mark of honor

USAGE SUMMARY

"mark of honor" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to something that symbolizes respect, recognition, or commendation for a person or their actions. Example: The medal was a mark of honor for his bravery in battle.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"Killing is a mark of honor".

The New York Times

This is an Open in which "saving a bogey" has become a mark of honor.

The New Yorker

"I was bit right behind the knuckle," she said, as though it were a mark of honor.

The New York Times

Later, he strolled from the presidential palace while flanked by soldiers in gleaming uniforms, in a mark of honor for his last day at work.

The New York Times

For the first time in my life, I was stunned to encounter a culture that wore its widespread hatred of soccer as a proud mark of honor.

The Washington Post

To Mr. Coburn, charges of obstructionism are a mark of honor he will wear as proudly as ever in the coming weeks.

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

No matter how many times you hear that your stretch marks are" badges of honor" and that all bodies are beautiful, you can't buy in.

HuffPost

It is no badge of honor, no mark of worth.

Huffington Post

At 13% fresh, Mother's Day doesn't boast the lowest mark of the year (that honor goes to February's Cabin Fever remake, which has the distinction of a 0% score), but given that reviews have just begun to be published after some publications broke the embargo, the percentage could go far lower.

The Guardian - Film

At the top of Lands End is the Legion of Honor, which marks the western start of the first ever coast-to-coast highway built in 1913.

Huffington Post

Failure should not be a mark of shame, but a badge of honor showing the world that you are willing to try again.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "mark of honor" to describe something that visibly and publicly represents a significant achievement or quality deserving of respect. For instance, a medal awarded for bravery can be considered a "mark of honor".

Common error

Avoid using "mark of honor" sarcastically or ironically, as it typically carries a positive and sincere connotation. Using it in a situation where sincerity is absent can lead to misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mark of honor" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or an appositive. It describes something that serves as a symbol or representation of respect, achievement, or commendation. Ludwig AI confirms this through its example sentences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

23%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase “mark of honor” is a common expression used to signify something that represents respect, recognition, or commendation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically correct and versatile, appearing frequently in news, academic writing, and general discourse. While phrases like "badge of honor" or "symbol of respect" carry similar meanings, “mark of honor” emphasizes the visual or symbolic representation of achievement. When using this phrase, ensure the context conveys sincerity to avoid misinterpretation. Overall, “mark of honor” remains a reliable and effective way to acknowledge notable accomplishments and qualities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

badge of honor

This alternative emphasizes the pride and distinction associated with an achievement or attribute.

symbol of respect

This phrase directly highlights the aspect of admiration and high regard.

token of esteem

This alternative suggests a tangible or intangible expression of high regard.

attribute of distinction

This phrase emphasizes that the honor is a characteristic that sets someone apart.

sign of recognition

This phrase highlights that the honor serves as acknowledgement of someone's merit.

emblem of pride

Focuses on the feeling of satisfaction and self-respect derived from the honor.

laurel wreath

This is a more archaic, symbolic representation of honor and victory.

seal of approval

Implies official endorsement and recognition of quality or achievement.

citation for merit

This refers to a formal acknowledgement of exceptional performance or service.

accolade

This term is a formal expression of praise or approval.

FAQs

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

You can use "mark of honor" to describe a physical object, an achievement, or a quality that symbolizes respect or recognition. For example: "The medal was a "mark of honor" for his years of service."

What phrases are similar to "mark of honor"?

Similar phrases include "badge of honor", "symbol of respect", and "token of esteem". Each of these carries a slightly different nuance but conveys a similar sense of recognition or commendation.

Is "mark of honor" a formal or informal expression?

"Mark of honor" is generally considered a neutral to formal expression suitable for both professional and general contexts. The level of formality can depend on the surrounding language and the situation in which it's used.

Can "mark of honor" be used sarcastically?

While technically possible to use it sarcastically, "mark of honor" typically carries a positive connotation. Sarcastic usage might be confusing or misinterpreted, so it's best reserved for situations where the intent is clearly communicated through context or tone.