ENGLISH
REFERENCE

characterized

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈkɛɹəktɝˌaɪzd// char·ac·ter·ized

v. to describe the most important or typical qualities of someone or something. You use it to show what makes a person or thing different from others.

v. to describe the distinctive nature or features of something; to be a typical feature or quality of a person or thing.


SIMPLE

The local weather is characterized by hot, dry summers.

CONTEXTUAL

The early years of the company were characterized by rapid growth and constant innovation in software design.

COMPLEX

The author's later novels are characterized by a shift toward more experimental narrative structures and a darker, more cynical tone regarding human nature.

Synonyms
Usage

The verb is transitive and frequently used in the passive voice with the preposition 'by'.

Pitfall

The book is characterized as a masterpiece.The book is characterized by its complex plot.While 'characterized as' is used for labeling, 'characterized by' is the standard way to list the actual qualities or features of something.

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