leave a scar

USAGE SUMMARY

"leave a scar" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe the physical or emotional mark or lasting effect that an event or experience has on a person. Example: "The car accident may have only lasted a few seconds, but it left a scar on Mark's heart that would never fully heal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Will Phish leave a scar?

The New York Times - Arts

"Elbows leave a scar," Dr. Marcus said.

The New York Times

I was terrified it would leave a scar.

The New York Times - Style

It did not leave a scar on the British psyche.

The Guardian

Perhaps a rock fall would leave a scar cleared of campion and grass.

The Guardian - Books

"Our intent is not to leave a scar on the land".

The New York Times

Is it more interesting to leave your mark or to leave a scar?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Perhaps leaving a scar.

The New York Times - Sports

It leaves a scar.

The New York Times - Health

Or left a scar.

The New York Times

Why is he so dark?' It left a scar.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "leave a scar", be mindful of whether you're referring to a physical or emotional wound, as the context can significantly alter the interpretation. Make sure the context clearly conveys the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "leave a scar" lightly. The phrase suggests a significant, lasting negative impact. Consider alternatives like "leave a mark" or "have an effect" if the impact is less severe.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leave a scar" functions as a verb phrase, typically used transitively, where "leave" is the verb and "a scar" is the direct object. It describes the action of causing a lasting negative impact, either physical or emotional. As confirmed by Ludwig, this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

18%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "leave a scar" is a widely used and grammatically sound expression that signifies a lasting negative impact, both physically and emotionally. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is appropriate for various contexts, ranging from news reports to personal narratives. While versatile, it's essential to consider the gravity of the phrase and ensure its usage aligns with the intended level of impact. When a less severe consequence is meant consider to use leave a mark. Top sources that use this phrase include The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause lasting damage

Specifically implies harm or injury that continues over time.

have a permanent effect

Emphasizes the irreversibility of the impact.

leave a mark

General term for having a lasting effect, broader than just negative impacts.

have a lasting impact

Focuses on the long-term influence rather than the specific nature of the impact.

traumatize

Highlights the deep emotional impact and potential psychological consequences.

inflict a wound

Emphasizes the act of causing harm, whether physical or emotional.

take its toll

Highlights the cumulative negative effect of something over time.

have repercussions

Focuses on the consequences or aftereffects of an action or event.

create a lasting impression

Can be positive or negative, unlike "leave a scar" which is typically negative.

leave an enduring legacy

Refers to effects that last a very long time, typically used in a historical or broader context.

FAQs

How can I use "leave a scar" in a sentence?

You can use "leave a scar" to describe a lasting negative impact from an event or experience. For example, "The war will "leave a scar" on the nation's psyche."

What are some alternatives to saying "leave a scar"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "leave a mark", "have a lasting impact", or "cause lasting damage".

Is it appropriate to use "leave a scar" in a positive context?

No, "leave a scar" typically implies a negative or traumatic experience. Using it in a positive context would be contradictory and confusing. Consider using "create a lasting impression" instead.

What's the difference between "leave a scar" and "leave a mark"?

"Leave a scar" suggests a deep, often emotional wound that remains long after the event, whereas "leave a mark" is more general and can refer to any lasting impact, whether positive or negative.