Differences between mark down and mark up
Mark down usually means to reduce the price of something, whereas mark up generally means to increase the price of something.
Meanings and Definitions: mark down vs mark up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Mark down
- 1Give a student a lower grade for a particular reason.
Students who gave obviously rehearsed answers were MARKED DOWN, while those who spoke naturally were rewarded accordingly.
- 2Reduce the price of something.
I'll buy a lot more if you MARK them DOWN a bit.
Mark up
- 1Increase the price of something.
They MARK the goods UP by 25 % before they sell them.
Usage Examples: mark down, mark up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
mark down
Example
The store decided to mark down the prices of their winter clothes.
Example
She marks down the prices of the items on sale.
mark up
Example
The store owner decided to mark up the prices of the products.
Example
She marks up the items in her store to make a profit.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Mark down
To reduce the price of something by a certain percentage or amount.
Example
The store discounted all winter clothing by 50% to make room for new spring arrivals.
slash prices
To significantly reduce the price of something.
Example
The supermarket slashed prices on fresh produce to encourage healthy eating habits among customers.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Mark up
inflate prices
To increase the price of something beyond its actual value or cost.
Example
Some retailers inflate prices during peak seasons to take advantage of high demand and limited supply.
To charge more than what is reasonable or fair for a product or service.
Example
The repair shop overcharged me for a simple fix, so I took my car elsewhere for future repairs.
hike up
To raise the price of something suddenly and significantly.
Example
The airline hiked up ticket prices for the holiday season, making it difficult for many travelers to afford flights.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “mark”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in mark down vs mark up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: mark down or mark up?
In daily conversation, people use mark down and mark up less often than other phrasal verbs. However, they are commonly used in retail and business contexts. Mark down is more common than mark up because it's used when there's a sale or discount. Mark up is used less frequently because it's not always necessary to mention a price increase.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of mark down and mark up
Mark down and mark up are informal phrases often used in business or retail settings. They are suitable for everyday interactions with colleagues and customers. In more formal settings like academic or legal contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of mark down and mark up
The tone of mark down and mark up can differ based on context. Mark down often carries a positive or promotional tone when related to sales or discounts, while mark up typically has a negative or critical tone, especially when referring to overpriced items or unfair pricing practices.
