be the hallmark

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be the hallmark" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something serves as a distinguishing feature or a defining characteristic of a person, group, or concept. Example: "Her dedication to excellence will be the hallmark of our team's success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Remembrance must be the hallmark of our commemorations".

The Guardian

What will be the hallmark of a Nimax show?

Independent

Ethnic and racial conflict appear to be the hallmark of the post-Cold War world.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Ethnic and racial conflict appear to be the hallmark of the new world order.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

What it requires is the sort of doggedness that used to be the hallmark of reporting.

The New York Times

And personally, I'd rather that not be the hallmark of my true character.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Measurement and accountability should be the hallmark of all government spending.

The New York Times

Non-falsifiable belief systems used only to be the hallmark of ideological communism or religious zealotry.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mixed messages seem also to be the hallmark of the administration's approach to Iraq.

The New York Times

This year's fashion victim is the Gap, which has tried to be the hallmark of hip.

The New York Times

This condition, which is known as aneuploidy, is thought to be the hallmark of tumorigenesis," said Dr. Iavarone.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be the hallmark", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being defined or characterized. This phrase is effective for emphasizing a key attribute or quality.

Common error

Avoid using "be the hallmark" in contexts where the characteristic isn't truly distinctive or defining. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing sound less precise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be the hallmark" functions as a predicative expression, attributing a distinctive characteristic or feature to a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to highlight what is most typical or recognizable about something. Examples from Ludwig show it used to describe qualities ranging from government spending to a person's character.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Academia

23%

Science

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be the hallmark" is a versatile phrase used to denote a defining or distinctive characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It is most frequently found in news and media, academic writing, and scientific discourse. While "be the hallmark" is generally formal, avoiding overuse and ensuring it accurately reflects a key attribute will enhance its effectiveness. Consider using synonyms like ""be the defining characteristic"" or ""be the distinguishing feature"" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be the defining characteristic

Replaces "hallmark" with a more explicit term, emphasizing the characteristic's role in defining something.

be the distinguishing feature

Focuses on the aspect that sets something apart from others.

be characteristic of

Emphasizes that something is typical or representative of someone or something.

be synonymous with

Implies a very close association, almost interchangeable identity.

be emblematic of

Suggests that something serves as a symbol or representation of something else.

be the signature of

Indicates that something is a unique and recognizable mark.

be the trademark of

Suggests a distinctive and legally protected feature.

be known for

Focuses on what something is famous or recognized for.

be typified by

Highlights the features that are most representative of something.

be defined by

Highlights the elements that serve as the definition for the thing.

FAQs

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

Use "be the hallmark" to describe a defining characteristic or feature. For example, "Attention to detail will "be the hallmark" of this project".

What are some alternatives to saying "be the hallmark"?

Alternatives include "be the defining characteristic", "be the distinguishing feature", or "be characteristic of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "is the hallmark" or "be the hallmark"?

"Is the hallmark" is grammatically correct in many sentences. "Be the hallmark" is usually part of an infinitive phrase (e.g. "to be the hallmark") or a subjunctive construction. The choice depends on the sentence's grammatical structure.

What is the difference between "be the hallmark" and "define"?

"Be the hallmark" suggests a prominent or distinctive quality, while "define" implies setting a clear boundary or meaning. You might say, "Customer service will "be the hallmark" of our business," but "Our core values define our business strategy".