defining characteristic of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defining characteristic of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a key feature or quality that distinguishes something from others. Example: "The defining characteristic of a successful leader is their ability to inspire and motivate their team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It is really the defining characteristic of Kansas politics now".

The New York Times

Words are one of the defining characteristic of our humanity.

The Guardian - Opinion

Auto-mania is a defining characteristic of the country.

The New York Times - Travel

Sex was seen as a defining characteristic of delinquent behaviour.

The Guardian - Books

It's pretty much the defining characteristic of living things.

The Guardian - Tech

Police accountability is a defining characteristic of a democracy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Neoliberalism sees competition as the defining characteristic of human relations.

The Guardian - Books

The defining characteristic of London is its international nature.

The Guardian - Opinion

Historical consciousness is a defining characteristic of Confucian thought.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This can result in a blood sugar level above normal, the defining characteristic of diabetes.

The New York Times - Health

This is the curse, gift and defining characteristic of my generation: irony.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "defining characteristic of", ensure that the characteristic you are describing is indeed a key and distinguishing feature, not just a general attribute. Be specific and provide evidence to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "defining characteristic of" for attributes that are common to many things. The characteristic should be relatively unique to the subject you're describing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defining characteristic of" functions as a noun modifier, specifying a particular attribute or quality that is essential or distinctive to something. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defining characteristic of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to highlight a key attribute. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase effectively pinpoints the most important or unique features of a subject across a spectrum of contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. While alternatives like "distinguishing feature of" or "hallmark of" exist, "defining characteristic of" remains a clear and emphatic choice for specifying essential qualities. It's important to ensure that the characteristic is indeed unique to avoid overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defining attribute of

This phrase is very close in meaning, replacing "characteristic" with the similar term "attribute".

distinguishing feature of

This phrase highlights a specific aspect that sets something apart from others.

distinctive quality of

This highlights a unique or special feature.

key attribute of

This alternative emphasizes a significant quality or property.

primary feature of

This option emphasizes that the characteristic is of utmost importance.

hallmark of

This alternative suggests a distinctive feature that is typical or representative.

core element of

This alternative suggests that the characteristic is a basic and essential part.

essential trait of

This phrase stresses a fundamental and necessary characteristic.

central aspect of

This phrase underlines the importance of the characteristic to the core identity.

identifying marker of

This alternative focuses on a feature that helps recognize or classify something.

FAQs

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

You can use "defining characteristic of" to highlight a key attribute or feature that distinguishes something. For instance, "The "defining characteristic of" jazz is improvisation."

What are some alternatives to "defining characteristic of"?

Alternatives include "distinguishing feature of", "key attribute of", or ""hallmark of depending on the context"."

Is it redundant to say "defining characteristic of"?

While "characteristic" itself implies a defining quality, using "defining characteristic of" can add emphasis and clarity, especially when contrasting it with other less significant traits.

What is the difference between "defining characteristic of" and "feature of"?

"Feature of" is a more general term for any attribute, while "defining characteristic of" specifies a key attribute that is essential to the nature or identity of something.