"Have earmarks of" is an idiomatic expression used to describe something or someone as having certain qualities or characteristics that suggest a particular outcome, attribution, or resemblance. The phrase often implies that there are visible or distinctive features present that make it likely or plausible to associate the subject with something or someone else.
When something or someone is said to "have earmarks of," it means that they possess distinct qualities, signs, or attributes that typically align with a specific category, group, or pattern. These earmarks can be seen as indicators or traits that serve as clues or evidence, suggesting a resemblance or association with a particular identification or conclusion.
For example, if a person's behavior "has earmarks of" dishonesty, it means that their actions, speech, or demeanor exhibit traits commonly associated with dishonest individuals. Similarly, when a scientific experiment "has earmarks of" success, it indicates that the experiment shows signs or characteristics that usually lead to successful outcomes.
The term "have earmarks of" is often used in situations where there is not definite proof or confirmation, but rather an observation or indication that something has features typical to a particular concept or situation. It serves as a way to express the likelihood or possibility of an association, similarity, or outcome based on visible or identifiable characteristics.
