Mark for life Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To cause a strong emotional or psychological effect on someone that lasts for their entire life, usually because of a significant or traumatic experience.
Usage & Nuances
This is an idiom, usually used in passive structures ("be marked for life"). It often relates to trauma or deeply impactful events. Can apply to either positive or negative experiences, but negatives are more common. Not about physical marks, but emotional or psychological ones.
Example Sentences
That accident marked him for life.
basic
The war marked many people for life.
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Bullying can mark someone for life.
basic
Losing his parents so young really marked him for life.
natural
That teacher’s kindness marked me for life in the best way.
natural
After what happened, she was marked for life—she never trusted anyone again.
natural