a defining attribute of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a defining attribute of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a characteristic or quality that is essential to the identity or nature of something. Example: "Honesty is a defining attribute of a good leader."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Here we find yet again a defining attribute of the Obama legacy: the transformation of what was until recently a symbol of right-wing radicalism - warrantless eavesdropping - into meekly accepted bipartisan consensus.

The Guardian - Opinion

This has been a defining attribute of the New Amsterdam Singers, a skilled 70-voice choir, which ended its 45th season with a concert on Thursday night at St. Ignatius of Antioch Episcopal Church on the Upper West Side, conducted by its music director, Clara Longstreth.

The New York Times - Arts

A closer look shows that "72704001|Fracture (morphologic abnormality)|" is a defining attribute of "125605004|Fracture of bone (disorder)|" and is linked using the concept model attribute "116676008|Associated morphology (attribute)|".

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

Overall, however, the tandem arrangement of canonical 25-residue units is a hallmark of most ORFs displaying the motif, hence is a defining attribute of this set of repeat proteins.

BMC Genomics

Although traditional foods are the primary source of exposure to POPs, harvest and consumption of these foods is a defining attribute of the SLI Yupik way of life a necessary part of maintaining cultural identity.

Environmental Health Perspectives

The Guardian's Glenn Greenwald has noted what he sees as "a defining attribute of the Obama legacy: the transformation of what was until recently a symbol of rightwing radicalism – warrantless eavesdropping – into meekly accepted bipartisan consensus".

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

In addition to smaller wheel size and a step-through frame, the third defining attribute of a scooter is an automatic transmission.

The New York Times

(Perhaps some difference between the attribute "being a horse" and the attribute "being either a horse or a kitten" explains why the former is the defining attribute of a kind and the latter is not.

SEP

If one works towards programs whose "thinking" is constitutionally incapable of violating predetermined constraints, one is trying to engineer away the defining attribute of an intelligent being, of a person: namely creativity.

The Guardian

The inexorable reality is that no matter how opaque choices are, the defining attribute of a leader is his or her ability or obligation to choose.

Huffington Post

Another defining attribute of an object's orbit around the Sun is its inclination, which is the angle that it makes with the plane of Earth's orbit the ecliptic plane.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a defining attribute of" to precisely identify characteristics that are crucial for understanding the essence or nature of a subject. This phrase adds clarity and emphasis in academic, scientific, and formal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a defining attribute of" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "key feature" or "main quality" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a defining attribute of" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to introduce or describe a key characteristic or feature that is essential to the identity or nature of something. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a defining attribute of" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that serves to identify essential characteristics. Ludwig confirms its validity and usability. It is most frequently found in scientific, news, and encyclopedia sources, indicating a formal and analytical register. When writing, it is best used to provide clarity and emphasis in contexts where precision is valued. While "a defining attribute of" effectively conveys importance, it's crucial to consider the appropriateness of using more casual, simple language in less formal instances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a key characteristic of

Replaces "attribute" with "characteristic", emphasizing a prominent feature.

an essential quality of

Substitutes "attribute" with "quality", highlighting a necessary trait.

a primary feature of

Uses "feature" instead of "attribute", focusing on a notable aspect.

a hallmark of

Emphasizes a distinctive and recognizable trait.

a distinguishing characteristic of

Highlights the attribute's role in setting something apart.

a fundamental aspect of

Focuses on the attribute's role as a basic and essential part.

a central element of

Replaces "attribute" with "element", underscoring a core component.

a core property of

Substitutes "attribute" with "property", indicating an inherent quality.

an intrinsic quality of

Highlights that the attribute is inherent and essential.

a typical trait of

Focuses on an attribute that is commonly observed.

FAQs

How can I use "a defining attribute of" in a sentence?

Use "a defining attribute of" to introduce a quality that is essential to the identity or nature of something. For example: "Adaptability is "a defining attribute of" successful entrepreneurs."

What are some alternatives to "a defining attribute of"?

You can use alternatives like "a key characteristic of", "an essential quality of", or "a primary feature of" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "defining attribute" or "key attribute"?

"Defining attribute" emphasizes that the attribute is essential to the identity of something, while "key attribute" simply means it's important. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Can "a defining attribute of" be used for abstract concepts?

Yes, "a defining attribute of" can be used for abstract concepts such as justice, love, or freedom. For example: "Fairness is "a defining attribute of" justice."