How is the Word “Mark” Used in English?

In English, the word “mark” is one of the most versatile and intriguing terms. Its usage spans a wide range of meanings, from simple marks on paper to complex assessments in the education system and the recognition of significant events. Grammatically, “mark” can function as both a verb and a noun, adapting to various situations. As a verb, it is used to denote actions such as “mark a date in the calendar”, “mark an assignment”, or “mark a milestone”. As a noun, “mark” can refer to a grade, a mark, a trace, or a level, adding depth and complexity to every expression in which it is used. Let’s explore some examples.

As a verb, “mark” has several key meanings:

• To indicate: “He marked the spot on the map.”
• To signify: “The event marked the beginning of a new era.”
• To grade: “The teacher marked the essays.”

As a noun, “mark” also carries various meanings:

• A mark or trace: “There was a mark on the wall.”
• A grade: “He received a high mark on his exam.”
• A level or limit: “The water reached the high mark.”

Grammatically, “mark” can be used in different tenses and contexts, both in the active and passive voice. For example:

• Active: “She marks the students’ work every week.”
• Passive: “The students’ work is marked by the teacher.”

The true power of the word “mark” is revealed in phrasal verbs. By adding a preposition or an adverb, you can create new meanings that differ significantly from the basic meaning of the word. For instance, “mark down” can mean to lower a price or grade, while “mark out” refers to distinguishing or outlining something. These phrasal verbs not only enrich the language but also open up new possibilities for precise expression of thoughts and ideas.

In this article, we will explore the most common phrasal verbs with “mark”, their meanings, and examples of use to help you master this important aspect of English and make your speech more expressive and confident.

Phrasal Verbs with “Mark”

Mark down – to write down, lower a price, or reduce a grade

Mark down has several meanings:

• To write down information or notes:
  Please mark down the key points from the meeting.
• To lower the price of an item:
  The store decided to mark down all summer clothes by 50%.
• To lower a student’s grade for a particular reason:
  The teacher marked down the student for not following the instructions.

Mark up – to increase a price, make annotations

Mark up means to increase the price of a product or item:

• The company decided to mark up the prices due to increased demand.

It can also mean to make annotations or corrections on a document:

• The editor marked up the manuscript with his suggestions.

Mark out – to mark or outline, to stand out

Mark out is used when marking or outlining something:

• The architect marked out the area for the new building.

It can also mean to distinguish someone or something:

• His talent marked him out from the rest of the students.

Mark off – to check off, to demarcate

Mark off means to check something as completed or to demarcate:

• I have marked off the tasks that I’ve already completed.
• They marked off the construction site with tape.

Mark down as – to categorize or consider as a certain type

This phrasal verb is used when assigning someone or something to a specific category or type:

• He was marked down as a potential candidate for the position.

Mark out for – to show promise for the future

Mark out for is used when someone shows potential or promise for future success:

• She was marked out for a successful career in medicine.

Mark out from – to stand out because of certain qualities

Mark out from is used when someone stands out due to specific qualities:

• His dedication to work marked him out from the rest of the team.

Mark up as – to label or classify as

Mark up as is often used in the context of labeling or classifying something:

• The document was marked up as confidential.

Phrasal verbs with “mark” are essential for understanding and effectively using the English language. They help in precisely expressing thoughts and add flexibility to your communication. Learning and using these phrasal verbs will make your English more confident and diverse.