top marks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "top marks" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate high scores or excellent performance, often in an academic context. Example: "She received top marks in her final exams, demonstrating her hard work and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Massachusetts scored 527, close to Singapore's top marks.

Los Angeles Times

Top marks.

The Guardian - Film

Top marks for me.

Independent

Top marks all round!

Independent

Top marks for effort, Kate.

Independent

Top marks Dannie Bulman.

The Guardian - Sport

Top marks for you.

The Guardian - Sport

Top marks Rob Purdie.

The Guardian - Sport

Top marks all round, then.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Top marks for ambiguity and obfuscation.

The Guardian - Business

Wiese gets top marks for opportunism.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience. "Top marks" is common, but more formal situations might benefit from phrases like "high distinction" or "first-class honors".

Common error

Avoid using "top marks" in contexts where a more specific term like "perfect score" or "highest grade" would be more accurate. "Top marks" implies general excellence, not necessarily a perfect result.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "top marks" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase indicates excellent performance or the highest possible score.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

14%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Science

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "top marks" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote excellent performance or the highest possible score. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news and media and academic settings. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to consider the audience and opt for more formal alternatives like "high distinction" or "first-class honors" in strictly academic environments. When writing with "top marks", ensure it accurately reflects superior achievement and avoid using it where a more specific term is appropriate. Remember that variations like "highest grades" or "excellent scores" can provide nuanced alternatives for diverse writing needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highest grades

Replaces "marks" with "grades", common in academic contexts.

top grades

A simpler and more direct synonym, suitable for general use.

excellent marks

Swaps "top" with "excellent", emphasizing the quality of the marks.

excellent scores

Uses "scores" instead of "marks", suitable for various performance evaluations.

perfect scores

Implies flawless performance, a stronger emphasis than "top marks".

outstanding results

Focuses on the outcome rather than the grading process.

stellar performance

Highlights the quality of the performance leading to the marks.

first-class honors

More formal and specific to academic achievements at the university level.

high distinction

Indicates a very high level of achievement, often used in formal academic settings.

exceptional achievement

Focuses on the achievement itself, rather than the specific marks received.

FAQs

How can I use "top marks" in a sentence?

You can use "top marks" to describe excellent performance or achievement, such as: "She received "top marks" on her final project" or "The company earned "top marks" for its innovative design".

What are some alternatives to "top marks"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "highest grades", "excellent scores", or "outstanding results" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "top marks" formal or informal?

"Top marks" is generally considered a neutral to slightly informal phrase, suitable for most contexts. In highly formal or academic settings, phrases like "high distinction" or "first-class honors" may be more appropriate.

What does it mean to receive "top marks"?

Receiving "top marks" means achieving the highest possible or an exceptionally high score in an assessment, indicating excellent performance and mastery of the subject matter.