primary attribute

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "primary attribute" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the main characteristic or quality of something, often in contexts like data analysis, programming, or descriptive writing. Example: "The primary attribute of this software is its user-friendly interface, which enhances the overall user experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

"Reputation is the primary attribute of commercial relationships," he writes.

The New York Times

You could say that singing about yourself is the primary attribute of popular music, the quality that makes pop pop.

The New Yorker

As with Cotchery, though, Cruz had as a primary attribute his ability to run after catching the ball.

The New York Times - Sports

Regeneration, as one aspect of the general process of growth, is a primary attribute of all living systems.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Later Confucianists who felt that loyalty was a primary attribute of the moral man have considered Feng's cavalier attitude toward those he served disgraceful.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Gregorie's primary attribute was he could translate what Edsel Ford wanted into three-dimensional designs," said Jim Farrell, a lawyer in Roseburg, Ore., who has written extensively about the history of Ford's automotive designs.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

When BBC commentator Christine Still described Simone Biles has "having pretty much everything," style was one of her primary attributes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Bill Bavasi, the Mariners' general manager, said that one of Dickey's primary attributes is — of all things — his durability.

The New York Times - Sports

Now the leaders in Beijing, who have never enjoyed surprises, must contend with a man whose primary attributes, aside from a propensity for bluster, seem to be belligerence, impulsiveness, and illiteracy when it comes to foreign policy.

The New Yorker

The secretary of the state, Susan Bysiewicz, predicted that overall turnout could reach 50percentt on Tuesday, which would be a record for a statewide primary, attributing the intensity to Connecticut having moved up its contest on the calendar.

The New York Times

Dr. Brainard predicts that over the next decade or two, health benefits will come to be considered one of the primary attributes of bulbs along with energy consumption, aesthetics and brightness.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a subject, clearly identify its "primary attribute" early on to establish a focal point for your audience.

Common error

While it's important to identify the "primary attribute", don't neglect mentioning other relevant secondary attributes that provide a more complete picture. Failing to do so might result in an oversimplified or misleading description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "primary attribute" functions as a noun phrase that serves to identify and emphasize the principal or most significant quality, feature, or characteristic of a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "primary attribute" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term to denote the most important characteristic of a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It's common in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts. When using this phrase, writers should also consider mentioning relevant secondary attributes to avoid oversimplification. Alternative expressions include "key characteristic", "main feature", and "defining characteristic".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key characteristic

Focuses on the essential nature of the attribute, highlighting its importance.

main feature

Emphasizes the most prominent aspect of something.

central quality

Highlights the core characteristic that defines something.

defining characteristic

Pinpoints the attribute that uniquely identifies something.

principal trait

Stresses the leading or dominant characteristic.

chief aspect

Underscores the most important element or facet.

core element

Highlights the fundamental component.

essential aspect

Focuses on the indispensable characteristic.

fundamental property

Highlights a basic and necessary characteristic.

major attribute

Emphasizes the significant quality.

FAQs

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

You can use "primary attribute" to describe the most important characteristic of something. For example, "The "key characteristic" of this software is its ease of use."

What is an alternative to saying "primary attribute"?

Alternatives to "primary attribute" include "main feature", "central quality", or "defining characteristic", depending on the specific context.

Which is the correct way to express the main quality of an object, "primary attribute" or "main attribute"?

While both "primary attribute" and "main attribute" can be used, "primary attribute" often implies a foundational or essential quality, whereas "main attribute" simply denotes importance. The choice depends on the nuance you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "primary attribute" and "secondary attribute"?

"Primary attribute" refers to the most important and defining characteristic, while "secondary attribute" refers to other, less important but still relevant characteristics. Understanding both provides a comprehensive description.