a black mark against someone

a black mark against (one)

A long-lasting negative impact of a mistake that harms one's reputation. 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
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

a black mark against someone

something that someone has done that is disliked or disapproved of by other people.
The literal meaning of the phrase is a black cross or spot marked against the name of a person who has done something wrong.
See also: black, mark, someone
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • a black mark against (one)
  • black mark
  • a black mark
  • a black spot
  • beside
  • a black mark beside (one's) name
  • black mark beside name
  • get a ticket
  • covenant of salt
  • bluff (one's) way out of (something)