characteristic of a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "characteristic of a" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a quality or feature that is typical of a particular person, thing, or group. Example: "The resilience shown by the team is characteristic of a successful organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That is characteristic of a great masterpiece".

The Guardian

Police accountability is a defining characteristic of a democracy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Disparities are characteristic of a society, not an individual.

The New Yorker

That is characteristic of a young developing country.

The Economist

The filaments emit the spectrum characteristic of a diffuse nebula.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Growth is characteristic of a nodular, or many-lobed, mass.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Disraeli once said that "permissive legislation is the characteristic of a free people".

The Guardian - Opinion

The building contains a mix of architectural styles characteristic of a 19th-century New England tavern.

The New York Times - Travel

One characteristic of a ruling class is its presumption of its right to rule.

The New York Times - Books

That is characteristic of a show that shambles along with no structure or purpose.

The Guardian

One necessary, but not sufficient, characteristic of a classic is that it should remain in print.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "characteristic of a", ensure that the noun following "of" accurately reflects the subject being described. Precision in this regard enhances clarity and avoids misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "characteristic of a" with overly broad or ill-defined subjects. For instance, instead of saying "That's characteristic of life", specify what aspect of life you're referring to, such as "That struggle is characteristic of life in poverty".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "characteristic of a" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun by attributing a quality or feature that is typical or distinctive. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a standard and acceptable construction in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

37%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "characteristic of a" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe typical or distinctive qualities. Ludwig AI confirms that it's perfectly usable in written English. It is most commonly found in news, media, and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When writing with "characteristic of a", precision and clarity are key to effective communication. Alternatives such as "typical of a" or "indicative of a" can be used depending on the desired nuance. By understanding its function, purpose, and common usage patterns, writers can effectively incorporate this phrase into their work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typical of a

Focuses on the commonness or expected nature of the feature.

indicative of a

Highlights the feature as a sign or signal of something else.

representative of a

Emphasizes the feature as an example or embodiment of a larger category.

distinctive of a

Points out the unique or easily recognizable nature of the feature.

a hallmark of a

Suggests the feature is a defining or prominent attribute.

a trait of a

Highlights the feature as a quality or characteristic.

a property of a

Emphasizes the feature as an inherent or essential attribute.

a feature of a

Broadly indicates the feature as a notable aspect.

in keeping with a

Implies the feature aligns or is consistent with something.

consistent with a

Indicates the feature is in agreement or harmony with something.

FAQs

How can I use "characteristic of a" in a sentence?

You can use "characteristic of a" to describe a typical or notable feature. For example, "The resilience shown by the team is "characteristic of a" successful organization".

What are some alternatives to "characteristic of a"?

Alternatives include phrases like "typical of a", "indicative of a", or "representative of a", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "characteristic of a" differ from "typical of a"?

"Characteristic of a" emphasizes a distinctive quality, while "typical of a" suggests a common or expected feature. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight uniqueness or commonality.

Is it always necessary to use "a" after "characteristic of"?

Yes, the inclusion of "a" is grammatically necessary when referring to a singular, non-specific noun. Omission is only appropriate when the noun is plural (e.g., "characteristic of successful teams").