subsidiary feature
[/səbˈsɪdiəri ˈfiːtʃər/]
nounpl: subsidiary features
característica secundária
1. A less important or supporting attribute, quality, or element of something that complements the main features
The smartphone's waterproof capability is a subsidiary feature compared to its processing power.
A capacidade à prova d'água do smartphone é uma característica secundária comparada ao seu poder de processamento.
2. In design or architecture, a minor detail or component that supports the primary structure or aesthetic
The decorative molding is merely a subsidiary feature of the building's main façade.
A moldura decorativa é meramente uma característica secundária da fachada principal do edifício.
3. In taxonomy or classification systems, a supporting characteristic used to distinguish between categories
Scientists use subsidiary features to further classify organisms within established groups.
Os cientistas usam características secundárias para classificar organismos dentro de grupos estabelecidos.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, the term is commonly used in product marketing and technology sectors to distinguish between essential and optional features. In Brazil, marketers often emphasize subsidiary features as added value ('diferenciais'), while in the USA, the focus tends to be on highlighting the core functionality first, with subsidiary features listed separately. In Portugal, the term maintains a more technical and formal application in academic and professional documentation.
Related Idioms & Phrases
bells and whistles (referring to subsidiary features added to appeal)
icing on the cake (subsidiary feature that adds value but isn't essential)
the cherry on top (minor feature that completes something)
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →