they are characterised

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they are characterised" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the defining features or qualities of a subject or group. Example: "In the study, the participants are characterised by their diverse backgrounds and experiences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What these countries have in common is that they are characterised as being largely pro-European.

The Guardian

They are characterised by shocking levels of brutality meted out on civilians and an all-pervasive impunity for perpetrators.

The Guardian

Meticulously researched, but never dry or verbose, they are characterised by historical accuracy, intricate plotting, drama, passion, intrigue and humour.

The Guardian - Books

They are characterised by conflict, weak and unaccountable institutions and generally dysfunctional political economies – the traditional accompaniments to corruption.

The Guardian - Opinion

Although his paintings partake of the cool, mechanical exactitude of the photographs they transcribe in various ways, they are characterised by scepticism, distance and doubt.

The Guardian - Arts

They are characterised by a relatively small number of major retailers and caterers being supplied by thousands of small- and medium-sized businesses which are owner-managed.

The Guardian - Opinion

They are characterised by a much greater propensity to play ABAC and ABCB passing sequences, as well as ABAB (a trait they share with more teams).

The Economist

Typically they are characterised by rates of inequality in the initial market distribution of income that are similar to those in the richest countries: Gini coefficients of around 0.4-0.5 0.4-0.5

The Guardian - Opinion

"Equivalent, perhaps, to images of kittens or thatched cottages, sunset photographs have a low cultural status: they are characterised as sentimental visual confectionery indicative of limited aesthetic vision and an undeveloped practice; as childlike pleasures".

The Guardian - Arts

They are characterised by possessing an immense (somatic) persistence and reserve of power ("repetition-compulsion"); and they are represented mentally as images or ideas with an affective charge ("cathexis").

Encyclopedia Britannica

"They are characterised as the 'selfie generation' that are only interested in how they look on their mobile phone and don't enter into conversation because they have their head down looking at a screen," he said.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that the subject ('they') is clearly defined and that the characteristics you are attributing are consistently supported by evidence or examples throughout your writing.

Common error

Avoid making sweeping statements without sufficient support when using "they are characterised". Provide specific examples or evidence to validate your claims and avoid generalizations that might not apply to all members of the group or all instances of the concept.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are characterised" functions as a descriptive and definitional element. It is used to introduce the key attributes or features that define a particular subject. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, which showcase its usage across varied domains to specify defining traits.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "they are characterised" is a versatile phrase used to introduce and define the key attributes of a subject, as validated by Ludwig. It is grammatically sound and commonly found in diverse writing contexts, from news and media to scientific literature. The analysis indicates a neutral to formal register, emphasizing the phrase's role in structured and informative communication. While prevalent, remember to provide specific details and avoid overgeneralizations for effective usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are defined by

This alternative focuses on essential qualities that determine the nature of something.

they exhibit traits of

This phrase highlights specific characteristics or qualities that are displayed.

they possess features of

This option emphasizes the attributes or elements that something has.

they demonstrate aspects of

This suggests that certain facets or elements are being shown or revealed.

they embody qualities of

This implies that something is a perfect example or representation of certain traits.

they manifest attributes of

This alternative suggests that particular characteristics are becoming apparent or evident.

they are known for

This emphasizes widespread recognition of particular traits or actions.

they are distinguished by

This highlights what makes something unique or different from others.

they are typified by

This indicates that something serves as a typical example of certain qualities.

they are marked by

This stresses that something is noticeably affected or influenced by specific attributes.

FAQs

How can I use "they are characterised" in a sentence?

Use "they are characterised" to introduce the defining features of a group, object, or idea. For example, "They are characterised by their resilience and adaptability."

What are some alternatives to "they are characterised"?

Alternatives include "they are defined by", "they exhibit traits of", or "they possess features of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to use "they are characterised"?

Yes, "they are characterised" is grammatically correct. It's commonly used to describe the key attributes or features of a subject. It indicates qualities that define or distinguish the subject.

What's the difference between "they are characterised" and "they are known for"?

"They are characterised" focuses on defining traits, while "they are known for" emphasizes recognized or famous attributes. Characterization provides a comprehensive description, while being known for highlights prominent, often public, qualities.