both formal and informal settings, as long as the context calls for describing someone in a vulnerable or targeted position.