Basic Details
Word: Characteristic
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A quality or feature that helps to identify, describe, or distinguish someone or something.
Synonyms: Trait, feature, attribute
Antonyms: Uncharacteristic, atypical
Idioms and Phrases
- In character: Acting in a way that is typical for someone. Example: "He was funny and light-hearted, always in character at our friendly gatherings."
- Out of character: Acting in a way that is not typical for someone. Example: "It was out of character for her to forget her friend's birthday."
Usage Examples
Example 1: One characteristic of a good friend is being supportive during tough times.
Example 2: The tall, green spikes on the plant are a characteristic that helps it survive in deserts.
Example 3: Honesty is a characteristic that many people admire in a leader.
Fun Fact
The word "characteristic" comes from the Greek word "kharakter," which means "a stamping tool" and later evolved to mean a distinctive mark or trait.
Famous Quote
"The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitude." - William James, highlighting a characteristic of personal choices.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "characteristic" mean?
a) A casual meeting
b) A quality or feature
c) A type of drink
d) A kind of animal
Answer: b) A quality or feature
2. Which of these is a synonym of "characteristic"?
a) Attribute
b) Problem
c) Journey
d) Fruit
Answer: a) Attribute
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "characteristic"?
a) Feature
b) Uncharacteristic
c) Trait
d) Quality
Answer: b) Uncharacteristic
4. Which sentence uses "characteristic" correctly?
a) Her kindness is a characteristic that makes her a great teacher.
b) The rock characteristic fell from the sky.
c) They characteristic are enjoying the meal.
d) She characteristic the book on the shelf.
Answer: a) Her kindness is a characteristic that makes her a great teacher.
5. What does "out of character" mean?
a) Acting in a typical way
b) Acting in a way that is not typical
c) Being very brave
d) Writing a story
Answer: b) Acting in a way that is not typical
