B2noun 2K

Characteristic

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˌkærəktəˈrɪstɪk/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˌkærəktəˈrɪstɪk/"]/

Meaning of Characteristic

a typical feature or quality that something/somebody has

In simple words: A special quality or feature of someone or something.

Characteristic in a sentence

• One important characteristic of a good leader is empathy.
• The unique characteristic of this species helps it survive in harsh conditions.
• Her most admirable characteristic is her resilience in the face of adversity.
• The weather in this region has a characteristic pattern of rainfall during the summer.
• In psychology, a characteristic can refer to a distinguishing feature of a person's personality.

How to use Characteristic

Used to describe features that define someone or something. Appropriate in both spoken and written contexts, but avoid in very informal settings where simpler words might suffice.

Grammar pattern

characteristic + of + object

Memory hint

Think of 'character' combined with 'istic' — it’s a feature or trait that defines a person.

Related words

Collocations with Characteristic

• defining
• distinctive
• distinguishing
• display
• exhibit
• have

Synonyms for Characteristic

• feature
• trait
• quality
• attribute
• property

Opposites of Characteristic

• uncharacteristic
• normality

Common mistakes with Characteristic

• Confused with 'characteristics' as a plural form.
• Used too broadly instead of specific traits.
• Misplaced in a sentence where a different description word would be clearer.

Frequently asked questions about Characteristic

What does Characteristic mean?

A special quality or feature of someone or something.

What is the definition of Characteristic?

a typical feature or quality that something/somebody has

How do you use Characteristic in a sentence?

One important characteristic of a good leader is empathy.

Can you give another example of Characteristic?

The unique characteristic of this species helps it survive in harsh conditions.

What are synonyms for Characteristic?

Common alternatives include feature, trait, quality, attribute, property.

What is the opposite of Characteristic?

Opposite meanings include uncharacteristic, normality.

What words go with Characteristic?

It commonly pairs with defining, distinctive, distinguishing, display, exhibit, have.

What are common mistakes when using Characteristic?

Confused with 'characteristics' as a plural form. Used too broadly instead of specific traits. Misplaced in a sentence where a different description word would be clearer.

How do you pronounce Characteristic?

US: /["/ˌkærəktəˈrɪstɪk/"]/, UK: /["/ˌkærəktəˈrɪstɪk/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Characteristic?

Used to describe features that define someone or something. Appropriate in both spoken and written contexts, but avoid in very informal settings where simpler words might suffice.

What CEFR level is Characteristic?

"Characteristic" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.