wide of the mark
(Very) inaccurate.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Your guess about the price is wide of the mark.”
“The reporter's initial theory about the accident was wide of the mark, as new evidence soon proved.”
“Although the analyst claimed his forecasts were precise, his projections for the quarterly earnings remained significantly wide of the mark.”
From archery and sports jargon, the expression refers to an arrow or projectile failing to strike its intended target. The phrase is occasionally corrupted to wide off the mark or widely off the mark, though the original construction remains the standard form.
- 01
black mark
Something that negatively affects someone's reputation.
- 02
cut a wide swath
To behave in an expansive, flagrantly showy, or pushy manner, especially in public venues; to exert sweeping influence.
- 03
easy mark
Someone who is easily fooled or victimized.
- 04
get off the mark
To score one's first points
- 05
into the wide blue yonder
A faraway place which is unknown and mysterious.
- 06
make one's mark
To make, or leave, a lasting impression, especially to achieve prominent success.
- 07
mark my words
Listen to me; used before or after a statement one wishes to emphasize, especially a prediction.
- 08
mark one's own homework
To assume the role of evaluating one's doings when a disinterested party is required.
Last updated August 10, 2026