a particular character

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a particular character" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific individual or figure in a narrative, story, or context. Example: "In the novel, the author develops a particular character who embodies the struggles of the time period."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Do the regions each have a particular character?

The New York Times - Food

A deep-learning algorithm associates the pixels in an image with a particular character.

MIT Technology Review

I was asked recently why I called a particular character "Rowan" - was it for the tree?

The Guardian - Books

"I would be startled if, for example, a particular character became the main character," she said.

The New York Times

Or he could learn that a particular character did not inspire the intended emotional response.

The New York Times - Science

Around 1260 the first attempts were made to endow the with a particular character.

Encyclopedia Britannica

B.B.: Is there a particular character or memory that led to writing "Ancient Anecdotage"?

The New Yorker

So the book is divided into sections, each devoted to the browbeating of a particular character.

The New York Times - Books

Is there a particular character or scene that you are looking forward to illustrating?

The Guardian

When I'm preparing for a particular character, I look for ideas about her wherever I can.

The Guardian

Sometimes I need to hand-make a particular character for a story.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a particular character" when you want to emphasize the selection of a specific, identifiable character from a larger group or cast. For example, "The story focuses on the struggles of a particular character during the war."

Common error

Avoid using "a particular character" too frequently in formal or academic writing where more precise language might be preferred. Instead of saying "a particular character exhibits these traits", consider specifying the character's name or using a more descriptive phrase like "this protagonist".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a particular character" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific, though potentially unspecified, individual within a broader context. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is both grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

20%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a particular character" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to denote a specific individual within a larger context. As Ludwig AI points out, it's suitable for identifying a specific figure in narratives, discussions, or analyses. While widely applicable, it's advisable to avoid overuse in extremely formal settings where more descriptive or precise language might be preferred. Common contexts include news media, scientific literature, and general discussions. Alternatives like "a specific character" or "an individual character" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. The phrase is frequently encountered, making it a valuable addition to any writer's toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific character

Replaces "particular" with "specific", indicating a definite and clearly defined character.

a certain character

Substitutes "particular" with "certain", suggesting a character that is known but perhaps not explicitly named.

an individual character

Replaces "particular" with "individual", emphasizing the distinct and unique nature of the character.

a unique character

Emphasizes the distinctiveness of the character.

a notable character

Highlights the character's importance or prominence.

a significant character

Emphasizes the character's impact on the story or context.

a prominent character

Suggests the character is well-known or stands out.

a key character

Indicates the character is essential to the plot or situation.

a main character

Specifies the character as one of the central figures.

a central character

Highlights the character's role as a focal point.

FAQs

How can I use "a particular character" in a sentence?

Use "a particular character" when you want to refer to a specific individual or figure, especially within a narrative or context. For example, "The director chose "a particular character" to highlight the themes of redemption."

What are some alternatives to "a particular character"?

You can use alternatives like "a specific character", "a certain character", or "an individual character" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "a particular character" or "a specific character"?

Both "a particular character" and "a specific character" are correct and often interchangeable. "Specific" might imply more precision, while "particular" can suggest a selection from a group.

In what contexts is "a particular character" most appropriate?

"A particular character" is suitable in contexts where you are discussing a selected individual within a broader narrative, such as in literature, film, or historical analysis.