illustrious character

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "illustrious character" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is well-known and respected for their achievements or qualities. Example: "The illustrious character of the scientist inspired many young students to pursue careers in research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The illustrious character tenor Graham Clark is his usual vivid self, with strong performances also coming from Anna Prohaska (coloratura soprano) and Alfred Reiter (bass).

The New York Times - Arts

James Kendall Hosmer, editing Winthrop's Journal in 1908, wrote of Vane:... his heroic life and death, his services to Anglo-Saxon freedom, which make him a significant figure even to the present moment, may well be regarded as the most illustrious character who touches early New England history.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The museum's list of human and canine honorees includes the names of such illustrious characters as Flashy Sir, Isadore Hecht and Donald R. Wootten.

BBC

As can be seen, bronze has been positioned throughout the history of mankind as a depository and communicator of the values of illustrious characters, models for humanity, from Greek times until today, being filled with symbolic, historical and poetic values that lie in its physico-chemical, metallurgical and mechanical characteristics.

Heritage Science

These illustrious characters may explain why Irving's tales have been adapted for the big screen time and time again.

Huffington Post

Plutarch was unusually interested in eclipses, and his Parallel Lives, an account of the deeds and characters of illustrious Greeks and Romans, contains many references to both lunar and solar eclipses of considerable historical importance.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Spacey joins an illustrious cast of other fictional characters to be immortalized in the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery.

Vice

As captain, Olazabal, perhaps more than any of his illustrious predecessors, has the experience and character to handle it.

BBC

What makes the following list of bizarre characters in the long, illustrious tradition of the papacy fascinating is their utter humanity -- sexual, compassionate, greedy, fearful, noble, criminal and thoroughly unpredictable.

Huffington Post

Similar books followed in the Victorian era — in 1853, David W. Bartlett wrote so that readers might "imitate the character" of this "beautiful and illustrious woman".

The New Yorker

Hollywood has a long, illustrious history of casting white people for Asian characters.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "illustrious character", ensure the individual you are describing has a widely recognized and respected reputation. It's not simply about being well-known, but also about possessing admirable qualities and achievements.

Common error

Avoid using "illustrious character" to describe someone who is simply famous or well-known without having earned significant respect or admiration. The term implies a moral or professional excellence beyond mere popularity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "illustrious character" functions as a noun phrase, where "illustrious" serves as a pre-modifying adjective enhancing the noun "character". It aims to highlight the esteemed nature of the individual's personality or role.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "illustrious character" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, used to describe someone widely known and respected for their achievements. According to Ludwig, while accurate, this phrase leans toward the formal and is considered relatively rare in usage. Best practice involves reserving the term for individuals who have earned significant admiration beyond mere fame. Related alternatives include "renowned figure" or "distinguished personality".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinguished character

Highlights the notable and respected nature of the individual.

famed character

Replaces "illustrious" with a more direct synonym indicating widespread recognition.

famous character

Emphasizes the widespread recognition and renown of the individual.

eminent character

Uses a more formal synonym of "illustrious", suggesting high rank or position.

magnificent character

Replaces "illustrious" with a more general term for grandeur or impressiveness.

prominent character

Highlights the person's visibility and importance in a particular field or context.

glorious character

Substitutes "illustrious" with a word emphasizing fame and honor.

splendid character

Uses a more vivid synonym emphasizing the impressive and excellent nature of the individual.

brilliant character

Focuses on the intellectual or creative aspects of the person's distinction.

great character

Replaces "illustrious" with a simpler and broader term for importance or excellence.

FAQs

How can I use "illustrious character" in a sentence?

You can use "illustrious character" to describe someone who is well-known and respected for their achievements or qualities. For example: "The "distinguished scientist" was described as an "illustrious character" in the scientific community."

What are some alternatives to "illustrious character"?

Alternatives include "renowned figure", "distinguished personality", or "eminent individual". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "illustrious character" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "illustrious character" leans towards formal usage. In informal writing, consider simpler alternatives like "famous person" or "respected individual" depending on the context.

What qualities define an "illustrious character"?

An "illustrious character" is typically defined by a combination of outstanding achievements, admirable moral qualities, and widespread respect within their field or community. It signifies more than just fame; it suggests a lasting positive impact.