leaves a mark

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "leaves a mark" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a lasting impression or effect that something has on a person or situation. An example is: "The experience left a mark on her, shaping her future decisions." Alternative expressions include "makes an impression" and "has an impact."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Nothing leaves a mark.

The Guardian

But, over time, it leaves a mark.

The New Yorker

"It leaves a mark," Ms. Piaggi said.

The New York Times - Style

"It leaves a mark," D'Antoni said.

The New York Times - Sports

"It leaves a mark on you," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Friends lost in Iraq — all of it leaves a mark.

The New York Times

Such political volatility naturally leaves a mark on the market.

Harvard Business Review

Port relocation leaves a mark on the city's landscape and history.

Journal of Cleaner Production

But it leaves a mark on you, and in my case, very much so.

The New York Times

"They can't hit you in the face, it leaves a mark.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I believe a book like this--one that you fall for, one that breaks your heart in the best possible way, one that poses a larger existential question--leaves a mark that stays with you long after you've turned the final page.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical impacts, "leaves a mark" is appropriate for visible traces, like impressions or stains.

Common error

Avoid using "leaves a mark" too frequently in your writing. Vary your language with synonyms like "makes an impression" or "has a lasting effect" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leaves a mark" primarily functions as a verb phrase where "leaves" is the verb and "a mark" is the direct object. It is used to express that something causes a lasting impression or effect. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through various examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Academia

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "leaves a mark" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a lasting impact or impression. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a verb phrase, typically used to emphasize the enduring effect of an event, action, or experience. While the phrase is widely applicable, it is essential to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "makes an impression" or "has a lasting effect". Usage spans from News & Media to academic contexts, indicating a neutral register. In conclusion, "leaves a mark" is a versatile and effective phrase for conveying lasting effects, making it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

makes an impression

Focuses on the act of creating a notable impact.

has a lasting effect

Emphasizes the enduring nature of the impact.

creates a lasting impression

Combines the ideas of creation and endurance of impact.

has a significant impact

Highlights the importance of the effect.

leaves an imprint

Uses a more literal image of something being stamped or pressed onto something else.

has a profound effect

Stresses the depth and intensity of the influence.

makes a difference

Focuses on the positive change resulting from the action.

exerts an influence

Highlights the power and reach of the impact.

creates a legacy

Emphasizes the long-term impact, often after someone's passing.

imposes itself

Highlights the power of the impact.

FAQs

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

The phrase "leaves a mark" is used to describe something that has a lasting impact or effect. For example, "The war "leaves a scar" on the nation's psyche."

What can I say instead of "leaves a mark"?

You can use alternatives like "makes an impression", "has a lasting effect", or "creates a legacy" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "leave a mark" instead of "leaves a mark"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "leaves a mark" with singular subjects (e.g., 'The experience leaves a mark'). Use "leave a mark" with plural subjects (e.g., 'Those events leave a mark').

What's the difference between "leaves a mark" and "leaves a trace"?

"Leaves a mark" implies a significant and often emotional impact, while "leaves a trace" suggests a slight, physical or indirect indication of something's presence or passage.