mark of disgrace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mark of disgrace" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a symbol or indication of shame or dishonor associated with a person or action. Example: "The scandal left a mark of disgrace on his reputation that he struggled to overcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

In "Community Service, Mark of Disgrace" (Op-Ed, March 12), Barbara Gordon does a good job of defending what is wrong with most standard systems of punishment.

The New York Times

Stigma is a derivation of the Greek word for tattoo and is described as "a mark of disgrace or infamy, a stain or reproach, as on one's reputation".

The Guardian

Barbara Gordon ("Community Service, Mark of Disgrace," Op-Ed, March 12) argues, in a great leap of elliptical thinking, that putting criminals to work in hospitals, instead of mopping jail floors, somehow trivializes the work of those who volunteer out of the goodness of their hearts.

The New York Times

A failed company is not a mark of disgrace that you wear forever.

Forbes

A stigma is a mark of disgrace.

Huffington Post

STIGMA: A mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality or person.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Many of the worst marks of disgrace on the collective body of the Academy are the self-inflicted result of its Constitutionally derelict leaders violating the religious liberties of cadets, faculty, and staff.

Huffington Post

Literally, however, stigma has come to symbolise a mark of shame or disgrace [ 56].

BMC Medical Ethics

It was suffered by numerous ignominious emperors of Rome in the early empire, and, even in the later empire, it was a mark of great disgrace.

The New York Times

Stigma can be defined as a sign of disgrace or discredit, which sets a person apart from others [ 1].

BMC Public Health

Serious mental illness or ('consuming mental health services') is not, "a mark of shame or discredit", or "a mark or token of infamy or disgrace".

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "mark of disgrace" to describe actions or events that have caused significant shame or dishonor to an individual, group, or institution. Ensure the context clearly indicates the source and impact of the disgrace.

Common error

Avoid using "mark of disgrace" to describe minor inconveniences or disagreements. This phrase carries a strong connotation of shame and is best reserved for situations involving serious ethical breaches or significant reputational damage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mark of disgrace" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies something as shameful or dishonorable. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is valid and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "mark of disgrace" is a grammatically sound noun phrase employed to denote something that brings shame or dishonor. As affirmed by Ludwig, it's perfectly correct for use in written English. While it appears most frequently in News & Media, it also finds application in scientific contexts. When using "mark of disgrace", it's important to reserve it for situations of considerable gravity, avoiding overuse in trivial scenarios. Consider using alternatives like "badge of shame" or "stigma of dishonor" depending on context. The phrase serves to express strong disapproval, highlighting the reprehensible nature of a given subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

badge of shame

Replaces "mark" with "badge", implying a visible sign of shame.

stigma of dishonor

Substitutes "mark" with "stigma" and "disgrace" with "dishonor", focusing on the negative perception associated with an action or characteristic.

brand of infamy

Uses "brand" instead of "mark" to emphasize the lasting and recognizable nature of the disgrace.

taint of scandal

Replaces "mark of disgrace" with the idea of being tainted by a scandal, highlighting the damaging effect.

blot on one's reputation

Emphasizes the negative impact on someone's reputation, suggesting a blemish or stain.

sign of ignominy

Replaces "mark of disgrace" with the more formal "sign of ignominy", indicating deep public shame or disgrace.

shadow of disrepute

Suggests that the disgrace casts a lasting shadow, negatively affecting perception.

stain of dishonor

Replaces "mark" with "stain", emphasizing the lasting and difficult-to-remove nature of the disgrace.

symbol of shame

Uses "symbol" to represent disgrace, emphasizing its role as a representation of something negative.

legacy of disgrace

Focuses on the long-term impact of disgrace, emphasizing its role as something passed down or remembered.

FAQs

How can I use "mark of disgrace" in a sentence?

You can use "mark of disgrace" to describe something that brings shame or dishonor. For example: "The scandal left a "mark of disgrace" on his reputation."

What are some alternatives to "mark of disgrace"?

Some alternatives to "mark of disgrace" include "badge of shame", "stigma of dishonor", or "taint of scandal".

Is it appropriate to use "mark of disgrace" in formal writing?

Yes, "mark of disgrace" is appropriate for formal writing when describing situations involving significant shame or dishonor. However, consider the specific context and audience to ensure it's the most fitting phrase.

What is the difference between "mark of disgrace" and "stigma"?

"Mark of disgrace" refers to a specific event or action that causes shame, while "stigma" is a broader term referring to a negative perception or attribute associated with a person or group. A "mark of disgrace" can lead to a "stigma".