signature trait

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "signature trait" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a distinctive characteristic or quality that is emblematic of a person, group, or brand. Example: "Her signature trait is her unwavering optimism, which inspires everyone around her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

The other signature trait of Stalwarts is their deep loyalty to the organization.

Harvard Business Review

This bill of shorts introduces the European cartoon character Barbapapa, who looks like a friendly blob and whose ability to change shape is his signature trait.

The New York Times - Arts

The ultimate show-business survival anthem, "I'm Still Here," was stripped of triumphal ferocity to become a calm assertion of Ms. Maye's signature trait: good-humored resilience.

The New York Times - Arts

For a writer whose signature trait has been to transgress, to provoke and to mock convention, the celebration of his 75th birthday at Columbia University's Miller Theater on Friday night was about as polite and proper as one can get.

The New York Times - Books

Winning the World Series has become the standard for the Yankees, and right now that seems a lofty goal for a team only six games over.500 -- a team whose signature trait this summer is inconsistency.

The New York Times - Sports

For all their status as superstars of goth, The Cure's signature trait has always been an ability to knock out jolly pop tunes, as the cutesy "End of the World" reminds us tonight, four songs into an epic (but, by Cure standards, brief) 100-minute set.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Unflappability appears to be one of Mr. Marshall's signature traits.

The New York Times

For feature generation, two different descriptors are proposed to generate signature traits.

Expert Systems with Applications

Surface ugliness is one of the signature traits of a cement plant, as even its supporters admit.

The New York Times

Diverse as the four works presented during this Making Music program were, each demonstrated those signature traits.

The New York Times - Arts

As a result, our research identified six signature traits that we truly believe are critical for individuals to be an inclusive leader, moving forward.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "signature trait" when you want to highlight a particularly noticeable or defining characteristic of a person, brand, or entity. Ensure the context clearly establishes what is being characterized.

Common error

Avoid using "signature trait" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. While acceptable, more precise or technical language might be preferable depending on your audience and purpose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "signature trait" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object. It identifies a defining attribute or quality that is strongly associated with someone or something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "signature trait" is a noun phrase used to describe a distinctive and easily recognizable characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various domains, including News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science. While versatile, consider more formal alternatives in strictly academic contexts. The phrase effectively highlights defining qualities, making it useful for describing individuals, brands, or entities with a standout feature.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defining characteristic

Focuses on a characteristic that is essential in identifying something.

hallmark attribute

Highlights a distinctive feature recognized as a standard or typical of something.

distinctive feature

Emphasizes a characteristic that sets something apart from others.

unique quality

Stresses the one-of-a-kind nature of the characteristic.

defining attribute

Highlights an attribute that essentially describes something.

trademark characteristic

Suggests a feature so strongly associated with something that it's like a brand.

identifying feature

Focuses on a feature that helps in recognizing or identifying something.

distinguishing characteristic

Emphasizes a characteristic that differentiates something from others.

personal brand

Implies something is very much about who someone is.

defining element

Highlights the element which forms the primary definition.

FAQs

How can I use "signature trait" in a sentence?

You can use "signature trait" to describe a defining characteristic. For example, "Her signature trait is her unwavering optimism." It helps to clearly establish what you are describing.

What are some alternatives to "signature trait"?

Consider using alternatives like "defining characteristic", "hallmark attribute", or "distinctive feature" to add variety to your writing.

Is "signature trait" too informal for academic writing?

While "signature trait" is acceptable, more formal options like "defining characteristic" or "unique quality" may be more suitable for academic writing, depending on the specific context and desired tone.

What distinguishes "signature trait" from "common characteristic"?

"Signature trait" emphasizes a unique and recognizable aspect, whereas "common characteristic" refers to features shared by many. A "signature trait" is something that stands out and defines the subject.