特征 (tèzhēng)

特征 refers to a distinguishing characteristic, feature, or trait that sets something or someone apart.

Meanings

[noun] characteristic; feature; trait; a distinguishing property or quality

Example Sentences

这种动物最明显的特征是它的长脖子。 Zhè zhǒng dòngwù zuì míngxiǎn de tèzhēng shì tā de cháng bózi. The most obvious characteristic of this animal is its long neck.

了解文化特征有助于促进跨文化交流。 Liǎojiě wénhuà tèzhēng yǒu zhù yú cùjìn kuà wénhuà jiāoliú. Understanding cultural characteristics helps promote cross-cultural communication.

这款产品的核心特征是方便携带。 Zhè kuǎn chǎnpǐn de héxīn tèzhēng shì fāngbiàn xiédài. The core feature of this product is its portability.

现代城市有许多共同的特征。 Xiàndài chéngshì yǒu xǔduō gòngtóng de tèzhēng. Modern cities share many common characteristics.

Collocations

Collocation	Meaning
主要特征	main characteristic
文化特征	cultural characteristic
外部特征	external feature
基本特征	basic feature

Usage Notes

特征 is a neutral, descriptive term used to identify defining qualities. It is similar to 特点 (tèdiǎn), but 特征 is more formal and often used in scientific or analytical writing. 特点 is more common in everyday speech when describing someone's or something's special quality.

Memory Hook

特 means "special" and 征 means "sign/evidence": a 特征 is the special sign by which you recognize something.