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3. a black mark

a black mark

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a black mark

A long-lasting negative impact of a mistake. Jerry's speeding ticket was a black mark on his driving record that prevented him from getting a job as a delivery man.

See also: black, mark

a black mark

if you get a black mark, people think that something you have done is bad and they will remember it in future This administrative error will be a black mark on his record. (often + against ) If I'm late for work it'll be another black mark against me.

See also: black, mark