be the defining feature

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be the defining feature" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is the most important or characteristic aspect of a person, object, or situation. Example: "In this project, collaboration will be the defining feature that sets us apart from our competitors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

And that last word, he said, will be the defining feature of Dr. Spock, the enterprise.

The New York Times

But that didn't need to be the defining feature of the product.

The Guardian

What would be the defining feature of the campaign, such as a slogan, image, color, shape, celebrity, spokesperson, or character?

The New York Times

This new focus on "putting our own house in order", in the prime minister's words, will be the defining feature of this year's development campaign.

The Guardian

And this feeling of anachronism, of encountering something at once old and new and therefore hard to place, may be the defining feature of the late film.

The New York Times

What this says is that what seems to be the defining feature of Western political economy at the turn of the millennium -- the triumph of free-market ideology -- is far less complete than some would imagine.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The kids are the defining feature.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Delays are the defining feature of the system.

The New Yorker

They are the defining feature of my aesthetic.

The Guardian - Music

Indeed, it is the defining feature of the modern corporation.

The Economist

The thing that has been the defining feature of my life is now a struggle.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be the defining feature" when you want to emphasize that a specific trait, aspect, or characteristic is the most important or distinctive one.

Common error

While "be the defining feature" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise or nuanced language to convey the intended meaning. Consider alternatives like "the key attribute" or "the central element" for variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be the defining feature" functions as a predicate nominative, identifying a noun or noun phrase with the subject of the sentence. It describes what constitutes the most important characteristic or aspect of something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be the defining feature" serves to pinpoint the most crucial or distinctive aspect of a subject. Ludwig AI analysis confirms the phrase's correct usage and broad applicability across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While widely used, consider nuanced alternatives like "be the key attribute" or "be the central element" to enrich your writing. Source analysis indicates a strong presence in reputable news outlets and scientific publications, reinforcing its reliability in conveying essential characteristics. Remember to use the phrase thoughtfully to emphasize the most important elements in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be the defining characteristic

Replaces "feature" with "characteristic", emphasizing a quality that distinguishes something.

be the key attribute

Substitutes "defining feature" with "key attribute", focusing on an essential quality.

be the hallmark

Uses "hallmark" to indicate a distinctive and recognizable characteristic.

be the central element

Replaces "defining feature" with "central element", highlighting a core component.

be the essence

Conveys that something is the fundamental nature or quality.

be the critical factor

Focuses on something being a decisive element.

be the most important aspect

Explicitly states the significance of a particular aspect.

be the core component

Highlights something as a fundamental part.

be the distinguishing trait

Emphasizes a characteristic that sets something apart.

be the main identifier

Focuses on what primarily identifies something.

FAQs

How can I use "be the defining feature" in a sentence?

You can use "be the defining feature" to emphasize the most important or distinctive aspect of something. For example: "Collaboration will "be the defining feature" of our project."

What are some alternatives to "be the defining feature"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "be the key attribute", "be the hallmark", or "be the essence".

Is it appropriate to use "be the defining feature" in formal writing?

Yes, it is generally appropriate. However, consider using more precise language if the context requires it, such as "be the central element" or "be the most important aspect".

What does "be the defining feature" mean?

It means to constitute the most important or characteristic aspect of something, setting it apart or making it recognizable.