sterling qualities

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sterling qualities" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's admirable traits or characteristics, often implying that they are of high value or excellence. Example: "Her sterling qualities, such as honesty and integrity, make her a trusted leader in our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

She has many sterling qualities, some of which were immediately apparent – like her forensic mind and scathing wit.

The Guardian - Opinion

In a Congress of hackish mediocrities, they seemed to get to the top by having truly sterling qualities of hackish mediocrity.

The Economist

One of the older residents of the inn, Chang Sangjun, recognized Bian Qiao's sterling qualities and decided to make the younger man his medical heir.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And just try sitting next to someone who's got a new boyfriend or girlfriend without hearing about their other half's sterling qualities.

The Guardian - Money

You will not be astonished to learn that Erik Axel Karlfeldt was, among his no doubt numerous other sterling qualities, a Swede.

The New Yorker

Some of our best friends are simply not "birthday people," though they possess many other sterling qualities — like listening to us when we're down in the dumps or complimenting our skinny jeans.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Leading tablet-makers will fall victim to the sterling quality of their products, as many consumers decide their current models are good enough.

The Economist

Her latest opera, Miss Fortune, was not warmly received, but seems to have been a rare glitch in an output of otherwise sterling quality.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Any one of Trump's less-than-sterling qualities - his erratic temperament, his dodgy business practices, his racism, his Putin-like strongman inclinations and faux-populist demagoguery, his contempt for the rule of law, his ignorance - is enough to be disqualifying.

Huffington Post

Toyota's once-sterling quality image was dented by a spike in recalls, and its green credibility was damaged by the introduction of the Tundra, and even by the ultraluxury LS 600h L, a performance hybrid with the equivalent of a V-12 that even environmentalists frowned on.

The New York Times

I am not concerned with the names of the floaters you purchase as long as they have sterling credit quality and backup liquidity lines.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person's character, use "sterling qualities" to highlight their most positive and reliable attributes, creating a sense of trustworthiness and admiration.

Common error

Avoid using "sterling qualities" in overly casual or informal settings. It can sound overly formal or pretentious when describing everyday situations or people. Choose more relaxed synonyms like "great traits" or "good points" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sterling qualities" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, emphasizing the high value and positive nature of the described traits. Examples on Ludwig show it's frequently used to highlight admirable character aspects.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Science

8%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sterling qualities" is a phrase used to denote highly admirable and valuable traits. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. While versatile, it is most frequently encountered in News & Media. To enhance your writing, reserve this somewhat formal phrase for situations where you want to emphasize a person's exceptional character and trustworthiness, while avoiding overuse in informal conversations. Alternatives such as "exceptional attributes" and "admirable traits" offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exceptional attributes

Replaces "sterling" with "exceptional", focusing on the high quality of the attributes.

admirable traits

Substitutes "qualities" with "traits" and "sterling" with "admirable", emphasizing praiseworthy aspects.

outstanding characteristics

Replaces "sterling" with "outstanding", highlighting the prominence of the characteristics.

remarkable qualities

Similar to "sterling qualities", but uses "remarkable" to denote noticeable distinction.

noteworthy attributes

Highlights attributes worthy of attention, replacing "sterling" with "noteworthy".

praiseworthy traits

Focuses on traits deserving of praise, offering a slightly more subjective assessment.

valuable characteristics

Emphasizes the worth of the characteristics, replacing "sterling" with "valuable".

exemplary qualities

Indicates qualities that serve as an example, conveying a sense of high standard.

first-rate attributes

Uses "first-rate" to indicate top-tier quality, emphasizing excellence.

superior traits

Denotes traits that are above average, offering a straightforward comparison.

FAQs

How can I use "sterling qualities" in a sentence?

You can use "sterling qualities" to describe someone's highly admirable traits. For example: "Her "sterling qualities", such as honesty and integrity, made her a respected leader."

What are some alternatives to "sterling qualities"?

Alternatives include "exceptional attributes", "admirable traits", or "outstanding characteristics", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "sterling qualities" in a formal setting?

Yes, "sterling qualities" is appropriate for formal settings, as it conveys a sense of high regard and respect. It's suitable for professional evaluations, formal speeches, and written reports.

What kind of characteristics are typically described as "sterling qualities"?

"Sterling qualities" usually refer to traits like integrity, honesty, courage, intelligence, and reliability—characteristics that are considered highly valuable and commendable.