largely characterized by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "largely characterized by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the main features or qualities of something, indicating that those features are predominant but not exclusive. Example: "The region is largely characterized by its diverse ecosystems and rich cultural heritage."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Ferguson's career, though marked by a range of interests in language, was largely characterized by a focus on applied linguistics.

Stanford University

-- The hearing itself, though, was largely characterized by a messy and, at times, absurd argument over process and precedent.

The Washington Post

The Uruguayan landscape is largely characterized by gently rolling land, with an average elevation of about 383 feet (117 metres).

Encyclopedia Britannica

In both countries public engagement is largely characterized by perceptions of insufficient information, and insufficient influence on the process.

Land Use Policy

Sherborne is largely characterized by its abundance of elderly, wealthy and well-educated inhabitants, many of whom held high-powered jobs in the City before retirement.

Independent

Despite its central location in the region -- it is the main transfer point for the Bay Area Rapid Transit system -- it was also largely characterized by deteriorating buildings and failing stores.

The New York Times

Initial reactions from the academic community were largely characterized by resistance based on personal, political and philosophical grounds (Collini, 2011; Clegg, 2008; Frodeman, 2017; Oancea, 2010; 2013; Watermeyer, 2014, 2016; Chubb and Watermeyer, 2016; Donovan, 2017; Chubb et al., 2017).

Nature

The B.J.P. would do better to look to the example of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose years as prime minister from 1998 to 2004 were largely characterized by a consensual approach to governing.

The New York Times

A master of strict Welsh metres, he was also highly accomplished at blank verse; he published a considerable body of work, largely characterized by a mystical and melancholy tone.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The borders of Kosovo are largely mountainous, characterized by sharp peaks and narrow valleys.

Britannica

The development of steel sheetpiling over the years has largely been characterized by the increasing weight and stiffness of the sections available from the rolling mills.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "largely characterized by", ensure that the characteristics you highlight are genuinely the most prominent or defining features, not just minor aspects.

Common error

Avoid using "largely characterized by" when describing something with diverse or equally weighted characteristics. It's misleading to suggest dominance if it's not clearly the case.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "largely characterized by" functions as a descriptive phrase, highlighting the most prominent or significant qualities of a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. It helps to define the essence of something by focusing on its key attributes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "largely characterized by" is a versatile phrase used to describe the primary features or qualities of a subject. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It finds frequent use in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts, making it suitable for formal and neutral registers. When using this phrase, ensure that the characteristics highlighted are indeed the most prominent, avoiding overstatements or generalizations. Consider alternatives like "primarily defined by" or "mainly distinguished by" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primarily defined by

This alternative emphasizes definition over characterization, suggesting a more rigid boundary.

mainly distinguished by

This highlights the unique or notable aspects that differentiate something.

predominantly marked by

Focuses on the most noticeable or prevalent features.

generally identified by

This suggests common recognition based on certain traits.

chiefly known for

This points to the most famous or recognized attribute.

mostly recognized for

This phrase is very similar to "chiefly known for", but has a higher focus on recognition and awareness.

typically associated with

This connects something to commonly linked attributes.

commonly attributed to

This alternative emphasizes attribution of quality to something.

largely shaped by

This focuses on the forces or factors that have significantly influenced something.

significantly influenced by

This suggests a major impact or effect on the subject.

FAQs

How can I use "largely characterized by" in a sentence?

Use "largely characterized by" to describe the most prominent features or qualities of something. For example, "The region is largely characterized by its mountainous terrain".

What's a good alternative to "largely characterized by"?

You can use alternatives like "primarily defined by", "mainly distinguished by", or "predominantly marked by" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "largely characterized by" in formal writing?

Yes, "largely characterized by" is appropriate for formal writing, including academic and professional contexts. It's a clear and precise way to describe prominent features.

What is the difference between "largely characterized by" and "wholly characterized by"?

"Largely characterized by" indicates that the features described are predominant but not exclusive, while "wholly characterized by" implies that those features are the only defining traits. "Largely" suggests a degree of flexibility or the presence of other, less significant characteristics.