Final answer:
The incorrect characteristic of the basic level in the hierarchy of theory is that shapes at this level are less common to each other, which is not true as shapes tend to be more similar, facilitating learning and categorization.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characteristic that is NOT true of the basic level in the hierarchy of theory is D. We first acquire these words where shapes are less common to each other. At the basic level, children and language learners tend to learn words where shapes and visual appearances are similar, contributing to easier categorization and recognition. The basic level is essential in categorization as it allows for the efficient processing of information and comprehension due to the shared characteristics among items within a category.
When learning a language, children learn words at this basic level early, and these words are often acquired before more specific or abstract terms. Moreover, basic level categories are learned quickly, and this is true regardless of whether one is learning their first or a new language. Contrary to statement D, shapes at the basic level are more, not less, common to each other, which facilitates learning and recognition, reflecting a mix of innate language acquisition capabilities and environmental interaction.