a characteristic feature

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a characteristic feature" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a distinctive quality or trait that is typical of a person, object, or concept. Example: "The bright colors and intricate patterns are a characteristic feature of traditional Mexican art."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Waiting has always been a characteristic feature of human life.

The Guardian - Opinion

Religious-philosophical diversity was a characteristic feature of Dutch schools.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Cognitive decline is a characteristic feature of normal human aging.

Brain Research

These data suggest that CD4+ iTSCM cells may have a characteristic feature related to stem cells.

Nature

These observations suggest that donut-shaped mitochondria might be a characteristic feature of quiescent GSLCs.

Nature

Opolskie is mostly flat; wide river valleys are a characteristic feature.

Britannica

All tortuous microvessels longer than 3 mm, a characteristic feature of angiogenesis, were counted as neovessels.

Nature

A characteristic feature of chaotic dynamical systems is the property of pathological sensitivity to initial positions.

Britannica

Gardner, T. The Old English kenning: a characteristic feature of Germanic poetical diction?

Nature

A strong bias towards integration along transcription units is a characteristic feature of lentiviruses.

Harvard University

A characteristic feature of the calmanac is the articles it carries on the reverse.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a characteristic feature", ensure it clearly identifies a distinct and recognizable quality of the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "a characteristic feature" in overly redundant phrases. For instance, stating "a key characteristic feature" is repetitive; instead, choose either "key characteristic" or "characteristic feature" for conciseness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a characteristic feature" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an appositive. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in identifying notable attributes across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

58%

Encyclopedias

23%

News & Media

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a characteristic feature" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a notable attribute. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability across various fields, including science, encyclopedias, and news media. While alternatives like "a defining attribute" or "a typical trait" exist, "a characteristic feature" provides a clear and professional way to highlight distinct qualities. Ensure clarity and avoid redundancy in your writing by using this phrase judiciously.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a defining attribute

Focuses on the attribute as being essential or definitive.

a defining characteristic

Highlights that the characteristic is crucial for identification.

a typical trait

Highlights the trait's common occurrence or representativeness.

a hallmark

Emphasizes the feature as a distinguishing mark or sign.

a distinguishing characteristic

Stresses the feature's role in setting something apart.

a notable aspect

Indicates the feature's prominence or significance.

a prominent attribute

Highlights the attribute's conspicuousness or importance.

a key aspect

Focuses on the aspect's importance or centrality.

a common attribute

Underscores the attribute's frequent occurrence.

an essential element

Highlights the feature as a necessary component.

FAQs

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

Use "a characteristic feature" to describe a notable or typical attribute of something. For example, "The high arches are "a characteristic feature" of Gothic architecture."

What are some alternatives to "a characteristic feature"?

You can use alternatives like "a defining attribute", "a typical trait", or "a hallmark" depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "key characteristic feature"?

Yes, saying "key characteristic feature" is often redundant. It's better to use either "key characteristic" or ""a characteristic feature"" for clarity.

What's the difference between ""a characteristic feature"" and "a defining feature"?

"A characteristic feature" refers to a typical or noticeable attribute, while "a defining feature" refers to an attribute that is essential to the identity or nature of something.