can be characterized by

USAGE SUMMARY

"can be characterized by" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is classified or identified by certain traits. For example: The cowboy lifestyle can be characterized by a love of wide-open spaces and a tough, independent attitude.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now California can be characterized by its stylistic diversity.

The New York Times - Food

Her husband has bipolar disorder, a mental illness that can be characterized by extreme mood swings.

The New York Times

"At times," he told the paper, "American warfare can be characterized by an overwhelming arrogance".

The New York Times

The changes he outlines can be characterized by what he calls a paradoxical combination of "prudence and boldness".

The New Yorker

In particular, can be characterized by [7]: (3).

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Therefore, it can be characterized by the fractal dimension (FD).

Chinese Journal of Mechanical Engineering

This distribution can be characterized by its statistical moments.

Structural Dynamics and Probabilistic Analyses for Engineers

Process simulation can be characterized by essential features.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Varieties and quasivarieties can be characterized by the closure properties they enjoy.

SEP

All of these distinctions can be characterized by means of supervenience theses.

SEP

This behavior can be characterized by an activity rate for each user.

EPJ Data Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be characterized by", ensure the characteristics you list are specific and illustrative. This helps provide a clear and accurate understanding of the subject.

Common error

Avoid using vague or overly broad characteristics when using "can be characterized by". Ensure the traits you mention are distinct and specific enough to provide meaningful insight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be characterized by" serves as a descriptor, indicating that a subject possesses specific attributes or features. It introduces elements that define or identify the subject, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

63%

News & Media

18%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be characterized by" is a versatile tool for defining entities, concepts, or phenomena through their distinct traits and attributes. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in science and news media. When writing, ensure the characteristics you list are specific and illustrative to provide clarity. Related phrases, such as "can be defined by" or "can be identified by", offer alternative ways to express this identification, depending on the specific nuances you want to convey. Avoid vague generalizations to maintain accuracy and meaningfulness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be defined by

Replaces "characterized" with "defined", focusing on essential qualities.

can be identified by

Shifts the focus to recognition based on specific traits.

can be distinguished by

Emphasizes unique features that set something apart.

can be recognized by

Highlights the ability to notice or become aware of something based on specific features.

is typified by

Focuses on representing a typical example of something.

is marked by

Suggests that something has distinct features.

is notable for

Highlights a quality that makes something worth paying attention to.

is known for

Indicates a common perception or reputation.

is associated with

Connects something with particular qualities or features.

is featured by

Highlights prominent aspects or components.

FAQs

How to use "can be characterized by" in a sentence?

Use "can be characterized by" to describe the key attributes or features that define something. For example, "Schizophrenia "can be characterized by" irrational thoughts and hallucinations."

What can I say instead of "can be characterized by"?

You can use alternatives such as "can be defined by", "can be identified by", or "is typified by" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "can be characterized by" or "is characterized by"?

"Can be characterized by" implies a potential or possibility, while "is characterized by" suggests a current or definitive state. Choose the option that best fits the intended meaning and context.

What does it mean when something "can be characterized by" specific traits?

It means that the thing in question has features that make it recognizable and distinguishable. These traits are key to understanding or classifying it.