特色(とくしょく)

とくしょく
noun
distinctive feature, characteristic
abstract
1. distinctive feature, characteristic, distinguishing quality
A quality or trait that makes something stand out from others in a positive or neutral way. Used to describe what makes a place, product, institution, or style unique and noteworthy.
この学校(がっこう)の特色(とくしょく)は英語(えいご)教育(きょういく)だ。
The distinctive feature of this school is its English education.
地域(ちいき)の特色(とくしょく)を生(い)かした街(まち)づくりが進(すす)んでいる。
Community development that leverages the region's distinctive features is progressing.
特色(とくしょく)のない商品(しょうひん)は競争(きょうそう)に勝(か)てない。
Products without distinctive features cannot win in the competition.

Usage

A semi-formal word often used in brochures, descriptions, and evaluations. Carries a positive or neutral nuance — it describes what makes something noteworthy rather than merely different. Frequently used in education (特色(とくしょく)ある教育(きょういく) — distinctive education) and regional promotion.

Similar words

特徴(とくちょう) (characteristic) is more neutral and general, while 特色(とくしょく) implies something worth highlighting or showcasing.

Common collocations

  • 特色(とくしょく)がある: to have distinctive features
  • 特色(とくしょく)を生(い)かす: to leverage distinctive features
  • 特色(とくしょく)ある: distinctive (prenominal)
  • 特色(とくしょく)を出(だ)す: to bring out distinctiveness

Related Words

Synonym: 特徴(とくちょう) (characteristic, feature)
Compare: 差別化(さべつか) (differentiation)
Compare: 独自性(どくじせい) (originality)
general
Added 2026.2.24 22:29 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
13000/13485_tokushoku