characterizes , characterizing , characterized
If something is characterized by a particular feature or quality, that feature or quality is an obvious part of it.
This election campaign has been characterized by violence.
这次竞选运动以暴力为特征。
If you characterize someone or something as a particular thing, you describe them as that thing.
Both companies have characterized the relationship as friendly.
两家公司都认为彼此的关系是友好的。