The phrase "black mark" refers to something that negatively affects your reputation or record. It can be seen as a mark of disapproval or a stain on your reputation because of a mistake, failure, or wrongdoing. Full definition
In this gritty urban fantasy, debt collectors take your life energy and give it to someone more «worthy»... all while paying the price with black marks on their souls. (susankayequinn.com)
The only potential black mark against its music capabilities is the limited amount of storage space. (onemobilering.com)
Any kind of black marks such as missed payments, late payments or judgments will show up on a credit report. (stockmonkeys.com)