his character

USAGE SUMMARY

'his character' is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone's unchangeable moral, mental, or ethical qualities. For example, "John's kindheartedness is a testament to his character."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They disparaged his character.

The New York Times

His character?

The New York Times

His character was hard.

The New York Times

His character is likeable.

The New Yorker

That was his character.

Independent

His character was unbalanced.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But what of his character?

Independent

The jet epitomised his character.

Independent

Quotes Turner praising his character.

The New Yorker

Does his character ever change?

The New York Times - Magazine

His character is entirely situational".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "his character" when you want to discuss someone's consistent moral and ethical qualities, rather than fleeting behaviors or opinions.

Common error

Avoid using "his character" when you actually mean "his reputation". Character refers to inherent qualities, while reputation is the perception others have, which can be misleading or undeserved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "his character" functions primarily as a noun phrase acting as the subject or object of a sentence, indicating someone's essential moral or ethical qualities. As Ludwig AI highlights, this usage is considered grammatically sound and commonly found in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "his character" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that denotes someone's moral and ethical qualities. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a proper expression in written English. Its usage spans various contexts, notably in news, media, and encyclopedias, revealing its significance in describing and evaluating individuals. When using the phrase, it's vital to differentiate it from related terms like "his reputation", and consider using synonyms like "his integrity" or "his nature" to fine-tune your meaning. Remember that "his character" relates to his inherent qualities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

his personality

This alternative emphasizes someone's behavioral traits and mannerisms, encompassing a broader range than just moral qualities.

his moral compass

This phrase specifically highlights his internal sense of right and wrong, focusing on ethical guidance.

his integrity

This focuses specifically on honesty and strong moral principles.

his nature

This refers to the inherent qualities and disposition, which may not be entirely within his control.

his ethical standing

This emphasizes his adherence to moral principles as judged by others.

his disposition

This refers to someone's inherent qualities of mind and character

his defining traits

This captures the most noticeable and significant aspects of his personality.

his true self

This highlights the genuine, unfiltered version of his personality, contrasting with any presented facade.

his inner being

This delves into the core of his personality, suggesting deeper, less obvious aspects.

his moral fiber

This relates to the inherent strength and resilience of his moral principles.

FAQs

How can I describe someone's "his character" in a positive way?

You could say he is known for his integrity, compassion, or unwavering principles. Use specific examples to illustrate these qualities and provide context to your claim.

What is the difference between "his character" and his personality?

"His character" refers primarily to moral and ethical qualities, while personality encompasses a broader range of traits, including behavioral patterns, mannerisms, and emotional tendencies.

What are some synonyms for "his character"?

Depending on the context, you could use synonyms such as "his integrity", "his moral compass", "his nature", or "his disposition".

Is it appropriate to use "his character" in formal writing?

Yes, "his character" is appropriate for formal writing, as it is a standard and widely understood term. Ensure that the context and tone are consistent with the overall formality of the piece.