a usual attribute

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a usual attribute" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a characteristic or quality that is commonly associated with something or someone. Example: "In many cultures, honesty is considered a usual attribute of a good leader."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedia

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Asclepius was frequently represented standing, dressed in a long cloak, with bare breast; his usual attribute was a staff with a serpent coiled around it.

Encyclopedia Britannica

By her feet is her usual attribute of an alabaster jar; in the Gospels she brought spices to the tomb of Jesus.

Wikipedia

In some ways, her ascent is a reflection of the usual attributes — ambition and a knack for playing corporate politics.

The New York Times

The Palestinian Authority (PA), created by the 1993 Oslo accords to run the occupied territories until a final deal on statehood was reached, is missing many of a sovereign state's usual attributes.

The Economist

Sanity, sympathy, worldliness, broad-minded ambivalence about change — these are the usual attributes of a major administrator, rather than of a major artist.

The New Yorker

This being the northwest of England, the usual attributes of a Full English -- fried bacon, fried eggs, fried mushrooms, fried tomatoes -- were complemented by chunks of Cumberland sausage (a spicier, meatier variant on the less muscular southern sausage) or black pudding, a close relative of the German Blutwurst, or blood sausage.

The New York Times - Travel

The death rate was an average of 60% higher than usual, attributed to the 40C heat in parts of Europe.

The Guardian

Mr. Smith's John — who is a spindly guy with few of the usual attributes of Adonis-like hommes fatals — is so very attractive in large part because he has so little will of his own.

The New York Times

Mr Castañeda has swagger and intellectual verve, but few of the other usual attributes of presidential candidates such as a political party, staff and lots of money.

The Economist

He holds his usual attributes, the sudarshana chakra (discus) and a shankha (conch), in his back arms.

Wikipedia

The new store, a CVS pharmacy planned for Broadway and 102nd Street, has none of the usual attributes that inspire protests.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something's typical features, use "a usual attribute" to denote a common and expected characteristic.

Common error

Avoid using "a usual attribute" in highly formal or technical writing where more precise terminology may be appropriate. Consider using "typical characteristic" or "standard feature" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a usual attribute" functions as a descriptive element, typically acting as a predicate nominative or an adjective modifying a noun. It signifies a characteristic commonly associated with a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

25%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a usual attribute" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a common or typical characteristic. Although not exceptionally frequent, it appears in various contexts, including news media, encyclopedias, wikis, and scientific publications. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is valid and can be employed to denote something's typical features. Alternative phrases like "a typical characteristic" or "a common trait" can be used for variety. When writing, consider the context to ensure that the level of formality is correct for the target audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a typical characteristic

Replaces "usual" with "typical", emphasizing commonality.

a common trait

Substitutes "attribute" with "trait", focusing on inherent qualities.

a standard feature

Replaces "attribute" with "feature", highlighting functionality or design.

a regular quality

Emphasizes the consistent presence of the attribute.

a prevailing characteristic

Suggests the attribute is widespread or dominant.

a customary property

Focuses on the habitual or traditional nature of the attribute.

a conventional aspect

Highlights the attribute's adherence to established norms.

a recognized feature

Implies the attribute is widely acknowledged or identified.

an expected characteristic

Suggests the attribute is anticipated or predictable.

a general attribute

Emphasizes the attribute's broad or widespread application.

FAQs

How can I use "a usual attribute" in a sentence?

You can use "a usual attribute" to describe a common or typical characteristic of something. For example: "Honesty is "a usual attribute" of a good leader."

What can I say instead of "a usual attribute"?

You can use alternatives like "a typical characteristic", "a common trait", or "a standard feature" depending on the context.

Is "a usual attribute" formal or informal?

"A usual attribute" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, for highly formal or technical writing, consider using a more precise term.

What's the difference between "a usual attribute" and "a defining attribute"?

"A usual attribute" describes a common characteristic, while "a defining attribute" refers to a key characteristic that is essential to the nature or identity of something. A defining attribute is more critical and distinctive.