What does remark mean?
A remark is a brief comment, observation, or statement, especially one that catches someone's attention or conveys an opinion. The word is used in both formal and informal English: a passing remark may be an incidental comment, while an opening remark introduces a speech or discussion. As a verb, remark means to make or express such an observation, often in the pattern “remark that” or “remark on.” Although remark does not necessarily imply that a statement is important, it often carries the implication that the comment is worth noticing or discussing. In older usage, it could also mean to notice or observe, but that sense is now uncommon in modern English. Its related forms, remarkable and remarkably, emphasize the unusual or noteworthy quality of something.
A brief comment, observation, or statement, especially one that is noteworthy or attracts attention.
"Her remark at the meeting prompted an immediate discussion."
A remark may be neutral or slightly formal; a passing remark is especially incidental and brief.
To make a comment or express an observation, especially in response to something noteworthy.
"Several reviewers remarked on the striking design of the building."
Remark is often used with “that” to introduce an observation or with “on” to identify its subject.
The plural is used for individual comments or observations.
"His remarks about the proposal were brief but influential."
The word remark began with the idea of marking something: a remark is, literally, a thought set down for others to notice.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does remark come from?
Remark entered English in the early 18th century from French remarque, a noun meaning an observation or comment. The French word came from remarquer, meaning to mark again or single out, formed from re-, meaning again, and marquer, to mark. English derivatives such as remarkable and unremarked developed from this same marking and noticing sense.
Related word forms
How remark is actually used
Remark is neutral and widely used in formal and informal contexts. In its noun use, it can suggest that a comment is interesting, noteworthy, or intended to attract attention; remark that is also relatively formal, though common in writing and speech.
Easily confused with remark
A comment can be any expression of opinion or explanation, while a remark often suggests a brief or noteworthy statement.
A remark is usually a single observation or statement, whereas commentary is a broader discussion or extended explanation.