seminal character

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seminal character" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to describe an important figure in a field of study, genre of art, or period of history. For example, "Elizabeth I was a seminal character in the history of the British monarchy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

She called the new work "Ruined" and gave its seminal character the name Mama Nadi.

The New York Times

His only feature film so far, Vantage Point, was a brave attempt to introduce some unorthodox aesthetics into the modern thriller form, but he seems like a risky choice to relaunch such a seminal character.

The Guardian - Film

But rather than "hagiography in action," as took place in Argentina, Mr. Babej said, the "degree and nature of the adulation of Obama, the iconization, if you will, reflects that this is a seminal character coming together with a seminal event, the first black person becoming president, at a moment in time that everyone recognizes as important".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

At this crucial moment in global climate policy making, Harrabin talks to seminal characters in the climate change debate including Tony Blair, Lord Lawson, Professor Bob Watson, former diplomat Sir Crispin Tickell and the influential blogger Steve McIntyre.

BBC

Like the novel, its characters were equally cultural milestones, described by a reviewer as "seminal characters" (of American fiction).

Wikipedia

That itinerant period gave birth to Hankin's two seminal characters Emmett and Sometimes Jones (the lead character in his Academy-Award-nominated short, Solly's Diner), recurring characters in his many video and film shorts.

Huffington Post

Instead, being a novel rather than a treatise, the book attempts to breathe life into a few seminal characters.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

In many ways, and as a foil to Frank Semyon, Velcoro is a seminal noir character: Bad guy masquerading as good until an event that lets loose the beast.

Huffington Post

The seminal role of the supervisor.

Science Magazine

From 2004-08, Spader won three Emmy awards for his seminal role as shameless attorney Alan Shore in "The Practice" and "Boston Legal," making him the only actor to win consecutive Emmys playing the same character on two different series.

HuffPost

Trayvon Martin was a seminal case.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seminal character" when you want to emphasize that a character is not just important, but has had a lasting and formative influence on what followed. Ensure the context clearly demonstrates this significant impact.

Common error

Avoid using "seminal character" to describe any important character. Instead, reserve it for characters whose actions or creations have profoundly shaped the direction of a field, movement, or genre. Otherwise, terms like "influential character" or "key character" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seminal character" functions as a noun phrase, where "seminal" modifies the noun "character". It identifies a person as being significantly influential or foundational within a specific context. Ludwig identifies its usage in describing key figures with lasting impact.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seminal character" is a phrase used to describe a highly influential person whose work or actions have had a lasting and formative impact. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriately used in various contexts, primarily within News & Media, Science, and Wiki. When using this phrase, it is important to ensure that the character in question has not only been important, but has also established an enduring legacy. Consider alternatives such as "influential figure" or "foundational character" when a less profound influence is intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foundational character

This highlights the role of setting a foundation.

cornerstone character

This highlights the character as an essential element.

influential figure

This alternative is more general and focuses on the degree of influence.

groundbreaking character

This stresses innovation and new directions.

pivotal figure

This emphasizes the turning-point nature of the character.

trailblazing figure

This highlights pioneering efforts.

central figure

This emphasizes the character's importance to the main topic.

landmark personality

This emphasizes historical importance and recognition.

formative influence

This emphasizes the role of shaping something.

key player

This is a more informal way to describe an important character.

FAQs

What does "seminal character" mean?

A "seminal character" is a highly influential figure whose work or actions have a lasting impact and serve as a foundation for future developments in a particular field or area.

When is it appropriate to use the term "seminal character"?

It's appropriate when describing someone whose contributions have fundamentally shaped their field, leaving a lasting influence. Consider using alternatives like "influential figure" or "foundational character" if the impact isn't as profound.

How can I use "seminal character" in a sentence?

Example: "Sherlock Holmes is a "seminal character" in detective fiction, inspiring countless authors and detectives both real and fictional."

What are some alternatives to "seminal character"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "influential figure", "key player", or "central figure". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.