be a hallmark of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a hallmark of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is a distinctive feature or characteristic of a particular person, group, or thing. Example: "Innovation and creativity are often seen to be a hallmark of successful companies in the tech industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Uncertainty about the economy will be a hallmark of this year — especially given the political implications.

The New Yorker

The smile, his mother says, voice breaking, "seems to be a hallmark of my son".

The New York Times

The evolution of increasingly difficult jumps continues to be a hallmark of the sport.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Such reliance on covert informers came to be a hallmark of French policing.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Using debt to his advantage would continue to be a hallmark of his approach to acquisitions.

The New York Times

Such self-administration of drugs by animals has been shown to be a hallmark of addictive substances.

The New York Times - Health

The rapid accumulation of critical mass, and assets which can share costs, will be a hallmark of the coming years.

The Guardian

Why does this sort of senseless violence seem to be a hallmark of the Mexican drug war?

The New York Times - Books

In his Downing Street remarks, he made clear that fiscal toughness would be a hallmark of his government.

The New York Times

The development of consumer-friendly electronics products may be a hallmark of the digital age, but that engineered friendliness is not always appreciated in Hollywood.

The New York Times

On a trip last month, my husband, Dirk, and I found gracious, knowledgeable service as well as good food to be a hallmark of the city's restaurants.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a hallmark of", ensure that the connection between the subject and its defining characteristic is clear and well-supported by context.

Common error

While useful, overuse of "be a hallmark of" can make writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "characteristic of" or "typical of" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a hallmark of" functions as a predicate nominative, linking a subject to a noun phrase that renames or describes it. It asserts that something is a defining or distinctive characteristic. As Ludwig shows, this phrase is used to highlight key attributes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

34%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be a hallmark of" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a distinctive feature or characteristic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic sources. To avoid repetition, consider using alternatives like "be characteristic of" or "be typical of". By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively use "be a hallmark of" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be a trademark of

This alternative uses "trademark" emphasizing a distinctive and recognizable feature, often associated with branding.

be characteristic of

This alternative is a more direct and common way to express that something is typical of something else.

be typical of

This option suggests that something is representative or usual for a particular thing or situation.

be indicative of

This phrase implies that something serves as a sign or indication of something else.

be representative of

This suggests that something is a typical example or portrayal of something else.

be distinctive of

This alternative highlights that something is unique and easily recognizable.

be a feature of

Using "feature" emphasizes a notable attribute or aspect.

be a sign of

This option denotes that something serves as evidence or indication of something else.

be associated with

This phrase indicates a connection or link between two things.

be known for

This suggests that something is famous or recognized for a particular quality or attribute.

FAQs

How can I use "be a hallmark of" in a sentence?

The phrase "be a hallmark of" is used to describe a distinctive feature or characteristic of something. For example, "Attention to detail is a hallmark of their work."

What can I say instead of "be a hallmark of"?

You can use alternatives like "be characteristic of", "be typical of", or "be indicative of" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "be a hallmark of" or "become a hallmark of"?

The choice between "be a hallmark of" and "become a hallmark of" depends on whether you're describing a current state or a process of development. The former describes an existing trait, while the latter describes something evolving into a defining trait.

What's the difference between "be a hallmark of" and "be known for"?

"Be a hallmark of" refers to a defining characteristic, while "be known for" suggests something is famous or recognized for a particular quality. The former is more intrinsic, while the latter is more about reputation.