principal features

USAGE SUMMARY

"principal features" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to the main or most important characteristics or elements of something. You can use it when describing the main characteristics or distinguishing components of something. For example: "The new car model boasts several principal features that set it apart from its competitors." "The principal features of the research project include a large sample size and a randomized control group." "Jane's presentation highlighted the principal features of the company's new product line."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The principal features of a cyclotron are a magnetic field and radio frequency.

The New Yorker

The principal features of Australia's climate stem from its position, shape, and size.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Centralization and heavy agrarian taxation were the principal features of ʿAlāʾ al-Dīn's rule.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The principal features of a horse's mentality are acute powers of observation, innate timidity, and a good memory.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It's a little ironic, given that one of the principal features of this particular commission is to ensure that everyone has the right to vote".

The New York Times

No one expected it to be comprehensible at first glance and the two teams have so far mapped only the principal features of its terrain.

The New York Times

Johnson-Sirleaf says that she considers the principal features of Charles Taylor's leadership to be "corruption, misappropriation, ostentation, oversized security, and self-aggrandizement".

The New Yorker

Intent on lifting martial law by the first anniversary of the coup, it was determined to institutionalize most of the principal features into civil law before that date.

The New Yorker

Some of the principal features of upper-class Hindu and Muslim dress and the history of their development can, however, be sketched briefly.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The principal features of Samarkand's ancient buildings are their splendid portals, their vast coloured domes, and their remarkable exterior decorations in majolica, mosaic, marble, and gold.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The principal features on which classification of the Holostei is based include general body shape, scale structure, and the number and placement of head bones.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something complex, start by outlining the "principal features" to give your audience a clear overview before diving into details.

Common error

Avoid getting bogged down in minor or secondary characteristics before establishing the "principal features". Prioritize clarity and overall understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "principal features" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies and highlights the most important characteristics or aspects of a particular subject, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

18%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "principal features" is a commonly used phrase to denote the most important and defining characteristics of something. Grammatically sound and versatile, it's found across diverse contexts, especially in scientific, encyclopedic, and news media. As Ludwig highlights, the phrase aims to inform and describe, providing a foundational understanding of complex subjects. To use it effectively, prioritize clarity and avoid focusing on minor details before establishing these key aspects. Consider alternatives such as "main characteristics" or "key aspects" for nuanced phrasing. Ludwig AI's analysis underscores its correctness and widespread applicability in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main characteristics

Focuses on describing the primary attributes or qualities of something.

key aspects

Emphasizes the most important elements or facets of a topic.

major components

Highlights the essential parts or building blocks of something.

primary elements

Stresses the foundational or fundamental parts of a subject.

core attributes

Points to the essential qualities that define something.

defining traits

Highlights the specific characteristics that distinguish something.

significant properties

Emphasizes the important qualities or features of something.

essential qualities

Focuses on the indispensable characteristics of a subject.

chief elements

Highlights the leading or most important components.

central aspects

Focuses on the core or pivotal parts of a subject.

FAQs

How can I use "principal features" in a sentence?

Use "principal features" to introduce the most important aspects or characteristics of something, such as "The principal features of the design include its simplicity and ease of use."

What are some alternatives to "principal features"?

You can use alternatives like "main characteristics", "key aspects", or "major components" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to use "principal features" in formal writing?

Yes, "principal features" is appropriate for formal writing and is commonly used in academic, scientific, and professional contexts.

What's the difference between "principal features" and "minor details"?

"Principal features" refer to the most important and defining characteristics, while "minor details" are less significant and peripheral aspects. Focus on the "principal features" to provide a clear overview before delving into specifics.