a definite quality

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a definite quality" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a specific and clear characteristic or attribute of something. Example: "The painting has a definite quality that draws the viewer's attention immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Virtue is often the foundation of society not just because of cohesion value, but because it gives a definite quality of life.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

There's also a slight but definite quality of menace to Galifianakis's onstage persona — obvious when he's throwing one of his famously over-the-top tantrums, but present even in his most lilting piano interludes — that keeps his audience in a constant but almost intangible state of tension.

The New York Times - Magazine

There is an unquantifiable but definite quality to it – often labelled as having been "made with love".

Independent

But there was something -- a definite "it" quality that spiked directly into the world's romantic fantasy jugular.

Huffington Post

When I finally got around to seeing the movie later, I thought, wow, kind of cornpone, and... ..She's like the wind?" But there was something -- a definite "it" quality that spiked directly into the world's romantic fantasy jugular.

Huffington Post

It makes you a little mysterious too, which is a definite ladylike quality!

WikiHow

The sense of right and wrong, according to this view is no definite quality, but merely the result of the working together of a series of accidents controlled by natural selection for the general good.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

The Edinburgh Review did not respond favorably: The sense of right and wrong, according to this view is no definite quality, but merely the result of the working together of a series of accidents controlled by natural selection for the general good.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

They have dealt with young players who have definite quality and in the future I think they can do something.

The Guardian - Sport

Mixture takes place when such qualities take on a definite quantity (poson) or due measure (metrion) that that delimits their variation.

SEP

But for these writers it is a definite, if painful, quality – something you are, not something that stops you being who you are.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a definite quality" when you want to emphasize that a particular characteristic is easily noticeable, clearly defined, or distinctly present. This phrase adds clarity and precision to your description.

Common error

While "a definite quality" is generally correct, avoid overuse in overly casual or informal writing. In such contexts, simpler terms like "clear" or "obvious" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a definite quality" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It typically describes a characteristic or attribute that is clearly present and easily identifiable. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a definite quality" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase to describe a clear and easily identifiable characteristic. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it’s suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and professional writing, although it can be replaced by simpler alternatives in informal settings. The phrase serves to emphasize a particular attribute, making it stand out distinctly. Common alternatives include "a distinct attribute" and "a clear characteristic". While the phrase is appropriate, overusing it, especially in casual contexts, should be avoided for stylistic reasons.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a distinct attribute

Changes the noun from 'quality' to 'attribute', implying a characteristic.

a clear characteristic

Replaces 'definite' with 'clear', emphasizing clarity and visibility of the characteristic.

a marked feature

Uses 'marked' instead of 'definite', suggesting a noticeable or prominent feature.

a specific trait

Substitutes 'quality' with 'trait', highlighting a distinguishing characteristic.

a well-defined aspect

Emphasizes clarity and precision in the aspect being described.

an obvious element

Focuses on the readily apparent nature of the element.

a notable property

Replaces 'quality' with 'property', indicating an inherent characteristic.

a tangible attribute

Highlights the perceivable or concrete nature of the attribute.

a concrete feature

Stresses the real and substantial aspect of the feature.

a palpable characteristic

Emphasizes the easily sensed or felt nature of the characteristic.

FAQs

How can I use "a definite quality" in a sentence?

You can use "a definite quality" to describe a distinct characteristic. For example, "The music has "a definite quality" that makes it stand out."

What are some alternatives to "a definite quality"?

Alternatives include "a distinct attribute", "a clear characteristic", or "a marked feature", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "a definite quality" or "a distinct quality"?

Both "a definite quality" and "a distinct quality" are correct, but they emphasize slightly different aspects. "Definite" stresses clarity and certainty, while "distinct" emphasizes uniqueness and separateness.

In what contexts is "a definite quality" most suitable?

"A definite quality" is suitable in various contexts, including describing art, personal characteristics, or product features where a clear and noticeable attribute is being highlighted. For instance, “The movie has "a definite quality" of suspense” or “Her leadership style shows "a definite quality" of empathy.”