notion of character

USAGE SUMMARY

'notion of character' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the ideas or qualities that make up a character in a story, play, or other work of literature. For example: "The author's use of symbolism and imagery captures the reader's attention and helps develop the characters and their notion of character."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Actually, Mamet's minimalism and his notion of character suits screenwriting.

The New Yorker

And again, that question gets at this notion of character and responsibility.

The New York Times

Ash has no notion of character and is further from any kind of wood than dejection is from exhilaration.

The New Yorker

Milch, speaking by telephone from his office in Santa Monica, Calif., will later concur with the open-ended notion of character that Hoffman is responding to.

The New York Times

In many ways, Caro's notion of character is a romantic, idealistic one, and what fuels the books is disappointment and righteousness, almost like that of a lover betrayed.

The New York Times - Magazine

C is a 1960s-style anti-novel that's fundamentally hostile to the notion of character and dramatises, or encodes, a set of ideas concerning subjectivity.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

She has noted having casting directors accept the notion of characters being both black and Welsh to be a particular problem, explaining that: "I get offered a lot of very different roles, but they're never Welsh.

Wikipedia

This type of unity is a far cry from the idea of unity inherent in our ordinary notions of character.

The New York Times

Yet all pro-sports management talks up notions of character and conduct, if only to keep fans from growing too disgusted with the massive amount of money shared among owners and players.

The New Yorker

It makes sense in a novel so patently uninterested in traditional notions of character that a machine would have the biggest heart of all -- not to mention the most exotic sexual topography.

The New York Times - Books

Among them, there may be gifted children who simply don't respond to this kind of conditioning, children whose potential can't be expressed through such narrow notions of character and success.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing character development, use "notion of character" to refer to the core beliefs, values, and motivations that drive a character's actions.

Common error

Avoid using "notion of character" when simply describing a character's traits. Instead, reserve it for discussions about the underlying concepts or beliefs that shape the character.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "notion of character" functions primarily as a noun phrase, serving to identify a concept, idea, or understanding related to the attributes and qualities that define a character. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "notion of character" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase. It is employed to delve into the fundamental ideas and beliefs shaping what a character is, particularly within the contexts of literature, film, and philosophical discussions. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness. While versatile, it's important to use the phrase precisely, reserving it for discussions about underlying concepts, not merely descriptive traits. Alternatives such as "conception of character" or "understanding of character" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Common usage appears in News & Media and Science.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conception of character

Focuses on the formation of an idea or understanding of what a character is.

understanding of character

Emphasizes a comprehensive grasp or knowledge of a character's traits and motivations.

perception of character

Highlights the way a character is viewed or interpreted by others or the audience.

sense of character

Implies an intuitive or instinctive feeling about a character's nature.

idea of character

Refers to a general concept or belief about what constitutes a character.

view of character

Highlights a specific perspective or opinion regarding a character.

concept of character

Focuses on the theoretical framework or abstract understanding of a character.

image of character

Emphasizes the representation or mental picture associated with a character.

impression of character

Highlights the effect a character has on someone, or the feeling they evoke.

theory of character

Suggests a more structured and systematic approach to understanding character.

FAQs

How can I use "notion of character" in a sentence?

You can use "notion of character" to discuss an author's underlying ideas about what constitutes a person's identity in their work. For instance, "The play explores the protagonist's evolving "notion of character" as they face moral dilemmas".

What are some alternatives to "notion of character"?

Alternatives include "conception of character", "understanding of character", and "perception of character", each emphasizing different aspects of how character is understood or viewed.

Is it more appropriate to say "idea of character" or "notion of character"?

Both "idea of character" and "notion of character" are acceptable. "Notion" often implies a more considered or developed understanding, while "idea" can be a more general concept.

How does "notion of character" relate to character development in storytelling?

"Notion of character" underlies the initial assumptions about a character, while character development illustrates how these assumptions evolve or are challenged throughout the narrative. Examining the evolving "notion of character" can reveal the core themes.