a distinct trait

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinct trait" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific characteristic that sets someone or something apart from others. Example: "Her ability to empathize with others is a distinct trait that makes her an excellent counselor."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

A subset of colorectal tumors has an exceptionally high frequency of methylation of some CpG islands, leading to the suggestion of a distinct trait referred to as 'CpG island methylator phenotype', or 'CIMP'1,2.

Nature

While they do correlate with other personality traits such as the Big Five, the correlations are typically on the low side, which can be taken as evidence that justice sensitivity itself is a distinct trait (for a review, see Schmitt et al. 2010).

SEP

Currently, HeroMe lets kids choose from five different male heads along with five arms and five legs, each with a distinct trait.

Huffington Post

Therefore, primary to satellite stomata proportion is a distinct trait that reveals different phenotypes hidden under the same SI.

Annals of Botany

A distinct trait of the cancer metabolism is the unscheduled activation of glycolytic enzymes in normoxic conditions, indicated by increased cellular glucose uptake, hyperglycolysis, and lactate production.

Cell Death and Disease

However, in this case too, the standard error is too large to conclude that maternal GL is a distinct trait in first and later parities.

Genetics, Selection, Evolution

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

But the research is careful to point out the findings don't mean that conservatives are, by extension, more likely to exhibit "conspiracist ideation" which the study categorises as a style of thinking rather than a distinct personality trait.

The Guardian

To be fair, Tyrese is another character known for making irrational choices and poor judgment calls, but that's a problem with how he's been written rather than a distinct character trait.

Forbes

In this study, we provide solid evidence for the link of WGD to pathway expansion of a distinct key trait relevant for herbivore defense and hence highly connected to fitness.

Genome Biology and Evolution

Evaluation of such distinct trait pairs in light of previously known trait connections is a general problem, and no suitable systematic annotation is currently available.

eLife

Simulations in the speed analysis can result in either antiphase or ¼-lag predator-prey cycles, both characterized by distinct trait dynamics (Fig. 1a,b).

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a distinct trait", ensure that the trait you are describing is genuinely distinguishable from other traits in the context you are providing. Clarity is key for effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct trait" in conjunction with other redundant adjectives or adverbs that weaken the impact of the phrase. For instance, avoid saying "a very distinct trait" when "a distinct trait" is sufficient.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct trait" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific characteristic or feature that sets something apart. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it’s grammatically sound and usable in English. Examples in Ludwig illustrate its use in describing features of tumors, personalities, and even action figures.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a distinct trait" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to denote a notable characteristic that differentiates something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is effectively used across various domains, primarily science and news media. While alternatives like "unique attribute" or "defining characteristic" exist, the key is to ensure the trait is genuinely distinguishable. Avoid redundant phrasing to maintain clarity and impact. Although not highly frequent, this phrase serves a valuable purpose in precise and descriptive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a unique attribute

Emphasizes the uniqueness of the characteristic.

a characteristic feature

Highlights the feature aspect of the trait.

a defining characteristic

Stresses that the trait is key to identifying something.

a peculiar quality

Suggests the trait is unusual or odd.

a notable attribute

Highlights the trait's importance or visibility.

a specific feature

Emphasizes that the feature is particular and well-defined.

an individual characteristic

Focuses on the trait as belonging to a single entity.

a singular quality

Underscores the uniqueness and individuality of the trait.

a separate attribute

Highlights that the trait is considered apart from others.

a special feature

Suggests the feature is exceptional or important.

FAQs

How can I use "a distinct trait" in a sentence?

You can use "a distinct trait" to highlight a particular characteristic that sets something apart. For example, "One "distinct trait" of this species is its vibrant coloration".

What are some alternatives to "a distinct trait"?

Alternatives include "a unique attribute", "a defining characteristic", or "a notable feature". Depending on the context, these options may provide a more precise or nuanced meaning.

Is it correct to say "a very distinct trait"?

While grammatically correct, "a very distinct trait" can be redundant. Consider using just ""distinct trait"" for conciseness.

What's the difference between "a distinct trait" and "a common trait"?

"A "distinct trait"" refers to a characteristic that differentiates something, while "a common trait" refers to a characteristic shared by many. They are essentially opposites.