is the defining characteristic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is the defining characteristic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a feature or quality that is essential to the identity or nature of something. Example: "For many artists, creativity is the defining characteristic of their work."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

However, while poverty as a self-defining concept may not have achieved paradigmatic status, it is the defining characteristic of the population with 49% under the poverty line.

Pastoralism

I don't think location is the defining characteristic of my work.

The Guardian - Film

The sense of dual motives and deferred desires is the defining characteristic of the occupation movie.

The Guardian - Film

This gesture, I think, is the defining characteristic of the professional chef as opposed to the home cook.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

That sort of porosity is the defining characteristic of myth – and Holmes did indeed almost instantly become a myth.

The Guardian - Books

Griffin speaks, possibly even dreams, in a separate political language, in which race is the defining characteristic of everything.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

"I believe transparency will come to be the defining characteristic of future public policy," he said.

The Guardian

"We have to stop thinking of age as the defining characteristic in this – it's frailty that's the defining characteristic".

The Guardian

Foucault predicted that this condition of visible, unverifiable power, in which individuals have internalized the idea that they may always be under surveillance, would be the defining characteristic of the modern age.

The New York Times - Magazine

Leo F. Klagholz, the former state commissioner of education, said in an interview that fragmentation was the defining characteristic of New Jersey's school problems, along with a powerful teachers' union, the New Jersey Education Association, which guards members' rights jealously.

The New York Times

Unity has been the defining characteristic of these difficult days following Fabrice Muamba's cardiac arrest at Tottenham on 17 March.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is the defining characteristic", ensure that the characteristic you're highlighting is indeed the most crucial or distinguishing feature of the subject. Avoid using it for minor or secondary attributes.

Common error

Avoid using "is the defining characteristic" when describing a feature that is merely significant but not fundamentally essential. Overusing this phrase can weaken its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is the defining characteristic" functions as a predicate nominative, linking the subject to a noun phrase that identifies its most crucial attribute. Ludwig confirms that this usage is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

25%

News & Media

55%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is the defining characteristic" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to emphasize the most crucial or distinguishing attribute of a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It commonly appears in news, media, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure that the attribute truly represents the subject's core essence. Alternatives like "is the hallmark" or "is the essential feature" can provide nuanced variations. Be careful not to overstate the importance of a feature when using this phrase. In future public policy, transparency "will come to be" the defining characteristic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is the essential feature

This alternative stresses the indispensable nature of a characteristic.

is the core element

Highlights that a characteristic forms the foundation or most vital part.

is the most important trait

This alternative specifies a characteristic that is of utmost significance.

is the key attribute

This phrase emphasizes that a particular attribute is crucial or essential.

is the distinctive quality

This alternative highlights a quality that sets something apart.

is the hallmark

This alternative highlights a distinctive or prominent feature.

is what sets it apart

This emphasizes the characteristic that distinguishes something from others.

is the central aspect

This phrase focuses on the most important or fundamental element.

is the prime element

This option underscores the primary or most important element.

is the essence

This phrase suggests that a characteristic represents the core or fundamental nature.

FAQs

How can I use "is the defining characteristic" in a sentence?

Use "is the defining characteristic" to emphasize the most crucial attribute of something. For instance, "For many artists, creativity "is the defining characteristic" of their work."

What are some alternatives to "is the defining characteristic"?

Alternatives include "is the hallmark", "is the essential feature", or "is the key attribute" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "is a defining characteristic" instead of "is the defining characteristic"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "is the defining characteristic" implies that it is the single most important attribute, while "is a defining characteristic" suggests it's one of several important attributes.

What's the difference between "is the defining characteristic" and "is a characteristic feature"?

"Is the defining characteristic" emphasizes the most crucial and distinguishing attribute, while "is a characteristic feature" simply points out a typical or notable trait without necessarily being the most important one.