that is characteristic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that is characteristic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a quality or feature that is typical of a person, thing, or situation. Example: "Her attention to detail is that is characteristic of a true professional."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In the center is the intricate lip that is characteristic of all orchids.

The New Yorker

There's a freedom to their music that is characteristic of Bergen.

The Guardian - Music

He had the stiff-backed posture that is characteristic of many Brothers.

The New Yorker

In its ethics, the karikas manifest an intellectualism that is characteristic of the Samkhya system.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The leaves gave off the unmistakable scent of gasoline that is characteristic of epazote.

The New York Times

There was little sign of the profound cohesion that is characteristic of Mr. Alden's productions.

The New York Times - Arts

"This is a situation that is characteristic of black urban politics all over the country".

The New York Times

In the camps, Hutu peasants express their ire in the quiet, indirect manner that is characteristic of the region.

The New York Times - Magazine

Jorge sings in the penetrating tone that is characteristic of singers from his home state of Sinaloa.

The New Yorker

Putin's performance of incompetence is markedly different from the incompetence that is characteristic of the Trump Administration.

The New Yorker

The vender had the stern gaze that is characteristic of Salafis, and he wore his beard full.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that is characteristic" to clearly and concisely identify a typical feature or quality of a subject. This phrase adds precision and authority to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "that is characteristic" in overly simple or obvious statements. It can make your writing sound redundant or pretentious. Use it when describing less obvious or defining features.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that is characteristic" functions as a descriptor, typically linking a subject with a defining attribute or quality. It's used to highlight features inherent or commonly associated with something, as seen in examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

22%

Encyclopedias

18%

Less common in

Wiki

16%

Formal & Business

6%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that is characteristic" is a versatile phrase used to denote a typical or defining attribute. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various domains, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts. While highly functional for emphasizing key features, it's important to avoid overuse in simplistic descriptions. Related phrases like "that is typical" or "that is representative" can provide nuanced alternatives. Ludwig's analysis helps ensure effective and precise application of this phrase in diverse writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that is typical

Replaces "characteristic" with "typical", focusing on commonality and expected traits.

that is representative

Emphasizes that something serves as a good example or model.

that is indicative

Highlights that something serves as a sign or signal of a particular quality or condition.

that is distinctive

Focuses on unique or easily recognizable qualities.

that is inherent

Stresses that a quality is an essential and inseparable part of something.

that is symptomatic

Suggests that something is a sign of an underlying problem or condition.

that is definitional

Emphasizes that something is essential to the definition of a concept or thing.

that is usual

Highlights the common or expected nature of something.

that is customary

Focuses on the traditional or established nature of something.

that is normal

Implies that something is in accordance with what is expected or standard.

FAQs

How can I use "that is characteristic" in a sentence?

Use "that is characteristic" to point out a distinctive or typical quality of something. For instance, "The frequent rainfall that is characteristic of the region supports lush vegetation".

What's a good alternative to "that is characteristic"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "that is typical", "that is representative", or "that is indicative".

Is it better to say "that is characteristic of" or "that is a characteristic of"?

"That is characteristic of" is generally preferred because it directly links a quality to a subject. "That is a characteristic of" is grammatically correct, but can sound slightly more verbose.

What is the difference between "that is characteristic" and "that is typical"?

While similar, "that is characteristic" often implies a more defining or intrinsic quality, whereas "that is typical" simply suggests common occurrence.