Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
it's characteristic of
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesAlternative expressions(7)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
30 human-written examples
It's characteristic of Wylie's odd paintings, populated by fantastical characters dancing across dreamlike, if not Freudian, landscapes.
News & Media
Four men are brought into being in contemporary Paris, for the purposes of the writer: they are aware of him and call him their "master", though it's characteristic of Kundera's light touch that the little meta-narrational joke is only aired once or twice, and you could easily miss it.
News & Media
This last discovery happens inside a hole dug by a convict for a power pole, and it's characteristic of Earley's method, which is not to appear to have a method: "When Uncle Zeno let go, Jim thought he was going to fall a long way, but his feet hit the ground after only a few inches.
News & Media
She said it's characteristic of Smith's new bullying manner.
News & Media
Unfortunately, it's characteristic of the Home Office's continuing hostile environment policy," said Gracie Bradley, Liberty's policy and campaigns manager.
News & Media
Yet it's characteristic of Ms. Driscoll's choreography that the seeming anarchy is built into a tight structure of recurrence.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
30 human-written examples
It's characteristics of God.
News & Media
It's divine ‑‑ it's characteristics of God that are being revealed there that people are relying on.
News & Media
Musically, it is characteristic of Williams's later songs.
News & Media
It is characteristic of children's game rhymes from ancient times to the present and of most nursery rhymes.
Encyclopedias
It's what you might expect of the city itself, with its famous warmth, but it is characteristic of the art scene too.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "it's characteristic of" to highlight a recurring pattern or quality associated with a person, group, or thing. This adds depth to your description by implying past behavior or inherent traits.
Common error
While "it's characteristic of" is versatile, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more concise alternatives like "typically" or "usually" to maintain a sophisticated tone.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "it's characteristic of" functions as a descriptor, attributing a typical or expected quality or behavior to a subject. It frames an action or trait as being in line with the established nature of the subject, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.
Frequent in
News & Media
52%
Arts
21%
Books
14%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
5%
Sports
5%
Wiki
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "it's characteristic of" is a common phrase used to describe typical or expected behaviors and qualities. As shown by Ludwig's examples, it's versatile enough for news, arts, and book contexts. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, consider using more concise alternatives in formal writing. Remember that it emphasizes recurring patterns and predictable traits, making it valuable for descriptions across various subjects.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
is typical of
Replaces "it's characteristic of" with a more direct synonym, focusing on typicality.
is indicative of
Emphasizes that something serves as a sign or indication of a particular trait.
is in keeping with
Highlights consistency with a known pattern or behavior.
aligns with
Suggests that something matches or corresponds to expectations.
is consistent with
Focuses on the steadiness and predictability of a behavior or trait.
is true to form for
Emphasizes that something is consistent with someone's established habits or style.
embodies
Suggests that something is a perfect example or representation of a quality.
epitomizes
Highlights that something is the ideal example or embodiment of a trait.
is in character for
Focuses on whether something aligns with someone's known character or personality.
is what one would expect from
Highlights predictability based on prior knowledge or experience.
FAQs
How can I use "it's characteristic of" in a sentence?
Use "it's characteristic of" to describe actions or qualities that are typical or expected of someone or something. For example, "It's characteristic of him to arrive late."
What are some alternatives to "it's characteristic of"?
You can use alternatives like "is typical of", "is indicative of", or "is consistent with" depending on the specific context.
Is "it's characteristic of" formal or informal?
"It's characteristic of" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but in highly formal writing, consider using more concise alternatives.
What does "it's characteristic of" imply about the subject?
It implies that the behavior or quality being described is a regular or predictable aspect of the subject's nature or actions.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested