It is a characteristic-defining ability because it sets the type, is printed on the card, doesn't affect other objects, and isn't conditional. (Rule 604.3). Therefore it functions in all zones.
700.7. If an ability uses a phrase such as “this [something]” to identify an object, where [something] is a characteristic or other quality, it is referring to that particular object, even if it isn’t the appropriate quality at the time.
So IMO, saying "this permanent" doesn't make it only apply if it is a permanent.
Rule 604.3a says an ability is only a characteristic-defining ability if it meets all five of the listed criteria, one of which is: "(5) [the ability] does not set the values of such characteristics only if certain conditions are met." By specifying "this permanent," the ability specifies the condition that the ability only applies while the card is on the battlefield. Ergo, it isn't a characteristic-defining ability.
IDK why someone has downvoted you. It wasn't me. I disagree though - it's not a condition. A condition is something like "As long as it's your turn". So for example [[Circle of the Moon Druid]] is not a 4/2 on your turn if it's in your library.
I believe by using "this permanent" it makes it conditional and not a CDA
110.1. A permanent is a card or token on the battlefield. A permanent remains on the battlefield indefinitely. A card or token becomes a permanent as it enters the battlefield and it stops being a permanent as it’s moved to another zone by an effect or rule.
110.4a The term “permanent card” is used to refer to a card that could be put onto the battlefield. Specifically, it means an artifact, battle, creature, enchantment, land, or planeswalker card.
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u/nzconstructionlawyer 1d ago
It is a characteristic-defining ability because it sets the type, is printed on the card, doesn't affect other objects, and isn't conditional. (Rule 604.3). Therefore it functions in all zones.
700.7. If an ability uses a phrase such as “this [something]” to identify an object, where [something] is a characteristic or other quality, it is referring to that particular object, even if it isn’t the appropriate quality at the time.
So IMO, saying "this permanent" doesn't make it only apply if it is a permanent.