Characterization: meaning, definitions and examples

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characterization

 

[ ˌker.ək.tər.əˈzaɪ.ʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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.

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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.

  • The author's characterization of the protagonist made her very relatable.
  • His characterization of the villain was quite detailed.
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.

  • His portrayal of Hamlet was praised by critics.
  • The portrayal of women in the series has sparked discussions.
depiction

Typically used to describe how something is shown or represented in a visual or descriptive way, often in art, literature, or films.

  • The movie's depiction of medieval life was incredibly accurate.
  • Her depiction of the landscape captured every detail.
representation

Generally used to describe how someone or something is shown or stands for something else, can be in art, media, and symbols.

  • The film offers a realistic representation of the struggles of immigrants.
  • Her artwork is a representation of her inner thoughts.

Examples of usage

  • He was known for his skillful characterization of complex individuals.
  • The novel's rich characterization brought the story to life.
Context #2 | Noun

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.

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Word Description / Examples
characterization

Useful in describing the way in which someone or something is explained or presented, particularly in literature or drama.

  • The characterization of the protagonist in the novel was complex and multi-faceted
  • The play's success hinged on the effective characterization of its main characters
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.

  • Her interpretation of the poem brought out its deep emotions
  • The actor's unique interpretation of Hamlet was highly praised by critics
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.

  • Her performance in the musical was outstanding
  • The audience gave a standing ovation at the end of the performance
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.

  • His impersonation of celebrities at the talent show was hilarious
  • The con artist was skilled at the impersonation of various official reports

Examples of usage

  • His deep characterization of the protagonist won him critical acclaim.
  • The actor's nuanced characterization added depth to the performance.
Context #3 | Noun

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?

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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.

  • The characterization of the main character in the novel was so realistic that I could really picture him in my mind.
  • His characterization in the play brought out the complexities of the character's personality.
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.

  • Her description of the sunset was so vivid that I felt like I was there.
  • The police officer asked for a description of the suspect.
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.

  • The analysis of the data revealed some surprising trends.
  • In her analysis of the poem, she discussed the use of metaphors and symbols.
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.

  • The classification of the species helped scientists better understand their evolution.
  • Library books are arranged in a classification system that makes them easy to find.

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.