Translation guide
The English word 'characteristics' refers to distinguishing traits or features of a person, thing, or group. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 特徴 (tokuchō), but depending on context, other words like 特性 (tokusei) or 特質 (tokushitsu) may be more appropriate. This guide helps you choose the right word based on what you want to express.
To describe the notable or identifying features of something or someone.
The most common and versatile word for 'characteristics'. It can be used for people, objects, places, and abstract concepts. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
この車の特徴は燃費の良さです。
This car's characteristic is its good fuel efficiency.
彼の話し方には独特の特徴がある。
His way of speaking has a unique characteristic.
Often used for inherent properties or attributes, especially in technical, scientific, or formal contexts. It emphasizes a quality that defines the nature of something.
この物質の化学的特性を調べる。
We investigate the chemical characteristics of this substance.
Refers to a special quality or nature, often used for abstract or intrinsic characteristics. More formal and less common in everyday speech.
リーダーに必要な特質は何ですか。
What are the characteristics needed in a leader?
To talk about someone's personality, character, or individual attributes.
Refers to personality or character traits. Use this when describing what kind of person someone is.
彼女は明るい性格です。
She has a cheerful personality.
Can mean nature, disposition, or property. It is used for both people and things, but for people it often implies an innate tendency.
To describe the selling points or specifications of an item.
Again, 特徴 is the go-to word. In marketing contexts, it's often used to list features.
このスマートフォンの特徴を教えてください。
Please tell me the characteristics of this smartphone.
Means 'function' or 'feature' in the sense of what something does. Use this for technical capabilities.
特徴 (tokuchō) is the most general and widely used. 特性 (tokusei) is preferred in scientific, technical, or formal descriptions of properties. 特質 (tokushitsu) is more abstract and often used for inherent qualities of people or concepts. When in doubt, use 特徴.
特徴：彼の顔の特徴は大きい目だ。
Characteristic: The characteristic of his face is his big eyes.
特性：金属の特性を理解する。
Property: Understand the properties of metals.
特質：日本人の特質について話す。
Trait: Talk about the traits of Japanese people.
The English loanword キャラクタリスティックス is rarely used and sounds unnatural. Stick to the Japanese words above.
彼は好奇心旺盛な性質だ。
He has an inquisitive nature.
The main feature of this app is photo editing.