that characterizes

USAGE SUMMARY

"that characterizes" is a valid and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a defining characteristic or quality of a person, thing, or situation. It can also be used to describe a common trait or behavior of a group or category. Example: "The strict adherence to traditional values that characterizes Amish communities often sets them apart from mainstream society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"All of what we know that characterizes people shifted radically.

The New York Times

Above all else, it is her lightness that characterizes her.

The New York Times - Books

"I don't think that characterizes this particular administration," he said.

The New Yorker

"I think that characterizes, in many ways, life".

The New Yorker

That leads to the rapid cell growth that characterizes cancer.

The New York Times

The praise that characterizes Grace Schulman's poetry argues for light's power to transform anything anywhere.

The New York Times - Books

Both dances are driven by the bracing energy that characterizes most of Cunningham's works.

The New Yorker

His earliest work exhibits the same astonishing technical proficiency that characterizes his final output.

The New York Times - Books

For some Democrats, Cooperman is the quintessence of the entitlement that characterizes the wealthiest Americans.

The New Yorker

Hall had a natural stride, and he also had the obsession that characterizes top runners.

The New Yorker

Naji writes in the dry, oddly temperate style that characterizes many Al Qaeda strategy studies.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that characterizes" to introduce a key attribute or feature, ensuring clarity and precision in your writing. This helps readers quickly understand the defining aspects of the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "that characterizes" in overly simple sentences where a more direct verb would suffice. For example, instead of "The color that characterizes this flower is red," simply write "This flower is red."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that characterizes" functions as a relative clause introducing a defining or distinctive attribute. This usage is supported by examples provided by Ludwig, where it consistently links a noun to a specific quality or feature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that characterizes" is a grammatically sound and frequently used relative clause that serves to define or highlight a key attribute. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is employed across various contexts, including news, science, and formal writing, with a generally neutral to formal register. While versatile, it should be used judiciously to avoid redundancy in simple sentences. Related phrases include "that defines" and "that distinguishes", offering nuanced alternatives for precise communication. Its widespread use in authoritative sources underscores its reliability and effectiveness in conveying specific qualities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that defines

Slightly stronger emphasis on setting a boundary or limit.

that distinguishes

Focuses on setting something apart from others.

that typifies

Emphasizes a representative example or model.

that embodies

Suggests a more complete or perfect representation.

that exemplifies

Highlights something as a clear and typical instance.

that marks

Implies a distinct feature or quality.

that features

Focuses on prominent aspects or qualities.

that identifies

Highlights the key attribute or aspect.

that is representative of

A more descriptive and formal alternative.

that is indicative of

Suggests that something is a sign or symptom of something else.

FAQs

How can I use "that characterizes" in a sentence?

Use "that characterizes" to introduce a defining feature or attribute of a subject. For instance, "The dedication "that characterizes" her work is evident in every project".

What are some alternatives to "that characterizes"?

Alternatives include "that defines", "that distinguishes", or "that typifies", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "that characterizes" or "which characterizes"?

"That characterizes" is generally preferred in restrictive clauses that are essential to the meaning of the sentence. "Which characterizes" is more common in non-restrictive clauses that add extra information.

What is the difference between "that characterizes" and "that is characterized by"?

"That characterizes" emphasizes the action of defining, while "that is characterized by" focuses on the state of being defined. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight the process or the result.