hidden characteristic

[ˈhɪdən ˌkærəktərˈɪstɪk]
noun phrasepl: hidden characteristics
característica oculta
1. A feature, trait, or quality that is not immediately visible or apparent but exists within a person, object, or system
The hidden characteristics of the software were revealed during testing.
As características ocultas do software foram reveladas durante os testes.
2. In genetics, a recessive trait that is present in an organism's DNA but not expressed in its physical appearance
Blue eyes are a hidden characteristic in their family's genes.
Olhos azuis são uma característica oculta nos genes da família deles.
3. A personality trait or quality that is not immediately obvious to others
She had hidden characteristics of leadership that emerged over time.
Ela tinha características ocultas de liderança que emergiram ao longo do tempo.
In Brazilian culture, the concept of 'hidden characteristics' is often discussed in contexts of human nature and personality psychology, reflecting an interest in understanding deeper aspects of people beyond first impressions. In the USA, this term is frequently used in scientific, genetic, and business contexts. The phrase carries implications of discovery and revelation, suggesting something valuable or important that has been concealed.
NYC Slang
something on the down-low / sleeper trait
Synonyms / Sinônimos
latent traitrecessive featureconcealed qualityunderlying attributedormant characteristic
Antonyms / Antônimos
obvious characteristicvisible traitapparent featuremanifest qualityprominent characteristic

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
característica oculta
Standard usage across Brazil
São Paulo
traço escondido
Alternative common usage in business and technical contexts
Rio de Janeiro
qualidade enrustida
Informal variant, more colloquial
Portugal
característica latente
Preferred in European Portuguese, especially in scientific contexts

Related Words

phenotypegenotypetraitattributepropertyfeature

Related Idioms & Phrases

hidden depths
beneath the surface
what lies beneath
the real deal
more than meets the eye
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