Word
characterization
Phoneticschar·ac·ter·i·za·tion, stress on the fifth syllable
/ˌkɛɹəktɝɪˈzeɪʃən/
UK spelling · characterisation
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. the way a writer or actor describes a person's personality and traits. It is the process of building a believable character in a story or film.
n. the representation of a person's distinctive qualities in literature, drama, or film. Also refers to the act of describing or classifying someone or something.
Examples
“The movie's characterization of the hero felt very realistic.”
“Critics praised the film for its nuanced characterization of the complex protagonist.”
“The novel's success relies on its subtle characterization, which reveals the protagonist's inner conflict through small, seemingly insignificant gestures rather than explicit narration.”
Examples
simple
“The movie's characterization of the hero felt very realistic.”
contextual
“Critics praised the film for its nuanced characterization of the complex protagonist.”
complex
“The novel's success relies on its subtle characterization, which reveals the protagonist's inner conflict through small, seemingly insignificant gestures rather than explicit narration.”
Real-World Examples
“China has rejected Washington’s characterization of academic cooperation as a security threat.” “The filmmaker was particularly inspired by Wilson’s opening line, explaining in interviews that he was drawn to Odysseus’ characterization as a hero with an edge.” “Six Oldenburg researchers collaborated with members of a research group led by physics Nobel laureate Anne L'Huillier at Lund University in Sweden to perform a detailed characterization of the laser system.” Etymology
From characterize + -ation.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/characterization