not in character with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not in character with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe behavior or actions that do not align with someone's usual personality or traits. Example: "His sudden outburst was not in character with the calm demeanor he usually displays."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

This is not in character with anything we've seen before".

The New York Times

They assert that the fracking will result in "undesirable development not in character with their neighborhood".

Vice

They assert that the fracking will result in "undesirable development not in character with their neighbourhood".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

In a prewar apartment, for example, an open-concept kitchen may not be in character with the rest of the home.

The New York Times

Deputy Inspector Santo Scribani said the decision to save the facade was intended solely to ensure that the 1912 station house, though not a city landmark, remained in character with the East Village streetscape.

The New York Times

"In Character with Cate Blanchett".

WikiHow

He wasn't in character.

Huffington Post

She reiterates that the vestibular bulbs appear to be part of the clitoris and that the distal urethra and vagina are intimately related structures, although they are not erectile in character, forming a tissue cluster with the clitoris that appears to be the location of female sexual function and orgasm.

Wikipedia

For this reason it dealt occasionally with subjects not religious in character.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Easier but not yet in character.

The New York Times - Sports

"That's not in his character.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not in character with", ensure the subject's typical behavior or traits have been previously established to provide context for the deviation.

Common error

Avoid using "not in character with" to describe temporary moods or reactions; reserve it for fundamental shifts from established personality traits. For example, saying "Being quiet today is not in character with him" might be wrong if he is generally talkative but occasionally needs silence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not in character with" primarily functions as a qualifier or descriptor, indicating that a particular action, behavior, or event is inconsistent with the typical nature or established traits of a subject. Ludwig AI highlights examples where this phrase emphasizes deviations from expected norms or established personalities.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not in character with" is a useful descriptor to highlight deviations from expected behavior. Ludwig AI analysis confirms it's grammatically sound and primarily used in news and media, wiki, and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral formality. When using this phrase, ensure the subject's typical behavior is established to provide context. Common errors include applying the phrase to temporary moods instead of fundamental traits. Alternatives such as ""atypical of"" or ""uncharacteristic of"" can offer nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

out of character for

This alternative directly highlights behavior that is not aligned with someone's personality.

atypical of

This alternative emphasizes the deviation from a standard pattern or type.

uncharacteristic of

This alternative focuses on the lack of usual traits or qualities.

not typical of

This alternative stresses the absence of common or usual traits.

inconsistent with

This alternative points to a lack of harmony or agreement with expected behavior.

not in line with

This phrase indicates a lack of alignment or agreement with a set of principles or behaviors.

not in keeping with

This option indicates that something is not aligned or consistent with expectations or standards.

deviating from

This option highlights the act of straying away from established norms or expectations.

contrary to

This alternative suggests a direct opposition to expected behavior.

unlike

A simple alternative indicating a difference from usual behavior.

FAQs

What does "not in character with" mean?

The phrase "not in character with" describes an action or behavior that is inconsistent with a person's typical personality, habits, or established nature.

How can I use "not in character with" in a sentence?

You can use "not in character with" to point out a deviation from someone's normal behavior, such as, "His sudden outburst was "out of character for" his usually calm demeanor."

What are some alternatives to "not in character with"?

Alternatives include "atypical of", "uncharacteristic of", or "inconsistent with", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "not in character with"?

Use "not in character with" when you want to highlight a surprising or unexpected action that does not align with someone's known traits. It suggests a departure from what is considered normal for that individual.