What does “Make or mar.” mean?

"Make or mar" means that success or failure is determined by one's own efforts and actions.

What context can I use the in?

Example

You have the power to make or mar your own future. Your success or failure depends on your own efforts.

Example

Don't rely on luck or external factors. It's up to you to make or mar your own destiny.

Example

Remember, it's not about what others do, it's about what you do. You have the ability to make or mar your own path in life

Is “Make or mar.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Make or mar.” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Make or mar.” effectively in context?

You can use "Make or mar" to emphasize that success or failure is determined by one's own efforts and actions. It highlights the importance of taking responsibility for one's choices and decisions. For example, if a friend is hesitant to take on a challenging project at work, you might say, 'Remember, it's up to you to make or mar your own career.'

1Personal Development
To achieve her goals, she knew she had to make or mar her own destiny and take control of her life.
2Education
The outcome of the exam will make or mar his chances of getting into his dream university.
3Entrepreneurship
In the competitive business world, the decisions you make can make or mar the success of your venture.

Similar phrases to “Make or mar.”:

Sink or swim

To either succeed or fail completely, without any middle ground

Example

In this competitive industry, it's a sink or swim situation. You have to prove yourself or risk being left behind.

Break or make

To either cause something to fail or succeed

Example

The success of the event will break or make the reputation of the organization.

Shape one's own destiny

To have control over one's future through one's own actions

Example

She believes in her ability to shape her own destiny and create the life she desires.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Make or mar.” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Make or mar" is unknown.

Is “Make or mar.” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Make or mar" is not as common in everyday conversation compared to other well-known proverbs. However, it can still be used effectively to convey the idea of personal responsibility and the impact of one's actions on success or failure.

What tone does “Make or mar.” have?

"Make or mar" conveys a tone of empowerment and accountability. It encourages individuals to recognize their own agency in shaping their future and emphasizes the importance of making wise choices and taking decisive actions.

Can “Make or mar.” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Make or mar" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It carries a meaningful message about personal responsibility and determination, which can be relevant in various contexts. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, speeches, or written essays.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Your decisions will "make or mar" your chances of success.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'It's all up to you, it's "make or mar"!' to imply the importance of personal effort and action.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

determine one's fate
control one's own destiny
hold the key to success
be the architect of one's own future
have the power to make or break

Antonyms

depend on luck
leave it to chance
relinquish control
be at the mercy of others
have no say in the matter