a defining characteristic

USAGE SUMMARY

"a defining characteristic" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe a trait that makes something unique. For example, you could say: "The strong work ethic of his team was a defining characteristic of his business success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's not a defining characteristic – it's more normal," he said.

The Guardian

Auto-mania is a defining characteristic of the country.

The New York Times - Travel

Sex was seen as a defining characteristic of delinquent behaviour.

The Guardian - Books

Police accountability is a defining characteristic of a democracy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Historical consciousness is a defining characteristic of Confucian thought.

Encyclopedia Britannica

One might also ask whether, in the old days, color was always a defining characteristic.

The New Yorker

An obsession with bishops is a defining characteristic of Anglicanism, both ancient and modern.

The Guardian - Opinion

That's a defining characteristic of the tax-avoidance culture we're getting a glimpse of.

The Guardian - Opinion

And Conservatives are making transparency a defining characteristic of our future public policy.

The Guardian

Stein's habitual attempt to be bright is a defining characteristic of her life and her art.

The New Yorker

A defining characteristic of video games has long been their high couch-potato quotient.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a defining characteristic", consider the broader context to ensure the chosen trait is indeed the most salient and representative aspect of the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "a defining characteristic" for traits that are common or widespread. Ensure the characteristic truly distinguishes the subject from others.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a defining characteristic" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an appositive. It identifies and emphasizes a specific trait or attribute that is essential to the nature or identity of something. Ludwig AI affirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a defining characteristic" is a widely used and grammatically correct phrase that serves to highlight a unique or essential attribute of a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase functions as a noun phrase and is commonly found in neutral to formal contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. When using this phrase, ensure that the identified characteristic is indeed distinguishing and not merely typical. Alternatives include "a key attribute" or "a crucial element", depending on the desired nuance. Ludwig's examples showcase its versatile application across diverse topics, emphasizing its value in precise and informative writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a distinguishing attribute

Highlights the ability to set something apart.

a key attribute

Focuses on importance rather than definition.

an essential quality

Stresses the necessity and importance of the quality.

a crucial element

Highlights the essential nature of the element.

a fundamental aspect

Emphasizes the foundational quality of the aspect.

a core feature

Indicates a central and intrinsic element.

a primary feature

Focuses on the main and noticeable aspect.

a hallmark trait

Suggests a distinguishing and recognizable quality.

a signature element

Implies a unique and recognizable component.

an identifying marker

Highlights the role in recognizing or identifying something.

FAQs

How do I use "a defining characteristic" in a sentence?

Use "a defining characteristic" to highlight a key attribute that makes something unique. For example, "Innovation is "a defining characteristic" of their company culture."

What are some alternatives to "a defining characteristic"?

You can use phrases like "a key attribute", "a crucial element", or "a fundamental aspect" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

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

While both are acceptable, "defining characteristic" emphasizes that the trait sets the subject apart, whereas "key characteristic" simply means it's important. The choice depends on the intended emphasis.

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

"A defining characteristic" highlights a trait that makes something unique, whereas "a typical characteristic" describes a trait that is commonly found but not necessarily unique.