salient characteristic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "salient characteristic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a prominent or important feature of something, often in discussions or analyses. Example: "One salient characteristic of the new software is its user-friendly interface, which enhances productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Their geographical and economic isolation is surely their salient characteristic.

The Economist

Lightness of touch is not the salient characteristic of this politically indignant deconstruction of L. Frank Baum's "Oz" tales.

The New York Times

His other salient characteristic as a comic is his flamboyant self-love, but that was absent here, too.

The Guardian

He agrees with Mr. Schauer that discrimination is not always negative, it simply denotes paying attention to some salient characteristic.

The New York Times - Books

WHEN Roberto Mangabeira Unger looks at Brazil, the country of his birth, he sees a "big, seething caldron of life, whose most salient characteristic is its vitality".

The New York Times

Arrogance is often cited as his most salient characteristic, with litigiousness, which cost him royal and church patronage and made him dependent on private patrons, a close second.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

One of their salient characteristics is that they are obstinate.

The Guardian

In her column today, Katharine Q. Seelye writes about one of Hillary Rodham Clinton's most salient characteristics: "soldiering on".

The New York Times

The lies broadcast on Belgrade television for years reflected one of the most salient characteristics of the Milosevic personality - mendacity.

The Guardian

The salient characteristics of monastic dress have always been sobriety and conservatism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Though Monica could frighten strong men and reduce typists to tears, her salient characteristics were warmth and a passion for architecture.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "salient characteristic" to clearly identify the most important or noticeable feature of a subject when you want to emphasize its significance.

Common error

While "salient characteristic" is appropriate for formal writing, avoid it in casual conversation where simpler terms like "main feature" or "key trait" sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "salient characteristic" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a particularly noticeable or important attribute. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "salient characteristic" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed term, especially in formal contexts such as news, science, and academic writing. As Ludwig AI indicates, its primary function is to highlight the most noticeable or important feature of a subject. While effective in these settings, it's advisable to use simpler alternatives like "key attribute" or "main feature" in more casual conversations. The frequency analysis reveals its prevalence in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Economist, emphasizing its significance in conveying essential attributes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key attribute

Replaces 'characteristic' with 'attribute', emphasizing a quality or feature.

primary feature

Substitutes 'salient' with 'primary' and 'characteristic' with 'feature', focusing on the main aspect.

prominent trait

Uses 'prominent' instead of 'salient' and 'trait' instead of 'characteristic', stressing a noticeable quality.

notable aspect

Replaces 'salient' with 'notable' and 'characteristic' with 'aspect', indicating a noteworthy element.

defining feature

Emphasizes that the feature is what distinctly identifies something.

major characteristic

Replaces 'salient' with 'major', indicating a significant attribute.

distinctive quality

Uses 'distinctive' to highlight a unique quality.

chief attribute

Substitutes 'salient' with 'chief', emphasizing the main attribute.

principal feature

Replaces 'characteristic' with 'feature' and 'salient' with 'principal', focusing on the main aspect.

critical element

Uses 'critical' instead of 'salient' and 'element' instead of 'characteristic', indicating an essential part.

FAQs

What does "salient characteristic" mean?

The phrase "salient characteristic" refers to the most noticeable or important feature of something. It's used to highlight a key attribute that stands out.

How can I use "salient characteristic" in a sentence?

You can use "salient characteristic" to describe a key feature. For example: "The "salient characteristic" of the new model is its improved battery life."

What are some alternatives to "salient characteristic"?

Some alternatives to "salient characteristic" include "key attribute", "primary feature", or "prominent trait". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "salient characteristic" formal or informal?

"Salient characteristic" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, scientific, or professional writing. In more casual settings, simpler alternatives may be preferred.