What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mar
Example
The table was marred by a small scratch. [mar: verb]
Example
His reputation was marred by the scandal. [marred: past participle]
Example
The painting was beautiful, but it was marred by a small smudge. [marred: past participle]
damage
Example
The storm damaged the roof of the house. [damage: verb]
Example
The car was declared a total loss due to the extensive damage. [damage: noun]
Example
The flood caused significant damage to the crops. [damage: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Damage is a more commonly used word than mar in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and can refer to more severe harm or injury.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mar and damage?
Damage is a more formal word than mar, as it is often used in legal or technical contexts to describe harm or injury that requires compensation or repair.