characterise by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "characterized by" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a recognizable or defining characteristic of something or someone. Example: "His writing style was characterized by its poetic language and vivid imagery." In this sentence, "characterized by" is used to describe the defining features of the writing style in question. Other possible uses of this phrase could include: - "The city is often characterized by its vibrant nightlife and bustling streets." - "The company's success is characterized by its innovative products and customer-centric approach." - "Her personality is characterized by her sharp wit and outgoing nature."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The most valuable attitude we can help children adopt - the one that, among other things, helps them to write and read with most fluency and effectiveness and enjoyment - I can best characterise by the word playful.

The Guardian

"It just is not worth trying to characterise by numbers," Brigadier General Vince Brooks, the deputy director of operations at US central command, said just days before the fall of Baghdad.

The Guardian

However, US will retain a role in targeting the biopsy of indeterminate lesions, or evaluation of lesions too small to characterise by CT.

British Journal of Cancer

CCEs, GSTs and P450s are encoded by large and diverse gene families that are difficult to fully characterise by traditional biochemical methods.

BMC Genomics

In conclusion we have been able to identify and characterise by transcriptomic analysis two different types of responses to two distinct immune agents, a virus, IHNV and a bacterial cell wall component, LPS and a 'mixed' response to an attenuated IHNV.

BMC Genomics

For instance, vitamin B12 intake may be challenging to characterise by dietary intake assessment as its serum level can be affected by gastrointestinal malabsorption syndromes, such as those seen with pernicious anaemia, Crohn's disease or gastric bypass surgery; by excessive alcohol intake or by common medications, including antacids and antidiabetic agents, among others.

BMJ Open

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

They're also characterised by their speech.

Independent

It was characterised by two conflicting aims.

The Economist

Fundraising attempts have been characterised by failure.

The Guardian

❦ The Corporation was always characterised by anxiety.

The Guardian - Books

The systems are characterised by:.

Artificial Intelligence in Medicine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "characterise by", ensure that the characteristics you are attributing are indeed defining and recognizable features of the subject you are describing.

Common error

Avoid using "characterise by" to describe transient or superficial qualities. The phrase is most effective when highlighting core, enduring attributes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "characterise by" functions as a descriptor, pinpointing the key features that define a subject. As Ludwig examples show, it's used to specify defining aspects, whether it's a playful attitude or responses to immune agents.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "characterise by" is a grammatically sound and recognized way to express the defining traits of a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While not the most frequent phrase, it appears across academic, scientific, and news contexts to highlight distinguishing features. When using "characterise by", ensure you're pinpointing core attributes rather than fleeting qualities. Alternatives like "define by" or "distinguish by" offer similar ways to specify key features.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

define by

Emphasizes setting the boundaries or limits of something through specific characteristics, rather than just describing it.

distinguish by

Focuses on how particular traits set something apart from others.

mark by

Highlights features that leave a distinct impression or serve as a noticeable indicator.

identify by

Stresses the use of specific attributes to recognize or determine what something is.

attribute to

Connects characteristics as qualities belonging to something, often implying causation.

typify by

Indicates that certain features are representative and standard for a particular category or example.

epitomize by

Suggests the characteristics are an ideal example of something.

feature by

Highlights the presence of certain prominent aspects or elements.

delineate by

Emphasizes defining or portraying something precisely using detailed attributes.

known for

Highlights that something is widely recognized for specific qualities or actions.

FAQs

How can I use "characterise by" in a sentence?

Use "characterise by" to highlight the most noticeable or defining features of a subject. For instance, "The novel is "characterised by" its complex plot and vivid descriptions."

What are some alternatives to "characterise by"?

Alternatives include "define by", "distinguish by", or "mark by". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "characterise by" or "characterized by"?

"Characterise" is the British English spelling, while "characterized" is the American English spelling. Choose the spelling that aligns with your audience and the style guide you're following.

What's the difference between "characterise by" and "known for"?

"Characterise by" emphasizes the inherent qualities that define something, while "known for" highlights qualities that are widely recognized by others. For instance, "The region is "characterised by" its mountainous terrain" versus "The region is "known for" its wine production".