distinguishing trait

USAGE SUMMARY

'distinguishing trait' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a feature or characteristic that sets someone or something apart from others. For example: "The adventurous spirit was her most distinguishing trait."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Like Ms. Giddish, Mr. Bishop doesn't have much to work with: his character's only distinguishing trait so far is grief over his wife's death.

The New York Times - Arts

A second distinguishing trait is the money involved, which not only sustains the families left behind but props up national economies.

The New York Times

These two forms both assume the production of social impact, i.e. impact on society, the environment and sustainable development, as a distinguishing trait from commercial financial approaches, but differ in terms of business models and products and services provided to customers.

Journal of Cleaner Production

The use of the real live project manager is a crucial distinguishing trait, since that person shoulders the screening and hiring of managers, as well as setting milestones and making sure they're complete.

TechCrunch

It seems that it could find no positive distinguishing trait for air, and thus reverted to the older style of definition.

SEP

But it's true that his warm baritone gravel is a distinguishing trait.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Iconic structure implied spiritual order, one of Mr. Barnet's distinguishing traits.

The New York Times - Arts

Among his distinguishing traits are a seemingly effortless form and a tendency to whimsically twist and wind and, as he put it, run 60 yards to gain 20.

The New York Times - Sports

The distinguishing traits of the NEGOI architecture are discussed together with results of tests concerning its view-independence and grip-aperture recognition properties.

Brain Research

One of the distinguishing traits of the prime modern jazz musicians, whether Coltrane or Coleman, Miles Davis or Cecil Taylor, is that their musical ideas aren't limited to their solos and their compositions.

The New Yorker

To Mr. Lee, one of the distinguishing traits of "The Royle Family" is the abiding affection that underlies the teasing and taunting, a warmth that is counter to the brittleness and cynicism that are mainstays of British humor.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person's personality, use "distinguishing trait" to emphasize a quality that makes them stand out. For example: "Her empathy was her most distinguishing trait."

Common error

While "distinguishing trait" is versatile, avoid overusing it in formal academic papers. Opt for synonyms like "defining characteristic" or "key differentiator" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinguishing trait" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes a specific attribute or feature that sets something or someone apart from others. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

38%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "distinguishing trait" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that refers to a unique attribute or feature. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for written English and frequently appears in news, scientific, and encyclopedia articles. When writing, be mindful of the context. While versatile, you might consider synonyms like "defining characteristic" in more formal settings. The phrase is generally neutral in register, making it appropriate for various writing styles. Remember to use this phrase to highlight unique and notable qualities that set your subject apart.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defining characteristic

Focuses on the characteristic that defines something, implying a core or essential attribute.

unique attribute

Highlights the uniqueness of the attribute, emphasizing that it's not commonly found elsewhere.

identifying feature

Stresses the role of the feature in identifying or recognizing something.

hallmark quality

Suggests that the quality is a signature or a prominent characteristic associated with something.

signature characteristic

Implies a characteristic that is strongly associated and easily recognizable.

distinctive feature

Emphasizes the feature's ability to distinguish something from others.

defining attribute

Highlights that attribute's role to define the element, something that cannot be missed.

characteristic property

Slightly more formal, referring to a property that is typical and helps identify something.

singular quality

Emphasizes the uniqueness and exceptional nature of the quality.

key differentiator

Highlights what sets one thing apart from others, especially in a competitive context.

FAQs

How can I use "distinguishing trait" in a sentence?

"Distinguishing trait" refers to a characteristic that sets something or someone apart. For example, "The "distinguishing trait" of this flower is its unique fragrance."

What can I say instead of "distinguishing trait"?

You can use alternatives like "defining characteristic", "unique attribute", or "identifying feature" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "distinguishing trait" or "distinguished trait"?

"Distinguishing trait" is correct when you want to emphasize that this trait helps to set something apart. "Distinguished trait" is incorrect. "Distinguished" can refer to someone who has achieved great success and is admired by many people.

What's the difference between "distinguishing trait" and "defining characteristic"?

While both are similar, "defining characteristic" often implies a fundamental aspect that is essential to the identity of something, whereas "distinguishing trait" simply sets something apart without necessarily being fundamental.