Redeeming feature

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Redeeming feature" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a positive aspect of something that is otherwise considered negative or flawed. Example: "Despite the movie's poor plot, its stunning visuals were a redeeming feature that made it worth watching."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The "great redeeming feature of poverty," George Orwell wrote after his excursions in the social gutters of Paris and London, is "the fact that it annihilates the future".

The Economist

Laura's beauty was his redeeming feature.

The New Yorker

Maybe that's Less Than Zero's redeeming feature.

The Guardian - Books

Malte Rosenfeld's nicely graded cinematography is a single redeeming feature.

The Guardian - Film

The only redeeming feature is Chris Menges's excellent photography.

The Guardian - Film

But John Self has one redeeming feature: he's funny.

The Guardian

He didn't like the dog, whose one redeeming feature was that he would sit on command.

The New Yorker

The only redeeming feature about the restaurant was the 50's memorabilia on the walls.

The New York Times - Travel

But the book has one redeeming feature: it proves how right Pascal was.

The Guardian - Books

Her real redeeming feature is her combination of peasant shrewdness and a genius for people.

The New Yorker

His sole redeeming feature was his tender speech opposing the execution of Admiral John Byng MP in 1757.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "redeeming feature", ensure it clearly counterbalances a negative aspect previously mentioned. This provides context and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "redeeming feature" when describing something already mostly positive. The phrase implies a contrast, so using it in a positive context weakens its meaning. Instead, use terms like "positive attribute" or "best aspect".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "redeeming feature" functions as a noun phrase, where "redeeming" modifies "feature". It identifies a particular positive aspect that compensates for negative qualities. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in assessing movies, books, and even personal traits.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Wiki

0.5%

Encyclopedias

0.3%

Reference

0.2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "redeeming feature" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a positive aspect that compensates for negative qualities. Ludwig's analysis indicates its frequent use in News & Media, with a neutral register suitable for broad audiences. Alternatives like "saving grace" or "positive attribute" can be used depending on the specific context. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is well-recognized and easily understood, making it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Saving grace

Highlights the aspect that prevents something from being a complete failure.

Bright spot

Implies a small area of positivity within a larger negative context.

Compensating quality

Emphasizes that the quality makes up for deficiencies in other areas.

Positive attribute

Focuses on the positive characteristic without necessarily implying a counterbalance to something negative.

Best aspect

Simply highlights the most favorable part of something.

Only good point

Indicates that this is the sole positive aspect among predominantly negative ones.

Valuable attribute

Highlights the worth or importance of the quality.

Sole advantage

Suggests a single benefit in a situation otherwise lacking positive elements.

Chief virtue

Suggests that this is the primary positive characteristic.

Meritorious quality

Stresses that the quality is worthy of praise and recognition.

FAQs

How can I use "redeeming feature" in a sentence?

Use "redeeming feature" to highlight a positive aspect that compensates for negative qualities. For instance, "The film's plot was weak, but its stunning visuals were the "redeeming feature"."

What are some alternatives to "redeeming feature"?

Alternatives include "saving grace", "positive attribute", or "bright spot", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "redeeming feature" when describing a person's character?

Yes, it can be used to describe a positive quality that offsets negative traits. For example, "His "redeeming feature" was his unwavering loyalty, despite his occasional rudeness."

What's the difference between "redeeming feature" and "positive quality"?

"Redeeming feature" implies that the positive quality is compensating for something negative, while "positive quality" simply refers to a good attribute without necessarily suggesting a counterbalance.