Use it when something meets or fails to meet a known standard or expectation. His essay was well-researched but not up to the mark set by the competition.
Pro Tip 2/3
Quality Assessment
Often used to critique qualitative aspects like quality, performance, or ability. The hotel service has to be up to the mark to earn a five-star rating.
Pro Tip 3/3
Comparison Implied
Suggests a comparison with a standard, though the exact standard isn't always specified. The sequel wasn't up to the mark compared to the original movie.