physical feature

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'physical feature' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to a physical characteristic or detail of a person or object, such as eye color, height, or shape. For example: She had striking physical features, including long curly hair and bright blue eyes.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The frozen Arctic is like a large physical feature.

The Guardian - Opinion

Spock's defining physical feature, though, was his pointed ears.

The Guardian

THE most notable physical feature of the home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra is plainness.

The New York Times - Arts

But their most amazing physical feature was inside their bodies, researchers say.

The New York Times - Health

London's most striking physical feature is the absence of a grand road layout.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They would wigwag at an Aboriginal, seeking to learn the name of some particular place or physical feature.

The New York Times - Books

It's not uncommon for him to start building an idea for a photograph around a single physical feature.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Physical features: check.

The New York Times

It has new physical features, a new beauty, new capacities.

The New Yorker

Three kinds of physical features characterize the terrain.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The physical features of Tierra del Fuego are varied.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing geographical locations or objects, use "physical feature" to refer to tangible elements like mountains, rivers, or buildings.

Common error

Avoid using "physical feature" when you actually mean a personality trait. "Physical feature" refers to tangible characteristics, not intangible qualities like kindness or intelligence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "physical feature" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a tangible attribute or characteristic that can be observed or measured, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

23%

Science

22%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "physical feature" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe a tangible, observable characteristic of a person, place, or object. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across a variety of contexts, from news and media to scientific literature and encyclopedias. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, more formal sources such as academic texts and encyclopedias use it frequently. The phrase's primary function is to describe or identify, helping to highlight specific attributes. When using this phrase, avoid confusing it with personality traits and remember that alternatives like "bodily characteristic" or "distinguishing attribute" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bodily characteristic

Focuses specifically on the body, implying a trait or aspect of the body.

distinguishing attribute

Highlights the quality that sets something or someone apart from others.

notable characteristic

Emphasizes the quality that is easily observed or remembered.

defining trait

Indicates a quality that is essential to the identity of something or someone.

salient feature

Highlights a feature that is particularly noticeable or important.

identifying mark

Suggests a feature that helps in recognizing or distinguishing something or someone.

key aspect

Emphasizes an important part or element of something.

noticeable quality

Focuses on a trait that is easily observed.

distinctive element

Suggests a unique component or aspect that sets something apart.

peculiar attribute

Implies an unusual or unique characteristic.

FAQs

How can I use "physical feature" in a sentence?

You can use "physical feature" to describe a notable characteristic of a person, object, or place. For example, "Her most striking "physical feature" was her radiant copper hair" or "The dominant "physical feature" of the region is the mountain range".

What are some synonyms for "physical feature"?

Alternatives for "physical feature" include "bodily characteristic", "distinguishing attribute", or "salient feature", depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "physical feature" to describe personality?

No, "physical feature" refers to tangible, observable characteristics. Use terms like "personality trait" or "character quality" to describe someone's personality instead.

What's the difference between "physical feature" and "characteristic"?

"Characteristic" is a broader term that can refer to both tangible and intangible qualities. "Physical feature" specifically refers to tangible, observable aspects like height, color, or shape.