leave mark on

leave (one's or its) mark on (someone or something)

To have a lasting effect on someone or something. Casey's experience in theater really left its mark on her—she's much less shy these days. Mark's aggressive leadership style has really left its mark on the company.See also: leave, mark, on

leave one's mark on someone

Fig. [for someone like a teacher] to affect the behavior and performance of another person. The wise professor left her mark on her students. My father left his mark on me, and I will always remember all his good advice.See also: leave, mark, on