left a mark on me

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "left a mark on me" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that someone or something has had a significant impact or influence on you, often emotionally or psychologically. Example: "The kindness of the strangers I met during my travels left a mark on me that I will never forget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

And so, despite the difficulties, we lived in a succession of houses, each one of which left a mark on me.

Los Angeles Times

But still with all that said, one point in the discussion really left a mark on me.

Forbes

"This left a mark on me.

The New York Times

"Those years definitely left a mark on me and shaped my political outlook and values".

The New York Times

He said the "debilitating" briefing he endured from Brown allies "left a mark on me that you really can't erase".

Independent

It's not exactly new in politics but it left a mark on me that you really can't erase".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"That left a mark on my psyche".

The New York Times

The tragedy left a mark on Jackson.

The Guardian

He left a mark on the network literally.

The New York Times

HIS recovery has left a mark on those around him.

The New York Times

"She has left a mark on us all".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "left a mark on me" to convey a personal and emotional impact, especially when referring to experiences or people that have deeply influenced your values or outlook.

Common error

While "left a mark on me" is acceptable, consider using more formal alternatives like "had a lasting impact" in professional or academic writing to maintain a more objective tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "left a mark on me" functions as an idiomatic expression used to convey that someone or something has had a significant and lasting impact on an individual's thoughts, feelings, or character. This aligns with Ludwig's assessment of its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "left a mark on me" is an idiomatic expression that conveys a lasting and significant impact on an individual. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable, although more suited for neutral to informal contexts. The phrase functions to express a personal connection to an experience or person that has shaped one's perspective or values. While frequently found in news and media, consider using more formal alternatives like "had a lasting impact" in professional or academic settings. The provided examples in Ludwig emphasize its emotive quality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

had a lasting impact on me

Replaces the idiomatic "left a mark" with a more literal description of a lasting effect.

had a profound effect on me

Highlights the depth and significance of the effect.

made a significant impression on me

Focuses on the impression created, rather than the mark left behind.

influenced me deeply

Highlights the depth of the influence experienced.

shaped my perspective

Emphasizes the effect on one's viewpoint or understanding.

changed me profoundly

Indicates a significant alteration in one's character or outlook.

affected me greatly

General expression of being strongly affected by something.

stuck with me

Suggests the memory or experience remained vivid and impactful.

resonated with me deeply

Indicates a strong emotional or intellectual connection.

etched itself in my memory

Implies a permanent and vivid remembrance.

FAQs

How can I use "left a mark on me" in a sentence?

You can use "left a mark on me" to express that someone or something has had a significant impact on your life or perspective. For example, "The stories my grandfather told me "left a mark on me", shaping my understanding of history."

What are some alternatives to "left a mark on me"?

Alternatives include "had a lasting impact on me", "made a significant impression on me", or "influenced me deeply". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "left a mark on me" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "left a mark on me" is generally more suitable for informal or personal writing. In formal contexts, consider using more objective phrases like "had a significant influence" or "played a crucial role."

What's the difference between "left a mark on me" and "had an effect on me"?

"Left a mark on me" implies a deeper, more lasting impact than simply "had an effect on me". The former suggests a fundamental change or influence, while the latter can refer to a more superficial or temporary impact.