Reading Theme:
Character: Definition, Usage & Key Meanings (3 meaning)
Meaning 1：moral qualities (character)
character
/ˈkærəktər/
n.
The combination of qualities that makes a person who they are, like being kind, honest, or brave.
moral qualities
➕
/ˈmɔːrəl ˈkwɒlɪtiz/
n.
The inherent qualities and ethical traits that define a person's personality, such as honesty, bravery, or kindness.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Greek 'kharaktēr' (engraved mark), via Latin, meaning distinctive quality.
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'char' as in charm and 'acter' as in actor – a charming actor has good character.
📖 Example
Moving to a new country really tested my friend's character, but her kindness and sense of humor helped her make new friends quickly.
Relocating abroad challenged my friend's personality, yet her benevolence and wit aided in forming new friendships swiftly.
🔗 Collocations
good character – having positive moral traits
strong character – displaying resilience and integrity
moral character – ethical qualities of a person
🔄 Synonyms
personality (n.) – The combination of characteristics that form an individual's distinctive nature
nature (n.) – The inherent qualities of a person
integrity (n.) – The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles
🚫 Antonyms
immorality (n.) – Lack of moral principles; unethical behavior
dishonesty (n.) – The quality of being untruthful or deceptive
🌱 Derivatives
characteristic (adj./n.) – Typical feature or quality
characterize (v.) – To describe the qualities of something
📖 Cultural Story
Originates from Greek 'kharaktēr', used for engraved stamps on coins or seals. Evolved to denote distinctive personal traits or fictional persons in literature and media.
Meaning 2：fictional person (character)
character
/ˈkærəktər/
n.
A person in a story, book, film, or play.
fictional person
➕
/ˈfɪkʃənl ˈpɜːrsn/
n.
A person or entity portrayed in a narrative work such as a story, film, or play, often with defined traits and roles.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
My favorite character in the movie is the clever detective who solves the mystery using logic and observation.
The intelligent detective in the film, who unravels the mystery through reasoning and careful observation, is my preferred fictional person.
🔗 Collocations
main character – the central person in a story
supporting character – a secondary person who aids the plot
character development – the evolution of a fictional person over time
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
non-entity (n.) – A person of no importance or significance
🌱 Derivatives
characterization (n.) – The process of creating a fictional person
Meaning 3：distinctive atmosphere (character)
character
/ˈkærəktər/
n.
The particular quality or atmosphere that makes a place, thing, or event special and different.
distinctive atmosphere
➕
/dɪˈstɪŋktɪv ˈætməsfɪər/
n.
The unique quality, mood, or essence that gives a place, object, or event its special identity and appeal.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The old town has a lot of character, with its cobblestone streets and family-run bakeries that have been there for generations.
The historic district possesses a unique charm, featuring aged cobblestone paths and long-established family bakeries.
🔗 Collocations
full of character – having a rich and unique quality
lose its character – to become bland or less distinctive
unique character – a special and individual atmosphere
🔄 Synonyms
ambiance (n.) – The mood or atmosphere of a place
vibe (n.) – The informal feeling or atmosphere emitted
atmosphere (n.) – The pervading tone or mood of a place
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