# black mark

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/black-mark
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Something that negatively affects someone's reputation.

## Examples

- Missing the deadline was a black mark on his record.
- The manager warned that arriving late to every meeting would be a black mark against her professional reputation.
- Despite his many years of dedicated service, the scandal remained a permanent black mark that overshadowed his otherwise distinguished career.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.