identifying characteristics

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "identifying characteristics" is correct and often used in written English.
It refers to specific traits or features that can be used to distinguish or recognize something or someone. You can use it in various contexts, such as describing a person, object, or concept. For example: - The suspect was described as a tall man in his late 20s with identifying characteristics, such as a scar above his left eyebrow and a tattoo of a snake on his right arm. - In order to prevent counterfeiting, the new banknotes will have additional identifying characteristics, such as a holographic strip and watermarks. - The scientist was able to identify the species of butterfly based on its identifying characteristics, including the shape of its wings and the patterns on its body. - When looking for a lost pet, it's important to provide a detailed description of its identifying characteristics, such as its breed, color, and any unique markings.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Stagnation and obstruction have become its only identifying characteristics.

The New Yorker

What identifying characteristics might you be able to locate in a guide book?

The New York Times

One of the identifying characteristics is that people see themselves in it.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Attorney General John Ashcroft says the subpoenas respect patients' privacy by allowing hospitals to black out "identifying characteristics".

The New York Times

The following synopsis, based on their work, provides principal identifying characteristics of all major extant groups.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That development underscores the need for the disease centers to check identifying characteristics from reported cases to avoid duplications, Dr. McKenna said.

The New York Times - Health

About once a week for the past six months, Conte has sent an e-mail message with lists of players' identifying characteristics to Sugano and Zes.

The New York Times - Sports

The Seattle Police Department, for example, posts videos on YouTube after blurring faces, muffling voices and redacting other potentially identifying characteristics.

The New York Times

She had been dead for at least two months, so it was impossible to determine her race or other identifying characteristics, the police said.

The New York Times

Encourage students to be imaginative in their speculation, but also quiz them about what identifying characteristics on the artifacts inspire their speculations.

The New York Times

Published last year by Penguin's Riverhead Books, the book has a note on its copyright page reading: "Some names and identifying characteristics have been changed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something, be as specific as possible about the "identifying characteristics" to avoid ambiguity. Instead of saying 'the suspect was tall', say 'the suspect was approximately 6'4" with a noticeable limp'.

Common error

Avoid vague descriptors when listing "identifying characteristics". Saying 'the bird was small and brown' is less helpful than 'the bird was approximately 6 inches long with speckled brown feathers and a distinctive yellow beak'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "identifying characteristics" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where 'identifying' acts as a modifier to the noun 'characteristics'. It pinpoints particular traits helpful for distinguishing one thing from another. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and often used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "identifying characteristics" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term in English, serving to specify traits that distinguish something or someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and appropriate across various contexts. It functions as a noun phrase, with 'identifying' modifying 'characteristics', and its purpose is to provide precise details for recognition or differentiation. This phrase is found most often in News & Media and Scientific sources, indicating a neutral to formal register. When using "identifying characteristics", prioritize specific and clear descriptors to avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "distinguishing features" or "defining traits" can be considered for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinguishing features

Focuses on features that set something apart.

hallmark attributes

Emphasizes attributes that serve as a mark of quality or distinction.

defining traits

Highlights traits that are essential to the identity of something.

key identifiers

Refers to the primary aspects used to recognize or classify.

unique properties

Stresses the distinctiveness of the qualities in question.

characteristic elements

Focuses on elements that are typical or distinctive.

typical attributes

Emphasizes common or representative attributes.

diagnostic features

Highlights features used for identification or diagnosis.

recognisable traits

Focuses on traits that can be easily recognized.

distinctive qualities

Emphasizes qualities that make something different or notable.

FAQs

How do you use "identifying characteristics" in a sentence?

You can use "identifying characteristics" to describe features that distinguish something or someone. For example, "The detective focused on the "distinguishing features" of the suspect to make a positive identification".

What are some synonyms for "identifying characteristics"?

Synonyms for "identifying characteristics" include "distinguishing features", "defining traits", and "unique properties". The best choice depends on the specific context.

How can I determine the "identifying characteristics" of a plant?

To determine the "identifying characteristics" of a plant, observe its leaves, stem, flowers, and fruits. Note their shape, color, size, and arrangement. Consult a field guide for comparison.

Is it better to use "identifying characteristics" or "identification characteristics"?

"Identifying characteristics" is more commonly used and generally preferred. "Identification characteristics" /s/identification+characteristics is less frequent, although understandable, it is not as widely accepted.