Stain vs. Mark: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Published on November 11, 2023
A "stain" is a discoloration that’s hard to remove, while a "mark" is a noticeable impression or discoloration, not always permanent.
Key Differences
A "stain" typically implies a discoloration that is unintended and unwelcome, often hard to remove. Conversely, a "mark" encompasses a wider range of impressions, which may be intentional or unintentional, permanent or temporary.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2023
"Stain" generally denotes a negative context, highlighting an impurity or imperfection. "Mark", on the other hand, could have neutral, positive, or negative connotations, based on the context it is used in.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2023
The origin of a "stain" is mostly accidental, such as a spill. While a "mark" can be accidental or intentional, like markings to indicate measurements or accidental scratches.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2023
The permanence is often assumed with "stain," suggesting a longer-lasting impact. "Mark" does not implicitly carry this duration aspect, it might be temporary or permanent.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
In usage, "stain" is often associated with fabrics and surfaces, whereas "mark" can be used in varied contexts including physical, metaphorical, and abstract senses.
Harlon Moss
Nov 11, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Example Sentence
The wine left a stain on the carpet.
Mark the spot where you will drill.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Stain and Mark Definitions
Stain
A discoloration that is difficult to remove.
The red wine left a stain on the white shirt.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Mark
A visible impression or trace on something.
The chair left a mark on the wall.
Sara Rehman
Oct 10, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Stain
To bring into disrepute; taint or tarnish
The scandal stained the mayor's reputation.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A visible trace or impression, such as a line or spot
A spill that left a mark on the rug.
A mark next to each purchased item on the list.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
To change the color of (a piece of wood, for example) by applying a stain.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A name, logo, or other indicator used to indicate ownership, origin, or level of quality.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
To treat (a specimen for the microscope) with a reagent or dye in order to identify cell or tissue structures or microorganisms.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
A discolored or soiled spot or smudge
A stain that was difficult to scrub out.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
A diminishment of one's moral character or good reputation by being associated with something disgraceful.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A number, letter, or symbol used to indicate various grades of academic achievement
Got a mark of 95 instead of 100.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
A liquid substance applied especially to wood that penetrates the surface and imparts a rich color.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A knot or piece of material placed at various measured lengths on a sounding line to indicate the depth of the water.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A distinctive trait or property
Good manners are the mark of a civilized person.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
A reagent or dye used to stain microscope specimens so as to make some structures visible.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
(heraldry) Any of a number of non-standard tinctures used in modern heraldry.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A specific model, type, or iteration, as of a product or machine, especially when part of a series. Usually used with a number
The mark IV model of this car.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
(transitive) To discolour.
To stain the hand with dye
Armour stained with blood
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Importance; prominence
"a fellow of no mark nor likelihood" (Shakespeare).
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
To coat a surface with a stain
To stain wood with acids, coloured washes, paint rubbed in, etc.
The stained glass used for church windows
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A target
"A mounted officer would be a conspicuous mark" (Ambrose Bierce).
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
To treat (a microscopic specimen) with a dye, especially one that dyes specific features
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
To discolor by the application of foreign matter; to make foul; to spot; as, to stain the hand with dye; armor stained with blood.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(Sports) The place from which racers begin and sometimes end their contest.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
To color, as wood, glass, paper, cloth, or the like, by processes affecting, chemically or otherwise, the material itself; to tinge with a color or colors combining with, or penetrating, the substance; to dye; as, to stain wood with acids, colored washes, paint rubbed in, etc.; to stain glass.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
To spot with guilt or infamy; to bring reproach on; to blot; to soil; to tarnish.
Of honor void,Of innocence, of faith, of purity,Our wonted ornaments now soiled and stained.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
To cause to seem inferior or soiled by comparison.
She stains the ripest virgins of her age.
That did all other beasts in beauty stain.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
A discoloration by foreign matter; a spot; as, a stain on a garment or cloth.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
A natural spot of a color different from the gound.
Swift trouts, diversified with crimson stains.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A tract of land in medieval England and Germany held in common by a community.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
Taint of guilt; tarnish; disgrace; reproach.
Nor death itself can wholly wash their stains.
Our opinion . . . is, I trust, without any blemish or stain of heresy.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(Computers) A character or feature in a file, record, or data stream used to locate a specific point or condition.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
In Arthurian legend, a king of Cornwall who was the husband of Iseult and the uncle of her lover Tristan.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
An English and Scottish unit of currency that was equal to 13 shillings and 4 pence.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Any of several European units of weight that were equal to about 8 ounces (227 grams), used especially for weighing gold and silver.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
(microscopy) a dye or other coloring material that is used in microscopy to make structures visible
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To make a visible trace or impression on, as with a spot, line, or dent
Marked the wall with a crayon.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
An act that brings discredit to the person who does it;
He made a huge blot on his copybook
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
Color with a liquid dye or tint;
Stain this table a beautiful walnut color
People knew how to stain glass a beautiful blue in the middle ages
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To single out or indicate by or as if by a mark
Marked the spot where the treasure was buried.
A career marked for glory.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
Make dirty or spotty, as by exposure to air; also used metaphorically;
The silver was tarnished by the long exposure to the air
Her reputation was sullied after the affair with a married man
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To distinguish or characterize
The exuberance that marks her writings.
Marked the occasion with celebrations.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To set off or separate by or as if by a line or boundary
Marked off the limits of our property.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
A dye or tint used to color a material.
She used a dark stain for the wooden table.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 10, 2023
Mark
To attach or affix identification, such as a price tag or maker's label, to.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Stain
A sign of something morally harmful or detestable.
The stain of injustice lingered in the society.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Mark
To evaluate (academic work) according to a scale of letters or numbers; grade.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To give attention to; notice
Mark her expression of discontent. Mark my words.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To take note of in writing; write down
Marked the appointment on my calendar.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(historical) A common, or area of common land, especially among early Germanic peoples.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A characteristic feature.
A good sense of manners is the mark of a true gentleman.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A visible impression or sign; a blemish, scratch, or stain, whether accidental or intentional.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A written character or sign.
The font wasn't able to render all the diacritical marks properly.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A stamp or other indication of provenance, quality etc.
With eggs, you need to check for the quality mark before you buy.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A particular design or make of an item now usually with following numeral.
I am proud to present my patented travelator, mark two.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A score for finding the correct answer, or other academic achievement; the sum of such points gained as out of a possible total.
What mark did you get in your history test?
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
An indication or sign used for reference or measurement.
I filled the bottle up to the 500ml mark.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(Rugby football, Australian rules football) A catch of the ball directly from a kick of 10 metres or more without having been touched in transit, resulting in a free kick.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
An official note that is added to a record kept about someone's behavior or performance.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(cooking) A specified level on a scale denoting gas-powered oven temperatures.
Now put the pastry in at 450 degrees, or mark 8.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(product design/engineering) The model number of a device; a device model.
The Mark I system had poor radar, and the Mark II was too expensive; regardless, most antiaircraft direction remained the responsibility of the Mark I Eyeball (as the jocular phrase calls it): that is, the operator's eye.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Limit or standard of action or fact.
To be within the mark
To come up to the mark
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(archaic) Preeminence; high position.
Patricians of mark
A fellow of no mark
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(nautical) One of the bits of leather or coloured bunting placed upon a sounding line at intervals of from two to five fathoms. (The unmarked fathoms are called "deeps".)
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(archaic) Attention, notice.
His last comment is particularly worthy of mark.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A measure of weight (especially for gold and silver), once used throughout Europe, equivalent to 8 oz.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
An English and Scottish unit of currency (originally valued at one mark weight of silver), equivalent to 13 shillings and fourpence.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Any of various European monetary units, especially the base unit of currency of (West) Germany between 1948 and 2002, equal to 100 pfennigs.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To put a mark on (something); to make (something) recognizable by a mark; to label or write on (something).
To mark a box or bale of merchandise
To mark clothing with one's name
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To leave a mark (often an undesirable or unwanted one) on (something).
See where this pencil has marked the paper.
The floor was marked with wine and blood.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(figurative) To have a long-lasting negative impact on (someone or something).
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To create an indication of (a location).
She folded over the corner of the page to mark where she left off reading.
Some animals mark their territory by urinating.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To be an indication of (something); to show where (something) is located.
This monument marks the spot where Wolfe died.
A bell marked the end of visiting hours.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To indicate (something) in writing or by other symbols.
Prices are marked on individual items.
In her Bible, the words of Christ were marked in red.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To celebrate or acknowledge (an event) through an action of some kind.
The national holiday is marked by fireworks.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(of things) To identify (someone as a particular type of person or as having a particular role).
His courage and energy marked him as a leader.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(of people) To choose or intend (someone) for a particular end or purpose.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To be a point in time or space at which something takes place; to accompany or be accompanied by (an event, action, etc.); to coincide with.
The creek marks the boundary between the two farms.
That summer marked the beginning of her obsession with cycling.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To focus one's attention on (something or someone); to pay attention to, to take note of.
Mark my words: that boy’s up to no good.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To indicate the correctness of and give a score to (a school assignment, exam answers, etc.).
The teacher had to spend her weekend marking all the tests.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To record that (someone) has a particular status.
To mark a student absent.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To keep account of; to enumerate and register; to keep score.
To mark the points in a game of billiards or a card game
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(sports) To follow a player not in possession of the ball when defending, to prevent them receiving a pass easily.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(Australian rules football) To catch the ball directly from a kick of 15 metres or more without having been touched in transit, resulting in a free kick.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
(singing) To sing softly, sometimes an octave lower than usual, in order to protect one's voice during a rehearsal.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
The unit of monetary account of the German Empire, equal to 23.8 cents of United States money (1913); the equivalent of one hundred pfennigs. Also, a silver coin of this value. The unit was retained by subsequent German states up to the time of the Federal Republic of Germany. In 1995, the value was approximately 65 cents American. In 1999 it began to be superseded by the Euro as a unit of currency in Germany and throughout much of the European union.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A visible sign or impression made or left upon anything; esp., a line, point, stamp, figure, or the like, drawn or impressed, so as to attract the attention and convey some information or intimation; a token; a trace.
The Lord set a mark upon Cain, lest any finding him should kill him.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A character or device put on an article of merchandise by the maker to show by whom it was made; a trade-mark.
The mark of the artisan is found upon the most ancient fabrics that have come to light.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A fixed object serving for guidance, as of a ship, a traveler, a surveyor, etc.; as, a seamark, a landmark.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A trace, dot, line, imprint, or discoloration, although not regarded as a token or sign; a scratch, scar, stain, etc.; as, this pencil makes a fine mark.
I have some marks of yours upon my pate.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
An evidence of presence, agency, or influence; a significative token; a symptom; a trace; specifically, a permanent impression of one's activity or character.
The confusion of tongues was a mark of separation.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
That toward which a missile is directed; a thing aimed at; what one seeks to hit or reach.
France was a fairer mark to shoot at than Ireland.
Whate'er the motive, pleasure is the mark.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Limit or standard of action or fact; as, to be within the mark; to come up to the mark.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Badge or sign of honor, rank, or official station.
In the official marks invested, youAnon do meet the Senate.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Preëminence; high position; as, patricians of mark; a fellow of no mark.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A number or other character used in registering; as, examination marks; a mark for tardiness.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Image; likeness; hence, those formed in one's image; children; descendants.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
One of the bits of leather or colored bunting which are placed upon a sounding line at intervals of from two to five fathoms. The unmarked fathoms are called "deeps."
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To put a mark upon; to affix a significant mark to; to make recognizable by a mark; as, to mark a box or bale of merchandise; to mark clothing.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To be a mark upon; to designate; to indicate; - used literally and figuratively; as, this monument marks the spot where Wolfe died; his courage and energy marked him for a leader.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To leave a trace, scratch, scar, or other mark, upon, or any evidence of action; as, a pencil marks paper; his hobnails marked the floor.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To keep account of; to enumerate and register; as, to mark the points in a game of billiards or cards.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To notice or observe; to give attention to; to take note of; to remark; to heed; to regard; as, mark my words.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To take particular notice; to observe critically; to note; to remark.
Mark, I pray you, and see how this man seeketh mischief.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A number or letter indicating quality (especially of a student's performance);
She made good marks in algebra
Grade A milk
What was your score on your homework?
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A visible indication made on a surface;
Some previous reader had covered the pages with dozens of marks
Paw prints were everywhere
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
The impression created by doing something unusual or extraordinary that people notice and remember;
It was in London that he made his mark
He left an indelible mark on the American theater
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Apostle and companion of Saint Peter; assumed to be the author of the second Gospel
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A written or printed symbol (as for punctuation);
His answer was just a punctuation mark
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A perceptible indication of something not immediately apparent (as a visible clue that something has happened);
He showed signs of strain
They welcomed the signs of spring
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Something that exactly succeeds in achieving its goal;
The new advertising campaign was a bell ringer
Scored a bull's eye
Hit the mark
The president's speech was a home run
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Designate as if by a mark;
This sign marks the border
He indicated where the border ended
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Be a distinctive feature, attribute, or trait; sometimes in a very positive sense;
His modesty distinguishes him form his peers
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Mark by some ceremony or observation;
We marked the anniversary of his death
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
To accuse or condemn or openly or formally or brand as disgraceful;
He denounced the government action
She was stigmatized by society because she had a child out of wedlock
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Notice or perceive;
She noted that someone was following her
Mark my words
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Put a check mark on or next to;
Please check each name on the list
Tick off the items
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
Assign a grade or rank to, according to one's evaluation;
Grade tests
Score the SAT essays
Mark homework
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 08, 2023
Mark
A symbol, name, or other identifier.
His name left a mark in the industry.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 10, 2023
Mark
A score or grade in an exam or test.
She got high marks on her examination.
Sara Rehman
Oct 10, 2023
FAQs
Can "stain" refer to a moral or reputational blemish?
Yes, "stain" can metaphorically refer to a moral flaw or disgrace.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2023
Are all stains permanent?
No, some stains can be removed, though the term often suggests difficulty in removal.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
Is "stain" always used in a negative context?
Predominantly, yes. "Stain" often refers to unwanted discoloration.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2023
Can "mark" refer to a symbol or sign?
Absolutely, "mark" can refer to a symbol, indicator, or sign.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2023
Is it correct to say "leave a stain"?
Yes, it's a common phrase used to describe creating an unwanted discoloration.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2023
Is "mark" applicable in business terminology?
Yes, it can refer to a target or goal in a business context.
Harlon Moss
Nov 11, 2023
Is a "mark" always visible?
Not always. "Mark" can be used metaphorically to denote an impression or impact that is not physically visible.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
Can "mark" have a positive connotation?
Yes, "mark" can be neutral, negative, or positive depending on context.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
Can "mark" be used in a sporting context?
Yes, "mark" can refer to a target, goal, or a position in sports.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
Does "mark" always imply intentionality?
No, a "mark" can be created intentionally or accidentally.
Harlon Moss
Nov 11, 2023
Can "stain" be intentional?
While typically accidental, "stain" can be intentional, as in intentionally coloring wood with wood stain.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
Can "mark" refer to a notable occurrence?
Yes, it might denote an important moment or occurrence, e.g., "a mark in history".
Janet White
Nov 11, 2023
Can "mark" be used as a verb?
Yes, "mark" can be used as a verb, meaning to make a visible impression or notice something.
Harlon Moss
Nov 11, 2023
Is "stain" used in both literal and metaphorical senses?
Yes, "stain" can refer to both physical discoloration and metaphorical blemishes.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
Can you use "stain" to refer to tarnishing one’s reputation?
Yes, you can metaphorically refer to harming a reputation as staining it.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2023
Can "mark" refer to academic performance?
Yes, "mark" can refer to the score or grade obtained in an exam.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
Can "stain" be used as a verb?
Yes, "stain" can be used as a verb, meaning to accidentally or intentionally apply color.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2023
Can fabrics be stained by colors other than red wine or ink?
Absolutely, fabrics can be stained by numerous substances, including food, chemicals, etc.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2023
Does "stain" only refer to liquids?
No, "stain" can refer to discoloration from solids, liquids, or gases.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2023
Is it possible to "miss the mark"?
Yes, this phrase means to fail to achieve a goal or target.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 11, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
