a key characteristic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key characteristic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to highlight an important feature or quality of a person, object, or concept. Example: "One key characteristic of successful leaders is their ability to communicate effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A key characteristic is whether the risk is natural or human-made.

The Guardian

Lavish tombs were a key characteristic of ancient Egyptian culture, dating back to prehistoric periods.

The New Yorker

Or you might ask why a key characteristic of western culture is widespread overwork.

The Guardian - Opinion

Intrusiveness is a key characteristic to consider when creating an interface for raising awareness.

The Guardian

Continuity is a key characteristic of good care, argues one GP.

The Guardian

Actomyosin contractility is a key characteristic of activated HSCs, allowing mechanotransduction and force generation.

Nature

A key characteristic of Twitter is that there is a good deal of reciprocity between users.

MIT Technology Review

Having a culture of mutual respect was identified as a key characteristic of the best examples of partnership working.

The Guardian

But only a tiny proportion of the leaders (2%) think mentoring is a key characteristic of future public leaders.

The Guardian

In a way, this is a key characteristic – GTA demands to be irreverent on its own terms.

The Guardian - Tech

A key characteristic of the disease atherosclerosis is the gradual accumulation of plaque deposits on the walls of arteries.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a key characteristic", ensure that the characteristic you are highlighting is indeed a central and defining feature of the subject you are discussing. Provide clear examples or evidence to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "a key characteristic" to describe minor or insignificant aspects. Ensure the characteristic is genuinely important and not just a superficial detail.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key characteristic" functions as a noun phrase that introduces and emphasizes an important attribute, feature, or quality of a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

38%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a key characteristic" is a widely used and grammatically correct way to introduce an important feature or attribute. Ludwig AI analysis, based on numerous examples from diverse sources, shows its suitability across various contexts, including science, news media, and academia. While alternatives like "a major characteristic" or "a defining feature" exist, "a key characteristic" remains a versatile and effective choice for emphasizing essential qualities. Remember to use this phrase when you want to highlight a central and defining feature, supported by clear evidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major characteristic

Replaces "key" with "major", emphasizing the importance but with a slightly different intensity.

a primary attribute

Substitutes "characteristic" with "attribute", focusing on an inherent quality or feature.

a defining feature

Emphasizes that the characteristic is crucial for identifying or understanding something.

an essential quality

Replaces "characteristic" with "quality", highlighting an indispensable aspect.

a crucial element

Focuses on the characteristic as a necessary component or part of something.

a significant aspect

Highlights the importance of the characteristic as a notable part of a larger whole.

a fundamental trait

Uses "trait" to describe an inherent and essential characteristic.

a core component

Emphasizes that the characteristic is a central and vital part of something.

a central element

Highlights that the characteristic is fundamental and of the highest relevance.

a notable attribute

Similar to 'a primary attribute' but emphasizing that it is particularly worthy of attention.

FAQs

How can I use "a key characteristic" in a sentence?

Use "a key characteristic" to introduce a central or defining feature of a subject. For example, "A key characteristic of successful leaders is their ability to communicate effectively."

What can I say instead of "a key characteristic"?

You can use alternatives like "a major characteristic", "a primary attribute", or "a defining feature" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "a key characteristic"?

While "key" and "characteristic" can sometimes overlap in meaning, the phrase is generally accepted and not considered significantly redundant. It serves to emphasize the importance of the attribute being described.

How does "a key characteristic" differ from "a crucial element"?

"A key characteristic" highlights a defining feature, while "a crucial element" suggests a necessary component. The former describes what something is, the latter, what something needs.