are characterised

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are characterised" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the defining features or qualities of something, often in a formal or academic context. Example: "The species are characterised by their unique adaptations to extreme environments."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The analytical properties are characterised for both modes of operations.

Journal of Chromatography A

In Maus the Jews are characterised as mice.

The Guardian - Books

Instead, Camus and Sartre are characterised as modish.

The Guardian - Books

Hypopomids are characterised in part by their tiny eyes and lack of teeth.

The Guardian

Interestingly, the information presences that we see are characterised by unusual patterns.

The Guardian

The island parks of Mljet, Kornati and Brijuni are characterised by uniquely diverse underwater worlds.

The Guardian - Travel

What these countries have in common is that they are characterised as being largely pro-European.

The Guardian

Sokurov's films are characterised by poetic imagery, spiritual allusions, big, big themes and long, long takes.

The Guardian - Film

"Her entire oeuvre and way of thinking are characterised by the acceptance of differences," Fritze said.

The Guardian

Journalistic texts are characterised by a certain structure that algorithms can be programmed to imitate.

The Guardian

Here, for instance, you will find the unfounded generalisations with which less enlightened souls are characterised.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are characterised", ensure the qualities you are describing are central and defining aspects of the subject. Avoid using it for incidental or minor features.

Common error

While "are characterised" is grammatically sound, overuse of passive voice can make writing seem indirect. Consider using active voice constructions where appropriate to improve clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are characterised" functions as a passive verb construction, used to describe the typical or defining attributes of a subject. As confirmed by Ludwig, it accurately conveys the qualities or features that distinguish something. Examples show its use in various contexts, from describing analytical properties in scientific journals to the cultural features of different societies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

46%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are characterised" is a grammatically correct and widely used passive verb construction that serves to describe the defining attributes or qualities of a subject. As indicated by Ludwig, it's suitable for formal and scientific writing, where precision and objectivity are paramount. While versatile, it's best used to highlight central, defining features rather than incidental aspects. Alternatives include "are defined by" and "are known for", offering nuanced ways to express similar concepts. The phrase is commonly found in Science, News & Media contexts. Remember to avoid overusing the passive voice to maintain clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are defined by

Focuses on the defining aspects, implying a stricter, more formal definition.

are known for

Highlights prominent or widely recognized qualities or features.

are distinguished by

Emphasizes unique or differentiating characteristics.

are marked by

Suggests that certain features are noticeable or conspicuous.

are typified by

Indicates that something represents a typical example of a broader category.

are identified by

Focuses on the features used to recognize or classify something.

possess the qualities of

A more descriptive and elaborate way to express having specific traits.

exhibit the traits of

Implies a demonstration or display of certain attributes.

can be described as

Offers a broader, more subjective characterization.

are associated with

Highlights a common connection or relationship, but not necessarily a defining feature.

FAQs

How to use "are characterised" in a sentence?

Use "are characterised" to describe the key features or attributes of a subject. For example, "The symptoms of the disease "are characterised" by fever and fatigue".

What can I say instead of "are characterised"?

You can use alternatives like "are defined by", "are known for", or "are distinguished by" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "are characterised" or "are characterized"?

"Are characterised" is the British English spelling, while "are characterized" is the American English spelling. Both are correct, but consistency within a document is important.

What's the difference between "are characterised by" and "are associated with"?

"Are characterised by" denotes defining features, while "are associated with" implies a connection or relationship that isn't necessarily a core attribute. For example, "The city's architecture "are characterised by" Art Deco influences", but "The city "are associated with" a vibrant music scene".