a hallmark of

USAGE SUMMARY

"a hallmark of" is a correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It typically means a distinguishing characteristic or quality that is associated with something or someone. Example: Creativity is often seen as a hallmark of a great artist.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Are humorous phrases a hallmark of yours?

The New York Times

Asceticism was a hallmark of his brand.

The New York Times - Style

That's a hallmark of his work.

The Guardian - Music

It's been a hallmark of his career.

The Guardian - Sport

Inflammation is a hallmark of cancer development.

Nature

That's a hallmark of Murray's work.

The New York Times - Books

Versatility was a hallmark of subsequent roles.

The New York Times

Freedom is a hallmark of Gesualdo's style.

The New Yorker

Elections are a hallmark of democracy.

The Washington Post

Angiogenesis induction is a hallmark of cancer.

European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry

Airways hyperresponsiveness is a hallmark of asthma.

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a hallmark of" to emphasize a particularly distinctive and recognizable feature. For example, "Attention to detail is a hallmark of her craftsmanship."

Common error

Avoid using "a hallmark of" for minor or insignificant characteristics. Reserve it for features that are truly defining and widely recognized. Using it loosely dilutes its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a hallmark of" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or appositive to identify and emphasize a key characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

34%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a hallmark of" is a versatile phrase used to denote a distinctive or defining characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It's appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, with a neutral register. To use it effectively, reserve it for significant features that are widely recognized, as overuse can diminish its impact. Key sources employing the phrase include "The New York Times", "The Guardian", and academic publications, reflecting its widespread applicability across diverse fields.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a defining feature of

Highlights that the feature is essential and central to the identity of something.

a characteristic of

Focuses on a typical or noticeable quality rather than a defining one.

a key aspect of

Implies that the feature is important and fundamental to understanding something.

a signature element of

Implies that the feature is unique and recognizable as belonging to a specific entity.

a distinctive attribute of

Refers to a unique quality or characteristic that sets something apart.

an indicator of

Suggests that the feature serves as a sign or signal of something else.

a symbol of

Emphasizes that the feature represents or stands for something broader.

a common trait of

Indicates a feature that is frequently observed within a group or category.

a typical example of

Highlights the representative nature of the feature within a category or group.

a representation of

This alternative phrase focuses on the act of symbolizing or portraying something.

FAQs

What does "a hallmark of" mean?

The phrase "a hallmark of" signifies a distinguishing characteristic, feature, or quality that is typical or representative of a person, thing, or concept.

How can I use "a hallmark of" in a sentence?

You can use "a hallmark of" to highlight a key feature. For example, "Innovation is "a hallmark of" their company's success."

What are some alternatives to "a hallmark of"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a characteristic of", "a defining feature of", or "a signature element of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a hallmark of" formal or informal?

The phrase "a hallmark of" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the writing than the phrase itself.