greatness of character

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "greatness of character" is correct and usable in written English.
It typically refers to moral or ethical qualities, and is often used when describing heroic or admirable people. For example, "His greatness of character was never more evident than when he selflessly gave his own food to a hungry stranger."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Much like athletes whose physical discomfort (training) triggers physical improvement, the stoics believe that we develop strength of character, emotional endurance, and resiliency through suffering; and that only great struggles produce greatness of character.

Huffington Post

Wall, for his part, is smitten unapologetically by the doctor-father's greatness of character and detects, "beneath the brilliant, educated surface" of his mind, "the same tension, between explicit impersonality and unspoken compassion [that] animates the mature style of his son".

The New Yorker

It stood for respect for the law, defence of all rights, greatness of character: it was love".

Wikipedia

The funeral epitaph stated that "his 'mafia' was not criminal, but stood for respect of the law, defense of all rights, greatness of character.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Then their quotations diverge: Shenk goes on to describe the "secret sorrow" that the tribesman saw in Lincoln's features; Goodwin relates Tolstoy's comment that Lincoln's "supremacy expresses itself altogether in his peculiar moral power and in the greatness of his character".

The New Yorker

Tragedy — which yokes its grand tone to the greatness of its characters and situations, putting large-scale history on the line — comes with a degree of awe built in.

The New Yorker

And it was at this moment, when he went, in effect, into opposition, that the true greatness of Kennan's character emerged.

The New York Times - Books

Ayman al-Zawahiri heard again and again about the greatness of Qutb's character and the terrible things he endured in prison.

The New Yorker

And in every frame, you can see and you can love the depth of greatness -- of the character and the actor.

Huffington Post

Wealth springs myriad opportunities and can inspire greatness in those who have the strength of character.

Independent

Not only did he use grace, charm, wit and indomitable optimism, he used his strength of character to convey the greatness of America.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "greatness of character" when you want to emphasize that someone's character isn't just good, but exceptionally admirable and influential.

Common error

Don't use "greatness of character" when describing ordinary decent behavior. Reserve it for truly exceptional moral strength and integrity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "greatness of character" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a high degree of moral excellence and integrity. Ludwig's examples illustrate how it's used to describe admirable qualities in individuals.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Encyclopedias

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "greatness of character" is a grammatically correct noun phrase that signifies exceptional moral strength and integrity. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, it's relatively rare, appearing primarily in news and media or encyclopedic contexts. It is most suitable when describing truly remarkable moral qualities, distinguishing itself from simple 'good character'. Consider alternatives like "strength of character" or "moral strength" depending on the specific context. Reserve its use for individuals or entities exhibiting extraordinary admirable and influential behavior.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strength of character

Emphasizes the resilience and fortitude in one's personality.

exemplary character

Stresses that the character is a paragon of virtue.

moral strength

Focuses specifically on the strength of one's morals.

noble character

Indicates a character marked by high ideals and integrity.

ethical fortitude

Highlights the courage and resilience in adhering to ethical principles.

uprightness

Focuses on the honesty and moral integrity of a person.

moral fiber

Refers to the inherent moral qualities of a person.

moral excellence

Emphasizes the superior quality of one's moral attributes.

high moral standards

Highlights the elevated principles that guide one's behavior.

virtuous nature

Highlights the inherent goodness and moral purity of an individual.

FAQs

How can I use "greatness of character" in a sentence?

You might say, "The leader's "greatness of character" inspired his followers to persevere through difficult times".

What's a good alternative to "greatness of character"?

Depending on the context, you could use "moral strength", "strength of character", or "ethical fortitude".

Is "greatness of character" a common phrase?

While grammatically correct, "greatness of character" is not as frequently used as simpler phrases like "good character" or "strength of character".

What distinguishes "greatness of character" from "good character"?

"Greatness of character" implies an exceptional level of moral strength and integrity, whereas "good character" simply suggests a generally positive moral disposition.