desirable attribute

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "desirable attribute" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing qualities or characteristics that are considered favorable or advantageous in a person, object, or situation. Example: "Honesty is a desirable attribute in a leader, as it fosters trust and respect among team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

The desire to be informed and participate in decision making, will be a desirable attribute in the context of ESRD, and its measurement reflects actual patient preferences.

BMC Nephrology

In the nineties, as now, virtuosity was not a particularly desirable attribute.

The New Yorker

In one poll last year, Americans rated military experience the most desirable attribute in a president.

The Economist

These guide telescopes have low magnification and a wide field of view, the latter being a desirable attribute for finding stars or other remote cosmic objects.

Encyclopedia Britannica

May can do this because wearing interesting clothes is at last a legitimate – maybe even a desirable – attribute for women in power, and she can take some of the credit for that.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But while people may say that they prefer products labelled with some desirable attribute, a growing body of research calls into question whether people's behaviors fall in line with their intentions.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Cleanliness and other desirable attributes are linked in the Japanese language, as are their opposites.

The Economist

A recent list of desirable attributes in NASA astronauts includes empathy, fairness and a good sense of humor.

The New York Times

Actions need to be promoted and communicated, however, so that the desirable attributes or traits become a central part of the brand's reputation.

The Guardian

According to the survey, the most desirable attributes in a head coach were good communication skills, followed by motivational skills, approachability, management skills and leading by example.

The New York Times

But even if that plant acquires the trait of blight resistance, it will likely pick up several other, less desirable attributes, such as a low yield of fruit.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing qualities of a product or person, use "desirable attribute" to clearly indicate a beneficial characteristic. For example, 'Durability is a "desirable attribute" in outdoor equipment'.

Common error

Avoid using "desirable attribute" too frequently in informal writing. It can sound stilted. Opt for simpler synonyms like "good quality" or "plus" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "desirable attribute" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "desirable" modifies the noun "attribute". According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, frequently appearing to describe qualities considered advantageous.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "desirable attribute" is a grammatically sound and commonly used term for highlighting advantageous qualities, as confirmed by Ludwig. Predominantly found in scientific, news, and formal contexts, it effectively conveys value and benefit. While versatile, it's advisable to use simpler alternatives like "good quality" in more informal settings to maintain a natural tone. Ludwig examples confirm that this phrase is useful when you need to communicate that one thing or another has appealing characteristics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

advantageous characteristic

Replaces 'desirable' with 'advantageous', emphasizing the benefit provided by the characteristic.

favorable quality

Uses 'favorable' instead of 'desirable', highlighting the positive aspect of the quality.

beneficial feature

Substitutes 'attribute' with 'feature', focusing on a notable aspect that provides a benefit.

valuable asset

Replaces both words to frame the attribute as something highly prized and useful.

positive trait

Uses 'positive' to emphasize the good nature and 'trait' as an inherent quality.

preferred characteristic

Emphasizes choice and liking, making the attribute something that is favored.

sought-after quality

Highlights that the quality is in demand and actively pursued.

attractive feature

Focuses on the appeal and attractiveness of the feature.

welcome addition

Presents the attribute as something that improves or enhances a situation.

meritorious aspect

Indicates that the aspect is worthy of praise and recognition.

FAQs

How can I use "desirable attribute" in a sentence?

You can use "desirable attribute" to describe a positive characteristic that something or someone possesses. For example, 'Flexibility is a "desirable attribute" in employees working in dynamic environments'.

What are some alternatives to "desirable attribute"?

You can use alternatives like "advantageous characteristic", "favorable quality", or "valuable asset" depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "highly desirable attribute"?

While "desirable" already implies something positive, using "highly desirable attribute" can emphasize the importance or significance of the attribute in certain contexts. However, use it sparingly to avoid redundancy.

What is the difference between "desirable attribute" and "essential attribute"?

"Desirable attribute" refers to a characteristic that is beneficial and adds value, while "essential attribute" refers to a characteristic that is absolutely necessary or indispensable. An essential attribute is required, while a "desirable attribute" is simply advantageous.