Redeeming attribute

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Redeeming attribute" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a positive quality or characteristic that makes something or someone more acceptable or favorable despite other flaws. Example: "Despite his many shortcomings, his kindness is a redeeming attribute that endears him to others."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But it misses out on this dubious honor by having one tiny redeeming attribute: it answers the question "Whatever happened to Edgar Stiles Edgarar was a much-beloved character on the television show "24" but was killed off last season.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Journalism is not a particularly esteemed profession, but its capacity to bear witness remains one of its more redeeming attributes.

The New Yorker

By Steve Coll January 14 , 2010Journalism is not a particularly esteemed profession, but its capacity to bear witness remains one of its more redeeming attributes.

The New Yorker

Disappointment,… Journalism is not a particularly esteemed profession, but its capacity to bear witness remains one of its more redeeming attributes.

The New Yorker

That seemed to be enough for Clare, because duh, he's THE BACHELOR and she WILL find his redeeming attributes, damn it!

Los Angeles Times

Redeeming value?

The New York Times

Redeeming features?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Redeeming paper I Bonds.

Forbes

Redeeming electronic I Bonds.

Forbes

Redeeming truth.

Huffington Post

Redeeming the lost.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "redeeming attribute" when you want to emphasize a positive quality that compensates for significant flaws or shortcomings. This highlights the importance of that single positive aspect.

Common error

Avoid using "redeeming attribute" when describing something that is already largely positive. The phrase is most effective when highlighting a significant positive aspect that counteracts notable negatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "redeeming attribute" functions as a descriptive element, typically an adjective modifying a noun. As Ludwig AI indicates, it signifies a positive trait that compensates for negative qualities. The few examples that Ludwig provides suggest that it is used to identify a specific positive quality that stands out against a backdrop of less desirable characteristics.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "redeeming attribute" is a phrase used to describe a positive quality that compensates for flaws. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. While grammatically sound, it is relatively rare, primarily appearing in News & Media contexts. When using this phrase, it is crucial to ensure that you're highlighting a significant positive aspect that counteracts notable negatives. Alternatives include "positive characteristic" and "valuable asset". Overall, the phrase serves to balance negative perceptions by emphasizing a key positive quality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Positive characteristic

Focuses on the positive aspect without necessarily implying it compensates for a negative one.

Valuable asset

Highlights the usefulness and worth of the quality.

Compensating factor

Directly addresses the idea of offsetting a negative aspect.

Mitigating quality

Emphasizes the ability to lessen the impact of something negative.

Offsetting feature

Similar to 'compensating factor' but focuses on a specific feature.

Counterbalancing trait

Suggests a balance between positive and negative aspects.

Positive aspect

A general term for a good quality.

Strength

Highlights a beneficial quality or capability.

Advantage

Focuses on the benefit provided by the quality.

Saving grace

Implies that without this quality, the situation would be much worse.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "redeeming attribute" in a sentence?

The phrase "redeeming attribute" is used to describe a positive quality that compensates for flaws. For example: "Despite his many shortcomings, his kindness is a "redeeming attribute" that endears him to others."

What are some alternatives to "redeeming attribute"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "positive characteristic", "valuable asset", or "compensating factor" as alternatives to "redeeming attribute".

When is it appropriate to use "redeeming attribute"?

Use "redeeming attribute" when you want to highlight a specific positive aspect that helps to excuse or counterbalance negative qualities or faults.

What is the difference between "redeeming attribute" and "positive quality"?

"Redeeming attribute" specifically implies that the positive quality compensates for or outweighs negative aspects, while "positive quality" is a more general term for any good characteristic.