defining features

USAGE SUMMARY

"defining features" is an appropriate phrase and can be used in conventional written English.
For example, "The defining features of a successful relationship are trust, respect, and communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But what were Meg's defining features?

The Guardian - Books

One of the accord's defining features is its transparency.

The Guardian

But the defining features of the city are terraces.

Independent

"The defining features of nostalgia in England are also the defining features in Africa and South America," Dr. Wildschut says.

The New York Times - Science

The Scotland-England relationship has historically been one of the defining features of Scottish life.

The Guardian - Opinion

These innovations could ultimately be defining features of a great 21st-century city.

The New York Times

The whole of the borrowed work is presented, just devoid of some of its defining features.

The Guardian

But insecurity is once again one of the defining features of our age.

The Guardian - Opinion

This may sound like a small thing, but it's one of my defining features.

The Guardian

The energy and fearlessness of youth appear to be defining features of young serial entrepreneurs.

The Guardian

We meet in a beige hotel, chosen for convenience and its lack of defining features.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "defining features" to establish clear criteria or parameters in analytical or comparative contexts, ensuring a focused and effective discussion.

Common error

Avoid listing superficial or unimportant details as "defining features". Instead, focus on the elements that are central to the subject's identity and function.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defining features" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies the characteristics that are essential to understanding or categorizing a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "defining features" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression for highlighting essential characteristics. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and versatility across diverse contexts. Its primary function is to provide clarity and specificity, making it suitable for neutral and formal communication. The phrase sees frequent use in news, scientific, and encyclopedia sources. To enhance writing, focus on crucial details when using "defining features", avoiding trivial aspects to maintain clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defining attributes

Highlights specific qualities that describe or characterize something.

key characteristics

Emphasizes the most important traits or qualities.

distinctive traits

Highlights unique and recognizable aspects.

essential properties

Focuses on the necessary qualities or characteristics.

essential attributes

Focuses on the indispensable qualities of something.

characteristic elements

Emphasizes the components that make up something's character.

hallmark qualities

Suggests traits that are typical and easily recognized.

fundamental aspects

Highlights the basic or essential parts of something.

identifying markers

Focuses on features that help recognize or classify something.

core components

Focuses on the essential parts or aspects.

FAQs

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

You can use "defining features" to highlight the most important characteristics of a subject. For example, "The defining features of a successful business include innovation, customer service, and adaptability".

What are some alternatives to "defining features"?

Some alternatives include "key characteristics", "essential attributes", or "distinctive traits", depending on the specific context.

How do "defining features" differ from "typical features"?

"Defining features" refer to the essential qualities that make something what it is, while "typical features" are common but not necessarily essential. Defining features are what sets something apart and makes it uniquely identifiable.

Is it correct to say "a defining feature" or "one of the defining features"?

Both are correct depending on the context. Use "a defining feature" when discussing a single, crucial characteristic. Use "one of the defining features" when highlighting one among several important characteristics.