Qualities: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe good or positive features or aspects of a person, place, or thing.

• Her honesty and kindness are her best qualities.
• The natural qualities of this material make it perfect for building.

Often used in a more formal or technical setting to denote inherent properties of an object, person, or concept.

• Leadership and communication skills are key attributes for a manager.
• The software’s most impressive attribute is its speed.

Typically used to describe distinguishable features that help to identify or categorize something or someone.

• One of the main characteristics of a good teacher is patience.
• Its unique characteristics make this animal easy to identify.

Often used in a psychological or genetic context to talk about specific qualities or features, particularly those that can be inherited or learned.

• Generosity is one of her strongest traits.
• Certain personality traits are believed to be influenced by genetics.

Used to describe inherent characteristics of someone or something, often highlighting positive traits.

• Her leadership qualities made her an excellent team captain
• The wine's qualities were praised by the connoisseur

Emphasizes distinctive parts or elements of something, often used in the context of products, technology, or physical descriptions.

• The new smartphone has several innovative features
• Her most striking feature is her bright green eyes

Usually pertains to the characteristics of materials, substances, or technical aspects, commonly used in scientific and technical discussions.

• The material's waterproof properties make it ideal for outdoor use
• The chemical properties of the substance were analyzed in the lab

Refers to specific aspects or characteristics ascribed to someone or something, often in more formal or technical contexts.

• One of the main attributes of a good teacher is patience
• The product's attributes include durability and efficiency

Used to describe attributes or characteristics of a person, object, or concept.

• She has many admirable qualities, such as kindness and integrity
• The qualities of this material make it perfect for outdoor use

Refers to the state of being exceptionally good or outstanding in a particular area.

• The school is known for its academic excellence
• His dedication to excellence in every project is remarkable

Implies being better than others in a certain way, often used in competitive or comparative contexts. Can have a negative connotation of arrogance if used to describe people.

• The superiority of this technology is evident in its efficiency
• He often speaks with a sense of superiority, which can be off-putting

Often used to talk about expectations or criteria that are considerably above average.

• The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness
• She sets a high standard for her work that others strive to meet