Mark and marque are two commonly confused words that are pronounced in the same way but are spelled differently and have different meanings, which makes them homophones. We will examine the different meanings of the homophonic words mark and marque, the word origin of the terms, and some examples of their English usage in sentences.
A mark is a spot or blemish on the surface of something, a figure or line that denotes something on a map or document, a sign or symbol, an indication of information. Mark may refer to the grade a student earns in his course or on an assignment. Mark is also used as a verb to mean to make a sign, symbol, spot or blemish. Mark is also used in a slang manner to mean the intended victim of a criminal, particularly a swindler. The word mark is derived from the Old English word mearc, which means boundary or landmark.
Marque is primarily a British word that means the brand of a product, most especially the brand of a car, or the emblem of a product, most especially a car. Originally, the word marque was used in the term letter of marque, which was a license that allowed a citizen to seize merchant ships belonging to other nations. The word marque is probably derived from the Old French word marca, meaning reprisal.
Examples
He really left his mark and entire heart on the dance floor, and I think America saw that. (People Magazine)
But Pelosi announced that while Judiciary would mark up articles of impeachment, it would not conduct the hearings. (Washington Examiner)
Since its U.S. debut in 2011, it has been a fashion-forward beauty marque for the brand, more like a sporty coupe than a utility vehicle. (The San Diego Union-Tribune)
The German automobile marque, Volkswagen, which is a part of the sprawling Volkswagen Group, is one of the world’s largest automobile manufacturers. (Republic World)