redeeming feature

USAGE SUMMARY

"redeeming feature" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a quality that compensates for something that may be considered to be a fault or deficiency. For example, "Although it has its flaws, the movie's redeeming feature is its star-studded cast."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The "great redeeming feature of poverty," George Orwell wrote after his excursions in the social gutters of Paris and London, is "the fact that it annihilates the future".

The Economist

Laura's beauty was his redeeming feature.

The New Yorker

Maybe that's Less Than Zero's redeeming feature.

The Guardian - Books

Malte Rosenfeld's nicely graded cinematography is a single redeeming feature.

The Guardian - Film

The only redeeming feature is Chris Menges's excellent photography.

The Guardian - Film

But John Self has one redeeming feature: he's funny.

The Guardian

He didn't like the dog, whose one redeeming feature was that he would sit on command.

The New Yorker

The only redeeming feature about the restaurant was the 50's memorabilia on the walls.

The New York Times - Travel

But the book has one redeeming feature: it proves how right Pascal was.

The Guardian - Books

Her real redeeming feature is her combination of peasant shrewdness and a genius for people.

The New Yorker

His sole redeeming feature was his tender speech opposing the execution of Admiral John Byng MP in 1757.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "redeeming feature", clearly identify what shortcomings it is compensating for to provide context and strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the significance of the "redeeming feature". Ensure it genuinely balances out the negative aspects rather than simply being a minor positive element.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "redeeming feature" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific, positive attribute that mitigates or compensates for negative aspects, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "redeeming feature" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to denote a positive attribute that compensates for shortcomings. As highlighted by Ludwig, it appears frequently in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly identify the negatives it is balancing. Alternatives include "compensating quality" or "saving grace". Avoid overstating its impact; the "redeeming feature" should genuinely balance out the negative aspects. With a source quality score of 91 and an expert rating of 4.5, the phrase demonstrates strong reliability and usability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compensating quality

Directly indicates a quality that balances out negative aspects.

saving grace

Implies that the quality is essential for preventing failure or complete negativity.

positive aspect

Focuses on a general positive element, without necessarily implying compensation.

best attribute

Focuses on the most positive aspect.

valuable attribute

Highlights the worth or usefulness of a particular characteristic.

strong point

Highlights a particular area of strength.

chief merit

Emphasizes the primary positive quality.

single advantage

Highlights one positive element where others may be lacking.

unique selling point

Highlights a factor that differentiates from similar offers/items.

only good thing

Suggests that nearly everything else is bad, but this one aspect is positive.

FAQs

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

Use "redeeming feature" to point out a positive aspect that compensates for flaws. For instance, "The film's slow pace was balanced by its "redeeming feature": the stunning visuals."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "redeeming feature"?

Depending on the context, consider using alternatives like "compensating quality", "saving grace", or "positive aspect".

Is it correct to say "redeeming features" instead of "redeeming feature"?

Yes, using "redeeming features" is correct when referring to multiple positive aspects that compensate for flaws. For instance, "The app lacked functionality but had some "redeeming features", such as its user-friendly interface and excellent customer support."

How does "redeeming feature" differ from "key strength"?

"Redeeming feature" implies compensation for weaknesses, while "key strength" simply highlights a positive attribute without necessarily acknowledging shortcomings. A "key strength" is a general advantage; a "redeeming feature" specifically balances out negatives.