característica
/ka.ɾak.teˈɾis.t͡ʃi.kɐ/feminine
In Portuguese, hallmark can be translated as característica or traço distintivo. Wiktionary also lists traço m distintivo.
Meaning: a distinct characteristic (noun)
Ways to say it
| Portuguese | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| característica | /ka.ɾak.teˈɾis.t͡ʃi.kɐ/ (Brazil) /ka.ɾa.ki.teˈɾis.t͡ʃi.kɐ/ (Brazil) |
feminine |
| traço m distintivo |
The term refers to a distinct characteristic. You may use marca metaphorically when referring to a hallmark that serves as a signature or an identifying mark of a person or style.
Which one should you use?
While característica is a general term for any characteristic, traço distintivo is more specific and closer to the English sense of a 'hallmark' or a distinguishing feature.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase traço distintivo is masculine, so if you use an adjective with it, the adjective must also be masculine.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ka.ɾak.teˈɾis.tʃi.kɐ/. It has 6 syllables, with the stress on the 4th syllable.
Did you know?
- In Portuguese, marca can refer to both a physical brand and a psychological scar or emotional mark left by an experience.
- In a formal way to say 'a hallmark of his work', a Portuguese speaker might use selo, which literally means 'seal' or 'stamp'.
- The word distintivo is also used to refer to a physical badge or insignia worn on a uniform, such as a police officer's badge.
Examples in context
- Sim, existem várias marcas de qualidade reconhecidas internacionalmente.Yes, there are several internationally recognized hallmarks.
- Este certificado tem um símbolo de qualidade que garante sua autenticidade.This certificate has a hallmark that guarantees its authenticity.
- Legal, eu procuro sempre por produtos com carimbo de qualidade.Nice, I always look for products with a hallmark.
- A paciência é uma característica sua.Patience is a characteristic of yours.
- Este modelo tem uma característica única.This model has a unique characteristic.
Example conversation
Camila and Felipe are discussing a new employee during a coffee break.
- CamilaO que você achou do novo funcionário?What did you think of the new employee?
- FelipeEle é muito atento, essa é uma característica positiva.He is very attentive, that is a positive characteristic.
- CamilaConcordo, ele parece ser muito profissional.I agree, he seems to be very professional.
- FelipeSim, ele vai ajudar muito a equipe.Yes, he will help the team a lot.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “hallmark” translations and entries característica, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
