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Meaning & use

marked

adjective·Academic

Last updated

UK/mɑːkt/
US/mɑːrkt/

Meanings

  1. adjectivebefore a nounformal

    Easy to notice because it is so clear or strong.

    Grammar: Usually comes before a noun: a marked change.

    Patterns

    • marked improvement
    • marked difference

    There was a marked improvement in her grades.

    The two reports show a marked difference in tone.

    He walked with a marked limp after the fall.

  2. adjectivecomparable

    Having a visible sign, line or label on it.

    Grammar: Often used with a noun to show where something is: a marked path.

    Patterns

    • clearly marked
    • marked with something

    Follow the clearly marked trail to the lake.

    The marked box in the form must be signed.

    A marked map showed where the treasure was buried.

  3. adjectivebefore a nounfigurative

    Chosen as a target for harm or attention, as in a marked man.

    Grammar: Fixed in phrases like a marked man.

    Patterns

    • a marked man
    • a marked woman

    After he spoke out, he was a marked man.

    The informer knew he was marked for revenge.

    The marked player was watched closely all game.

Word forms

comparativemore marked
superlativemost marked

Common combinations

marked improvement
The patient showed a marked improvement.
marked contrast
Her calm voice was in marked contrast to his shouting.
marked increase
There was a marked increase in rainfall.
clearly marked
The exits are clearly marked.
marked decline
The town suffered a marked decline in tourism.

Synonyms and how they differ

noticeable
Noticeable is an everyday word for easy to see, while marked sounds more formal and stronger.
pronounced
Pronounced is close in meaning but is usually used for physical features or accents.
striking
Striking suggests something that catches the eye with force or beauty, not just a clear difference.

Opposites

slightimperceptible

Word family

markedly adverb
in a clearly noticeable way
mark noun
a visible sign, or a score given
mark verb
to make a sign on something or to grade it
unmarked adjective
without a sign or label

Commonly confused: marked or remarkable?

marked vs remarkable

Remarkable means worth talking about because it is unusual, while marked means clearly noticeable.

Practice

Which sentence uses marked to mean clearly noticeable?

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