are characteristic of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are characteristic of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe traits or features that are typical or indicative of a particular person, group, or thing. Example: "The vibrant colors and intricate patterns are characteristic of traditional Mexican art."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Such nests are characteristic of gorillas.

The Economist

Masked dances especially are characteristic of Korea.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Calidad's soups are characteristic of its approach.

The New York Times - Arts

Disparities are characteristic of a society, not an individual.

The New Yorker

Hall churches are characteristic of the German Gothic period.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Three striking vowel changes are characteristic of this period.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Both types are characteristic of plants in the mustard family.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Permanent irrigation systems are characteristic of the Mediterranean lowlands.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Other features are characteristic of the ablation zone.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Immense quarries and mills are characteristic of the area.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But these moves are characteristic of Mr Sarin.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are characteristic of" to highlight qualities that are typical, distinctive, or representative of a subject, ensuring clarity and precision in your descriptions.

Common error

Avoid using "are characteristic of" in overly broad or generic statements; instead, specify the context or conditions under which the characteristics are observed for greater impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are characteristic of" functions as a predicate adjective, linking a subject to a description of its typical or distinctive traits. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are characteristic of" is a grammatically sound and commonly used predicate adjective phrase that serves to highlight the typical or distinctive qualities of a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. It's most frequently found in scientific and news contexts, and while versatile, it should be used with specificity to avoid broad generalizations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are typical of

This alternative uses 'typical' instead of 'characteristic', emphasizing commonness.

are indicative of

This phrase uses 'indicative' to highlight the signaling nature of the characteristics.

are representative of

This alternative emphasizes that the characteristics exemplify a larger group or category.

are distinctive of

This uses 'distinctive' to focus on unique and easily recognizable features.

are emblematic of

This alternative suggests the characteristics symbolize or represent something.

are features of

This phrase is a more general way to point out qualities or attributes.

are traits of

Using 'traits' emphasizes inherent qualities or behaviors.

are attributes of

This alternative uses 'attributes' to denote qualities or characteristics ascribed to something.

are peculiar to

This emphasizes that the characteristic is unique or specific to something.

are inherent in

This phrase suggests that the characteristics are naturally part of something's nature.

FAQs

How can I use "are characteristic of" in a sentence?

Use "are characteristic of" to describe qualities that are typical or distinctive of a particular subject. For example, "High energy levels and playful behavior "are characteristic of" puppies."

What phrases can I use instead of "are characteristic of"?

You can use alternatives such as "are typical of", "are indicative of", or "are representative of" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "are characteristic of" and "are features of"?

"Are characteristic of" implies a typical or distinctive trait, whereas "are features of" simply denotes qualities or aspects without necessarily implying typicality.

Is it correct to say "is characteristic of" instead of "are characteristic of"?

Yes, "is characteristic of" is correct when referring to a singular subject, while "are characteristic of" is used for plural subjects. For example, "This behavior is characteristic of the species."