chief features

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chief features" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the most important or prominent characteristics of something. Example: "The chief features of this new software include enhanced security and user-friendly design."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

Academia

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

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

Encyclopedia Britannica

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

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

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

The Guardian

Its chief features are a dramatic fall in blood pressure that leads to pallor, cold extremities, and eventual collapse.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something complex, use "chief features" to clearly identify the most important aspects for your audience.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "chief features" can sound overly formal in casual writing. Opt for simpler phrases like "main parts" or "key things" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chief features" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It identifies the most important characteristics or aspects of a subject. As Ludwig indicates, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

21%

News & Media

43%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Science

16%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the noun phrase "chief features" is grammatically correct and used to emphasize the most important characteristics of a subject. While applicable in various contexts, it's more prevalent in encyclopedic, news, and academic writing, giving it a neutral register. As suggested by Ludwig, the phrase is usable in written English. Alternative phrases include "key attributes" and "main characteristics". When using "chief features", ensure it aligns with the tone and context of your writing, opting for simpler language in casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key attributes

Replaces 'features' with a synonym, focusing on inherent qualities.

main characteristics

Uses more common terms for 'chief' and 'features'.

primary traits

Emphasizes inherent qualities rather than components.

principal aspects

Focuses on the most important facets.

essential elements

Highlights indispensable components.

defining characteristics

Focuses on the attributes that uniquely identify something.

significant properties

Highlights important qualities or attributes.

prominent qualities

Stresses the notability of the attributes.

notable attributes

Highlights characteristics worthy of attention.

central components

Focuses on the core, indispensable parts.

FAQs

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

You can use "chief features" to highlight the most important or prominent characteristics of something. For instance, "The "chief features" of the new building are its energy efficiency and modern design.

What are some alternatives to "chief features"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "key attributes", "main characteristics", or "primary traits".

Is it correct to use "chief features" in formal writing?

Yes, "chief features" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when you need to emphasize the most significant aspects of a topic or subject.

What's the difference between "chief features" and "main features"?

While both phrases are similar, "chief features" carries a slightly stronger emphasis on the most important and defining aspects, whereas "main features" is a more general term for prominent aspects.