chief feature

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chief feature" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the most important or prominent characteristic of something. Example: "The chief feature of this new smartphone is its advanced camera technology, which sets it apart from competitors."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

The chief feature within them is the accurate definition of shape factors.

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

The chief feature of the celebration will be a big garden party at the White House.

The New York Times

A chief feature of Japanese unionism is its decentralized "enterprise-level" structure.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Meanwhile, OK!'s chief feature writer, Colette Walsh, has resigned from the magazine.

The Guardian

Its chief feature is the magnificent avenue of palm trees leading from the seafront to the Casino Internacional.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Empty prescription bottles are a chief feature of "Last Way Out," and "Snack Cracker" is wicked in its punning.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

The chief features are a riverbank quay, with palaces nearby, and a great temple of Amon.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As Helen Pearson, the chief features editor at Nature, notes: "Poverty can seem like an inescapable trap".

The Guardian

Some primary concepts are introduced for porous materials, including porous metals, porous ceramics, and polymer foams, and their main groups and chief features.

Porous Materials Processing and Applications

A concise exposition setting forth the chief features of the program in language accessible to those outside the specific field.

University of California, Berkeley

A concise summary of the chief features of the program in language accessible to those outside the specific field.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing products or services, use "chief feature" to emphasize the most innovative or marketable aspect.

Common error

Avoid using "chief feature" in casual conversation. Opt for simpler terms like "main thing" or "best part" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chief feature" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves to identify and emphasize the most important or prominent characteristic of a subject. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English, fitting into various grammatical structures to highlight essential attributes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

24%

Science

24%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "chief feature" is a grammatically sound and commonly used term to denote the most important or prominent characteristic of something. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's suitable for a range of contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias and scientific writing, reflecting a neutral to professional register. While alternatives like "main characteristic" or "key aspect" exist, "chief feature" offers a specific emphasis on prominence. For writers, it's best used to highlight innovative or marketable aspects, while avoiding overuse in casual speech. Ludwig's analysis confirms its validity and utility in conveying essential attributes across varied subjects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main characteristic

Focuses on the primary attribute instead of highlighting it as a feature.

primary attribute

Emphasizes the inherent quality rather than a notable aspect.

key aspect

Highlights a specific facet rather than an overall feature.

defining characteristic

Stresses that the characteristic is essential and determinative.

principal element

Indicates a fundamental component, not necessarily a visible feature.

most important aspect

Directly states the level of importance rather than a descriptive term.

central component

Highlights the core or integral nature of an element.

essential quality

Focuses on the indispensable nature of a trait.

hallmark trait

Identifies a distinctive and recognizable attribute.

major selling point

Highlights an attribute that is used to promote or market a product.

FAQs

How can I use "chief feature" in a sentence?

Use "chief feature" to highlight the most important or prominent aspect of something. For example, "The "chief feature" of the new phone is its enhanced battery life".

What are some alternatives to "chief feature"?

Alternatives include "main characteristic", "key aspect", or "principal element". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "chief feature" formal or informal?

"Chief feature" is suitable for neutral to formal contexts, such as news articles, encyclopedia entries, and academic papers. In more relaxed settings, simpler terms might be preferable.

What's the difference between "chief feature" and "defining characteristic"?

"Chief feature" points to a prominent aspect, while "defining characteristic" emphasizes an attribute that is essential to the identity or nature of something.