key attribute

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key attribute" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an important characteristic or feature of something, often in contexts like business, technology, or analysis. Example: "The key attribute of this software is its user-friendly interface, which enhances productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Still, Stephen's key attribute is his versatility.

The New York Times - Arts

Another key attribute is a capacity to defer gratification.

The Guardian

Another key attribute of the polymer is its structure.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This value proposition is currently the key attribute that cable and telecommunication operators provide.

The Guardian

Clearly, a key attribute for inspectors is the ability to ask pertinent questions.

The Guardian - Money

Lots of them now offer courses on ethics, surely a key attribute of professionalism.

The Economist

But for full-time chamber groups, consistent chemistry is a key attribute.

The New York Times - Arts

A key attribute when he was appointed captain of South Africa was that he had never met Hansie Cronje.

The Guardian - Sport

But the reaction of business, at a local and corporate level, points to the way diversity and tolerance is now considered a key attribute.

The Guardian

The key attribute required of a Top Gear presenter is unerring devotion to the idea of the car as history's most perfect vehicle.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Talking an inspirational game is, it would seem, a key attribute for a contemporary film-maker, and Vinterberg is something of a master at it.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a subject, clearly state the "key attribute" early to set the focus for your analysis. This helps your audience quickly understand what you consider most important.

Common error

Avoid labeling a commonly understood feature as a "key attribute" without providing specific justification. For instance, stating that "reliability is a key attribute of a car" is less impactful than explaining how a particular car achieves superior reliability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key attribute" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "key" modifies "attribute." It acts as a subject complement, direct object, or appositive, identifying a significant characteristic. This aligns with Ludwig AI's analysis confirming the phrase's correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

47%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "key attribute" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase that pinpoints the most important characteristics of a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s suitable for various contexts, though especially prevalent in news, scientific, and formal business writing. To enhance clarity, be specific when identifying a "key attribute", and avoid stating the obvious without justification. Alternative phrases like ""essential characteristic"" or ""primary feature"" can add nuance, but "key attribute" remains a robust and versatile choice for emphasizing significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

essential characteristic

Replaces "key" with "essential", emphasizing necessity.

primary feature

Substitutes "attribute" with "feature", focusing on a notable aspect.

fundamental quality

Changes "key" to "fundamental" and "attribute" to "quality", stressing basic nature.

critical aspect

Replaces "attribute" with "aspect" and emphasizes the importance of the feature.

defining trait

Highlights the characteristic that defines something.

central element

Focuses on the core component or factor.

major component

Emphasizes the significance of the part.

important property

Uses "property" instead of "attribute", indicating a specific characteristic.

significant factor

Highlights the impact of the element.

core characteristic

Highlights the basic and essential nature of the feature.

FAQs

How can I use "key attribute" in a sentence?

Use "key attribute" to highlight the most important feature or characteristic of something. For example, "The "key attribute" of this software is its user-friendly interface".

What is a good alternative to "key attribute"?

Alternatives include "essential characteristic", "primary feature", or "fundamental quality", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "key essential attribute"?

Yes, using both "key" and "essential" is redundant because they both emphasize importance. Choose either ""key attribute"" or "essential attribute" to avoid unnecessary repetition.

What's the difference between "key attribute" and "minor attribute"?

"Key attribute" refers to the most important or defining characteristic, while "minor attribute" refers to a less significant or secondary characteristic. Using ""key attribute"" focuses attention on what matters most.