an indelible mark

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an indelible mark" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to something that makes a lasting impression, such as an event or experience that has had an influence that cannot be erased. For example, "The summer I spent abroad left an indelible mark on my life and shaped who I am today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It left an indelible mark".

The Guardian - Books

He made an indelible mark on Princeton.

Princeton University

He had made an indelible mark in British constitutional history.

Independent

This time left an indelible mark upon me.

The Guardian

Trevor Kletz has left an indelible mark on worldwide chemical process safety.

Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries

Wartime Oxford left an indelible mark on Jones.

The Guardian

But they made an indelible mark, said Mr. Korie.

The New York Times

She left an indelible mark on all of us.

The New York Times

She has left an indelible mark on the world.

The New York Times

It's not some piece of clay on which you put an indelible mark".

The New Yorker

But his association with Cunningham has left an indelible mark on his career.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an indelible mark", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being marked and by what. Specificity strengthens the impact of the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "an indelible mark" in overly sentimental or predictable situations. Overuse can diminish its impact; instead, opt for more specific or evocative language when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an indelible mark" functions as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb like 'leave' or 'make'. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase denotes something that creates a lasting, unforgettable impression. Ludwig provides several examples where this phrase is used to describe significant impacts on individuals, fields, or cultures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

22%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an indelible mark" is a phrase used to describe a lasting and significant impact, and according to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Analysis of Ludwig's data reveals that the phrase is frequently found in news and media, as well as academic writing, indicating its suitability for both general and formal contexts. It's crucial to ensure specificity when using this phrase to maximize its impact and avoid overuse in cliché contexts. Alternative phrases like "a lasting impression" or "a significant impact" can provide variety while maintaining the intended meaning. Remember, the power of "an indelible mark" lies in its ability to convey the depth and permanence of an influence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a lasting impression

Focuses on the enduring quality of the impact.

a permanent effect

Highlights the unchanging nature of the consequence.

a significant impact

Emphasizes the importance and magnitude of the influence.

a profound influence

Stresses the depth and pervasiveness of the effect.

a deep-seated effect

Implies an impact that is difficult to remove or change.

an enduring legacy

Highlights what is left behind for future generations.

a long-lasting consequence

Focuses on the temporal aspect of the result.

a hallmark

Highlights a distinctive feature or characteristic.

a defining characteristic

Emphasizes the role of the impact in shaping something's identity.

a crucial contribution

Stresses the importance of a contribution in achieving an important purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "an indelible mark" in a sentence?

Use "an indelible mark" to describe something that has a lasting and significant impact. For instance, "His work left "an indelible mark" on the field of medicine".

What are some synonyms for "an indelible mark"?

Alternatives to "an indelible mark" include "a lasting impression", "a permanent effect", or "a significant impact", which all convey a similar meaning of a lasting impact.

Is it better to say "indelible mark on" or "indelible mark in"?

The correct preposition is "on". You should say "an indelible mark on" something or someone. For example, "The experience left "an indelible mark" on her life".

What does it mean to say something leaves "an indelible mark"?

Saying something leaves "an indelible mark" means it creates a lasting and unerasable impression or influence. It suggests that the impact is profound and will not be easily forgotten.