trait
A trait is a particular quality or characteristic that makes a person or thing special. It often describes someone's personality, like being kind or brave, or a physical feature like blue eyes.
Examples
3 of 5Kindness is a very nice trait to have.
Kindness is a very good quality for a person to have.
The candidate possesses several leadership traits.
The person applying for the job has many qualities of a leader.
My dad's best trait is his funny sense of humor.
The best thing about my father is that he is very funny.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'portrait'. A portrait is a painting that shows a person's 'traits' or features.
Quick Quiz
Honesty is an important ___ for a good friend to have.
Correct!
The correct answer is: trait
Examples
Kindness is a very nice trait to have.
everydayKindness is a very good quality for a person to have.
The candidate possesses several leadership traits.
formalThe person applying for the job has many qualities of a leader.
My dad's best trait is his funny sense of humor.
informalThe best thing about my father is that he is very funny.
The study identifies specific genetic traits in the population.
academicThe research looks at physical qualities passed down through families.
Reliability is a key trait for any successful employee.
businessBeing someone people can trust is an important quality for a worker.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
dominant trait
a quality that is stronger than others
defining trait
the most important quality that describes someone
undesirable trait
a quality that is seen as negative
Often Confused With
A trace is a very small amount of something, while a trait is a specific quality or characteristic.
A track is a path or a mark left behind, whereas a trait is a part of a person's nature.
Usage Notes
Use 'trait' when you want to talk about a permanent part of someone's character or appearance. It is not used for temporary feelings like being angry for a moment.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'trait' to describe a temporary mood. Remember that a trait is usually a long-term part of who you are.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'portrait'. A portrait is a painting that shows a person's 'traits' or features.
Word Origin
From the Old French word 'trait', which means a stroke or a line drawn.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many English-speaking cultures, talking about 'personality traits' is very common in job interviews and psychology.
Quick Quiz
Honesty is an important ___ for a good friend to have.
Correct!
The correct answer is: trait
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
principled
C2Acting in accordance with morality and high standards of behavior. It describes a person or an action guided by a strict set of values and integrity rather than by personal gain or convenience.
analytical
C1Relating to or using analysis or logical reasoning to understand something by breaking it down into its constituent parts. It describes a systematic approach to problem-solving and the ability to evaluate information critically.
approach
C1A systematic way of dealing with something or a specific perspective taken when addressing a problem or task. It can also refer to the physical act of moving nearer to someone or something in distance or time.
authorize
C1To grant official permission or legal power to someone to perform a specific action or to allow something to happen. It typically involves a formal process or a person in a position of authority validating a request or procedure.
beneficial
B2Beneficial describes something that has a good effect or promotes well-being. It is frequently used in formal or academic contexts to highlight the advantages or positive outcomes of a specific action, substance, or situation.
consistent
C2The quality of achieving a level of performance which does not vary over time, or the state of being coherent and not contradictory in logical or behavioral terms. Physically, it refers to the degree of thickness, firmness, or viscosity found in a substance.
constitutional
C2Relating to the fundamental principles or established laws that govern a state or organization. It can also refer to an individual's physical health or inherent temperament.
contextual
B2Relating to the circumstances or setting in which something exists or occurs. It describes information that helps explain the meaning of an event, statement, or idea by looking at its surroundings.
contract
C1A formal and legally binding agreement between two or more parties that establishes mutual obligations. In academic and legal contexts, it refers to the specific terms, conditions, and enforcement mechanisms that govern a transaction or relationship.
contractor
C1A person or company that performs work or provides goods and services under a specific legal agreement. Unlike a regular employee, a contractor is usually hired for a specific project or a fixed period of time as an independent entity.
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