Characterization: meaning, definitions and examples
🎭
characterization
[ ˌker.ək.tər.əˈzaɪ.ʃən ]
in literature
The process by which an author reveals the personality of a character. This can be done through direct descriptions, actions, thoughts, and dialogue.
Synonyms
depiction, portrayal, representation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
characterization |
Used to describe how a character is presented in a story or a description of a person's qualities and personality.
|
portrayal |
Refers to the way in which someone or something is presented or brought to life, especially by actors or in artistic works. Often relates to how well an actor represents a character.
|
depiction |
Typically used to describe how something is shown or represented in a visual or descriptive way, often in art, literature, or films.
|
representation |
Generally used to describe how someone or something is shown or stands for something else, can be in art, media, and symbols.
|
Examples of usage
- He was known for his skillful characterization of complex individuals.
- The novel's rich characterization brought the story to life.
in acting
The portrayal of a character's personality traits by an actor. It involves understanding the character's motivations, emotions, and behaviors.
Synonyms
impersonation, interpretation, performance.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
characterization |
Useful in describing the way in which someone or something is explained or presented, particularly in literature or drama.
|
interpretation |
Applied when someone explains or describes the meaning or significance of something, such as a piece of art, literature, or a role in a play or movie.
|
performance |
Used to describe the act of performing a role, whether in a play, movie, or other forms of entertainment. It focuses on the execution rather than the understanding or explanation.
|
impersonation |
Typically used when someone imitates or takes on the behavior, voice, or appearance of another person, often for humorous or entertainment purposes. It can have a slightly negative connotation if it suggests deceit.
|
Examples of usage
- His deep characterization of the protagonist won him critical acclaim.
- The actor's nuanced characterization added depth to the performance.
in science
The process of describing the unique features or traits of an object or organism. It is essential for classification and identification purposes.
Synonyms
analysis, classification, description.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
characterization |
Used to describe the creation or construction of a character in a story, film, or play. It can also refer to detailing attributes of a person or thing for illustrative purposes.
|
description |
Suitable when providing a detailed account or picture of something in words. This word is often used in everyday communication as well as in literature and reporting.
|
analysis |
Appropriate when discussing the detailed examination of the elements or structure of something, typically for discussion or interpretation. This term is commonly used in academic, scientific, and technical contexts.
|
classification |
Used when organizing or sorting things into groups or categories based on shared qualities or characteristics. This term is common in scientific and organizational settings.
|
Examples of usage
- The molecular characterization of the virus helped in developing a vaccine.
- The characterization of the new species was published in a scientific journal.
Translations
Translations of the word "characterization" in other languages:
🇵🇹 caracterização
🇮🇳 चरित्रण
🇩🇪 Charakterisierung
🇮🇩 karakterisasi
🇺🇦 характеристика
🇵🇱 charakteryzacja
🇯🇵 特徴付け
🇫🇷 caractérisation
🇪🇸 caracterización
🇹🇷 karakterizasyon
🇰🇷 특성화
🇸🇦 توصيف
🇨🇿 charakterizace
🇸🇰 charakterizácia
🇨🇳 特征
🇸🇮 karakterizacija
🇮🇸 einkenni
🇰🇿 сипаттама
🇬🇪 მახასიათებელი
🇦🇿 xarakteristika
🇲🇽 caracterización
Etymology
The word 'characterization' originated from the verb 'characterize' in the early 17th century, which in turn came from the Greek word 'kharaktēr'. The concept of characterization has been fundamental in literature, acting, and various scientific fields, allowing for the vivid portrayal and description of characters, objects, and organisms.
See also: character, characteristic, characteristically, characteristics, characterizable, characterize, characters, uncharacteristically.
Word Frequency Rank
At #6,077 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.
- ...
- 6074 memorial
- 6075 portfolio
- 6076 abolished
- 6077 characterization
- 6078 agreeable
- 6079 coordinates
- 6080 calculating
- ...