# redeeming

/ɹɪˈdimɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹɪdˈiːmɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/redeeming
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

describing a good quality that makes up for other bad qualities in a person or thing. You use this when someone has many faults but one good point that saves them.

For teachers: serving to offset or compensate for faults, defects, or negative characteristics. Often used in the phrase 'redeeming feature' or 'redeeming quality' to identify a singular merit in an otherwise flawed subject.

## Examples

- His sense of humor is his only redeeming quality.
- The movie was quite boring, but the beautiful scenery was its one redeeming feature.
- While the protagonist is initially presented as selfish and cruel, his sudden act of bravery in the final act provides a redeeming moment that complicates the audience's moral judgment.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun like 'feature', 'quality', or 'factor'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.