black marks
Strikes against you
Black marks are negative entries on someone's record, reputation, or standing.
The phrase draws on the literal image of a mark made in black ink to indicate a fault or failure.
If something is a black mark against you, it counts as evidence of poor character or performance.
The term appears frequently in contexts involving employment, school discipline, or any situation where one's conduct is being evaluated.
That incident will be a black mark on his record for years.
- blemishesVisible surface flaws
- demeritPunitive mark recorded
- blotMark left by spillage
- stigmaMark of dishonor
- tarnishOxidation discoloration on metal
bad reputation · smear · infamy · infraction · taint · disgrace · reproach · reprimand · strike · smudge · fault · defamation · discredit · write-up · negative review · shame · curse · penalty
- tire markstread patterns
black marksgold stars
Small shiny achievement awards
commendations · merits · accolades · honors · credits
black marksbadges of honor
Symbols recognizing achievement
clean record · spotless record · feathers in one's cap · claims to fame · good standing
black, mark, blacks, blacked, blacking, blacken, blackened, blackening, blackness