an idiosyncrasy of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an idiosyncrasy of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a peculiar or distinctive characteristic or behavior of a person, group, or thing. Example: "Her tendency to speak in rhymes is an idiosyncrasy of her personality that makes her unique."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

"It's an idiosyncrasy of mine.

The New Yorker

This evidence was dismissed by many as an idiosyncrasy of the polar ice.

The New Yorker

"You have to accept this as an idiosyncrasy of this kind of country".

The New York Times

If the audience is looking for a murderer, it may conclude from this that this is the man they are after, misjudging an idiosyncrasy of his character.

Encyclopedia Britannica

What if "100percentt correct" turns out to mean "a really lousy picture?" I later learned that I'd stumbled onto an idiosyncrasy of my particular TV model.

The New York Times - Tech

As for the absence of "pianoforte style": while it is true that the tremolos of the duo seemingly mimic the orchestra, this is an idiosyncrasy of Schubert's keyboard style generally.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

From the shelf space in the bathroom to the wastepaper bins (tiny, fiddly bins are a bizarre idiosyncrasy of the hotel trade), there is little to complain about.

The Guardian - Travel

For it is a lamentable idiosyncrasy of feminism that, unlike other rights movements – the campaigns against prejudice based on race, class, or sexuality – its beneficiaries take their emancipation and run.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is a known idiosyncrasy of the BLAT program, and is resolved at the UCSC genome browser Web site by removing such repeat matches [ 21].

BMC Genomics

I was cultivating an idiosyncrasy: I was one of the few critics who carried a hatchet.

The New Yorker

Historically a place where the sartorial idiosyncrasy of many a big-name star has been allowed to shine – and that is true in particular of idiosyncrasy, European style – the world's most well-heeled are here required to be on their best behaviour for days on end as opposed to merely a few hours.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an idiosyncrasy of", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the idiosyncrasy belongs to or is associated with. For example: "The tendency to collect vintage teacups is an idiosyncrasy of her personality."

Common error

Avoid using "an idiosyncrasy of" when referring to general trends or common behaviors. This phrase is most effective when describing individual or specific peculiarities, not widespread phenomena.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an idiosyncrasy of" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used to specify a particular characteristic or feature that is unique or peculiar to someone or something. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in formal writing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

42%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an idiosyncrasy of" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that characterizes unique or peculiar attributes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for formal and neutral registers, particularly in News & Media and Science contexts. To enhance clarity, use this phrase to describe specific, individual peculiarities and avoid applying it to general trends. Semantically related phrases include "a peculiarity of" and "a quirk of", which offer subtle variations in meaning. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively use "an idiosyncrasy of" to add precision and depth to their descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a peculiarity of

Replaces "idiosyncrasy" with a more common synonym, focusing on something unusual or distinctive.

a quirk of

Emphasizes a minor, often endearing, oddity or habit.

a unique trait of

Highlights the distinctiveness and individuality of a characteristic.

a distinguishing feature of

Focuses on a characteristic that sets something apart from others.

a characteristic habit of

Specifically refers to a recurring behavior that is typical of someone.

a singular aspect of

Emphasizes the uniqueness and rarity of a particular aspect.

an unusual feature of

Highlights the uncommon nature of a specific feature.

a typical mannerism of

Refers to a distinctive gesture or way of behaving.

a personal foible of

Implies a minor weakness or eccentricity that is particular to an individual.

a defining attribute of

Highlights a key attribute that shapes the identity of something.

FAQs

How can I use "an idiosyncrasy of" in a sentence?

Use "an idiosyncrasy of" to describe a peculiar or unique characteristic or behavior of someone or something. For example: "His habit of talking to himself is "an idiosyncrasy of" his personality".

What are some alternatives to "an idiosyncrasy of"?

You can use alternatives like "a peculiarity of", "a quirk of", or "a unique trait of" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "an idiosyncrasy of" or should I use another article?

The use of "an" is grammatically correct because "idiosyncrasy" starts with a vowel sound. Using "a idiosyncrasy" would be incorrect.

What's the difference between "a quirk of" and "an idiosyncrasy of"?

While both refer to unusual traits, "a quirk of" often implies a minor or endearing oddity, whereas "an idiosyncrasy of" can refer to a more significant or defining peculiarity.