a central feature of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a central feature of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an important or key aspect of something, often in discussions or analyses. Example: "The ability to adapt to change is a central feature of successful organizations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Facial mimicry is a central feature of human social interactions.

Nature

Inflammation is a central feature of many respiratory diseases.

Cellular Signalling

Disturbed sleep is a central feature of depression.

Encyclopedia of Sleep

A central feature of the new partnership is ensuring democracy, human rights and good governance.

The New York Times

In ancient Rome, dice-playing was a central feature of Saturnalia.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The prison economy is a central feature of New York's political economy.

The New York Times

But they also reflect a central feature of the Ken Burns aesthetic.

The New York Times - Arts

Combat metaphors have become a central feature of rat conversation among pest control professionals.

The Guardian

Dialogues between Chinese and "Western" writers are a central feature of the magazine.

The New York Times

Since then, standardized tests like the SAT have become a central feature of American academic life.

The New York Times

It concerns a central feature of evolution, one with considerable bearing on human social behaviors.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a central feature of", ensure that the feature you are describing is indeed a key aspect and not a secondary or minor detail. Provide context to demonstrate its importance.

Common error

Avoid using "a central feature of" when describing something that is merely typical or common. The phrase should be reserved for aspects that are genuinely critical or defining.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a central feature of" functions as a linking phrase to introduce and emphasize a particularly important or defining aspect of a subject. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase effectively highlights key elements across a range of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

32%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a central feature of" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize a key or defining aspect of a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including science, news media, and academia. To improve your writing, ensure the feature you highlight is indeed critical and avoid overstating its importance. Consider using alternatives such as "a key component of" or "a primary aspect of" for variety. By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively use "a central feature of" to enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a key component of

Emphasizes the essential role of a specific element within a larger system.

a primary aspect of

Focuses on the most important facet or characteristic of something.

a core element of

Highlights the fundamental and indispensable part of something.

a fundamental characteristic of

Stresses a basic and essential quality that defines something.

a significant element of

Indicates that the aspect is important and noteworthy.

a defining trait of

Points out a characteristic that distinctly identifies something.

an integral part of

Indicates the feature is necessary for completeness.

a crucial aspect of

Highlights an aspect that is critical and essential for success or understanding.

a notable attribute of

Emphasizes a characteristic that is worthy of attention.

a distinctive quality of

Stresses a characteristic that sets something apart from others.

FAQs

How can I use "a central feature of" in a sentence?

Use "a central feature of" to highlight a key aspect or characteristic. For example, "Adaptability is "a central feature of" successful businesses".

What are some alternatives to "a central feature of"?

You can use alternatives like "a key component of", "a primary aspect of", or "a core element of" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a central feature for" or "a central feature of"?

"A central feature of" is the correct and idiomatic phrasing. "A central feature for" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "a main feature of" and "a central feature of"?

While similar, "a central feature of" often implies something more fundamental or essential than "a main feature of", suggesting it's integral to the core identity or function.