having a mark

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "having a mark" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the presence of a distinguishing feature or symbol on an object or person. Example: "The document was considered invalid due to having a mark that indicated it had been tampered with."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It's as though the simple act of having a mark on your skin – any mark – makes you a vulgarian.

Independent

"There's a divide between success and actually having a mark on music," she says.

Los Angeles Times

Selwood's coach Chris Scott lauded him as having "a mark of a great player" who could "find a way to change things... and play his best when the game was demanding it" even after "struggling at times within games and when it seemingly isn't going (his) way".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Do I have a mark?" We told him no.

The New Yorker

"Everything I do has a mark of excellence on it".

The New York Times

The American had a mark of 19.14 meters.

The New York Times - Sports

In fact she did not have a mark on her.

The Guardian - Music

Some had marks on their backs and shoulders, and one had a mark on the face, she said.

The New York Times

We will have a mark on the stage to indicate this spot.

Stanford University

The Brit also has a mark under his right eye, but it's not a cut.

The Guardian - Sport

"He punched my dad in the nose; my dad has a mark on the nose.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a physical attribute, use "having a mark" to denote a visible sign or blemish.

Common error

Avoid using "having a mark" when referring to abstract qualities or achievements. Use more appropriate phrases like "making an impact" or "showing promise" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "having a mark" functions primarily as a verbal phrase describing the state of possessing a visible or noticeable feature. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. As evidenced by the examples, it often refers to a physical attribute or an indication of impact.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "having a mark" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the presence of a distinguishing feature or impact. Ludwig AI confirms this. While not exceedingly common, it finds use across news, general discussions, and scientific contexts. When writing, ensure the phrase aligns with the intended meaning of possessing a noticeable attribute, and avoid using it in overly abstract scenarios. Alternatives such as "bearing a sign" or "displaying an indication" can offer similar meanings depending on context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bearing a sign

Focuses on the act of carrying or displaying a visible indicator.

possessing a characteristic

Highlights the ownership of a distinct attribute or feature.

displaying an indication

Emphasizes the act of showing or revealing something.

exhibiting a feature

Focuses on the act of showing a particular aspect or trait.

showing an imprint

Highlights the presence of a lasting effect or impression.

leaving an impression

Shifts the focus to the act of creating a notable effect.

making an impact

Emphasizes the act of having a significant effect.

leaving a trace

Focuses on the presence of a slight but noticeable remainder.

showing evidence

Highlights the display of proof or indication.

demonstrating influence

Emphasizes the act of exhibiting power or effect.

FAQs

How can I use "having a mark" in a sentence?

You can use "having a mark" to describe someone or something that possesses a physical or metaphorical indication. For example, "The paper was considered invalid because of "having a mark" on it."

What phrases are similar to "having a mark"?

Phrases similar to "having a mark" include "bearing a sign", "displaying an indication", or "leaving an impression", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "having a mark"?

It's appropriate to use "having a mark" when referring to the presence of a physical sign, blemish, or indication on something. It can also be used metaphorically to denote influence or impact.

Is there a more formal way to say "having a mark"?

A more formal way to express the same idea might be "bearing an imprint" or "exhibiting a characteristic", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.