defining attribute

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defining attribute" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a characteristic or quality that is essential in identifying or distinguishing something. Example: "The defining attribute of a successful leader is their ability to inspire and motivate others."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

His love of Yiddishkeit, anything Jewish, was his defining attribute.

The New York Times

The RISC chip design, experts say, was a striking example of Mr. Cocke's defining attribute.

The New York Times

That awareness of others' perceptions is a defining attribute of a high potential.

Harvard Business Review

Of course the problem with most musicals today is that words as the genre's defining attribute have lost their primacy.

The New York Times

Achilles' defining attribute — it's the first word of the Iliad — is mēnin, usually translated as "wrath" or "rage".

The New Yorker

Some dancers have a defining attribute: Sylvie Guillem's ear-high extensions, Alina Cojocaru's airy delicacy, Natalia Osipova's enormous jump.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

In evolutionary theory, species do not have defining attributes and are not classes.

The New York Times - Books

Teamwork is one of the race's defining attributes; overcoming obstacles is another.

The New York Times - Sports

These are security systems that have three major defining attributes.

Integrated Security Systems Design Concepts, Specifications, and Implementation

His defining attributes are plate discipline, intelligence and the fact he can impact the baseball any time.

The New York Times

Mr. Eltife's colleagues in the Legislature cite his independent streak as one of his defining attributes as a senator.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "defining attribute" when you want to highlight a key characteristic that is essential for understanding or identifying something. It's particularly effective in formal writing and academic contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "defining attribute" in very casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "main feature" or "key aspect" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defining attribute" functions as a noun phrase, where "defining" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "attribute". This phrase typically identifies a crucial or essential characteristic. As Ludwig shows, it is often used to pinpoint a significant aspect of a subject.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "defining attribute" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase used to emphasize a crucial characteristic of a subject. Ludwig's analysis indicates its common usage in formal contexts such as news, science, and academia. While versatile, it's important to consider the formality of the setting, opting for simpler terms in casual conversations. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in written English. When aiming to express a key characteristic, "defining attribute" serves as a precise and effective choice in formal writing and analytical discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key characteristic

Focuses on the importance of the characteristic.

essential quality

Emphasizes the necessary nature of the quality.

distinguishing feature

Highlights the feature that sets something apart.

hallmark trait

Indicates a typical and recognizable trait.

central aspect

Focuses on the aspect being the most important.

primary characteristic

Emphasizes the characteristic being the first or foremost.

core element

Focuses on the element being fundamental and essential.

critical factor

Highlights the importance of the factor.

fundamental aspect

Emphasizes the basic and essential nature of the aspect.

identifying mark

Indicates a mark that serves to identify something.

FAQs

How to use "defining attribute" in a sentence?

The phrase "defining attribute" is used to describe a characteristic that is essential or fundamental to understanding something. For example, "Teamwork is one of the race's "defining attributes"; overcoming obstacles is another."

What can I say instead of "defining attribute"?

You can use alternatives like "key characteristic", "essential quality", or "distinguishing feature" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "defining attribute" and "key feature"?

"Defining attribute" suggests a more fundamental and essential aspect, while "key feature" might refer to an important but not necessarily essential characteristic. The choice depends on the degree of importance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the term "defining attribute"?

It's appropriate in formal writing, academic discussions, or when you want to emphasize the most essential characteristic of something. Avoid using it in casual conversations where simpler terms might be more suitable.