distinguishing characteristic
Học thuậtThân thiện
A detective notes the suspect's distinguishing characteristic: a small scar above the eyebrow.
Definition
Noun: A distinguishing characteristic is a feature or quality that makes someone or something noticeably different from others. It is a trait that serves to identify or set apart.
Usage
A distinguishing characteristic is used to describe a unique attribute that allows for recognition or differentiation. It often refers to a single, prominent feature that is unusual or atypical.
Examples
- Noun:
- The bird's bright red crest is its most distinguishing characteristic.
- His sense of humor was a distinguishing characteristic that everyone remembered.
Advanced Usage
- "serve as a distinguishing characteristic": To function as the primary feature used for identification.
- In many cultures, a family name serves as a key distinguishing characteristic.
Variants and Related Words
- Distinctive feature (n): A characteristic that makes something easy to recognize.
- The distinctive feature of the car was its vintage design.
- Idiosyncrasy (n): A mode of behavior or way of thought peculiar to an individual; a minor but unusual distinguishing characteristic.
- One of his idiosyncrasies was always drinking tea from a specific mug.
Synonyms
- Hallmark: A distinctive feature, especially one of excellence.
- Trademark: A distinctive characteristic or object firmly associated with a person or thing.
Related Phrases
- Defining trait: A characteristic that is essential to the nature or identity of someone or something.
- Her kindness was her defining trait.
A detective notes the suspect's distinguishing characteristic: a small scar above the eyebrow.
Noun
- an odd or unusual characteristic