blemish
B2Neutral to formal. More common in written or descriptive contexts.
Definition
Meaning
A mark, flaw, or defect that spoils the appearance, quality, or character of something or someone.
Often used figuratively to describe a stain on someone's reputation or record.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Conveys a sense of spoiling perfection or purity. It can apply to physical surfaces (skin, fruit, paint) or abstract qualities (reputation).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage.
Connotations
Slightly more formal or 'literary' in everyday conversation in both varieties.
Frequency
Comparatively similar frequency in both dialects.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
to blemish somethingto be blemished by somethinga blemish on [abstract noun] (e.g., reputation, record)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “a blemish on one's record/character”
- “without a blemish”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used metaphorically for a negative mark on a company's financial or ethical record.
Academic
Found in literary criticism or historical analysis to describe minor faults.
Everyday
Primarily used in contexts of skin care, appearance, or minor criticisms.
Technical
Used in dermatology, cosmetology, and quality control (e.g., manufacturing).
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The scandal blemished his career irreparably.
- One careless scratch can blemish the polished surface.
American English
- The accusations blemished the company's public image.
- Try not to blemish the fruit when picking it.
adjective
British English
- The blemished apples were sold at a discount.
- She sought treatment for her blemished skin.
American English
- The report revealed a blemished safety record.
- He returned the blemished product for a refund.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- She has a small blemish on her cheek.
- The apple had a brown blemish.
- The make-up is designed to cover any skin blemish.
- There was only one minor blemish in his school record.
- The otherwise perfect performance was marred by a single blemish in the finale.
- Any blemish on the company's ethical standing could damage investor confidence.
- The conviction remains a permanent blemish on his otherwise distinguished legal career.
- Critics pointed out the anachronism as a glaring blemish in the historical film's authenticity.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'BLEMISH' as 'BLEM' (sounds like 'blem' from 'blemished') + 'ISH' (suffix meaning 'having the quality of'). It's the 'blem-ish' quality of something spoiled.
Conceptual Metaphor
MORAL/ABSTRACT FLAWS ARE PHYSICAL STAINS OR MARKS.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Не путать с "блеск" (shine/gloss), это антоним.
- Ближе к словам "изъян", "дефект", "порок", а не просто "пятно".
Common Mistakes
- Using it as a countable noun only for large, major flaws (it's often for small ones).
- Confusing spelling: 'blemnish' (incorrect).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'blemish' LEAST likely to be used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it's very commonly used figuratively for reputations, records, or character.
A scar is usually the result of a healed wound and is permanent. A blemish is a broader term for any flaw or mark, often temporary or superficial (like a pimple).
Yes, though less common than the noun. It means 'to spoil the perfection of' something.
It's a very common and accepted collocation, especially in formal or journalistic writing.