A guilty pleasure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A guilty pleasure" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that one enjoys despite feeling that it is not generally held in high regard or is considered embarrassing. Example: "Watching reality TV shows is my guilty pleasure; I know they're not great, but I can't help but enjoy them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A guilty pleasure – as hot dogs should be.

Independent

We feel a guilty pleasure coming on.

Independent

I still consider it a guilty pleasure.

The New York Times

Does this sound like a guilty pleasure?

The New Yorker

Are they a guilty pleasure?

The Guardian - Film

Journalists have a guilty pleasure.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Instead it's a guilty pleasure.

The New York Times

Today, the series is a guilty pleasure.

The New York Times - Arts

Steve McQueen was almost a guilty pleasure.

The Guardian - Music

Not a guilty pleasure, just a pleasure.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

THAT smoke is a guilty pleasure.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing personal habits or preferences, using "a guilty pleasure" can soften potentially judgmental reactions by acknowledging the activity may be seen as unconventional.

Common error

While "a guilty pleasure" is widely understood, overuse can weaken your writing. Consider alternatives like "a secret indulgence" or describing the specific appeal to create a more engaging narrative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a guilty pleasure" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or object. As Ludwig AI states, it describes something that one enjoys despite feeling that it is not generally held in high regard or is considered embarrassing. The phrase modifies a noun.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Academia

1%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a guilty pleasure" is a common phrase used to describe something enjoyable that may not be universally admired. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English, often to indicate a self-aware or humorous enjoyment of unconventional or lowbrow activities. Grammatically a noun phrase, it serves to express enjoyment while acknowledging societal or personal reservations. While frequently found in news and media sources, careful usage is advised to avoid cliché. Consider alternative expressions like "secret indulgence" for a fresh perspective. Be proud of your guilty pleasure!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Secret indulgence

Focuses on the hidden nature of the enjoyment.

Hidden delight

Highlights the pleasurable aspect that is kept private.

Guilty secret

Emphasizes the feeling of shame associated with the enjoyment.

Indulgence I'm ashamed of

Directly states the feeling of shame linked to the activity.

Thing I secretly enjoy

Highlights the secretive aspect of the enjoyment.

Slightly embarrassing pleasure

Emphasizes the slight embarrassment felt when indulging.

Source of quiet shame and joy

Contrasts the negative and positive emotions felt simultaneously.

My weakness

Highlights the lack of control when indulging.

Something I'm sheepish about liking

Directly points out the sheepish feeling connected to the enjoyment.

My secret obsession

Emphasizes the obsessive and secretive nature of the enjoyment.

FAQs

How can I use "a guilty pleasure" in a sentence?

You can use "a guilty pleasure" to describe something you enjoy despite knowing it might be considered uncool or lowbrow. For example, "Reality TV is "a guilty pleasure" of mine, even though I know it's not high art".

What are some alternatives to "a guilty pleasure"?

Alternatives include "secret indulgence", "hidden delight", or "something I secretly enjoy". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to describe something as "a guilty pleasure"?

Not necessarily. While it implies a slight sense of shame or embarrassment, describing something as "a guilty pleasure" can also be a lighthearted way to admit enjoying something unconventional. It acknowledges a potential judgment without necessarily agreeing with it.

When should I avoid using the phrase "a guilty pleasure"?

Avoid using "a guilty pleasure" when describing something that is genuinely harmful or unethical. The phrase is best reserved for harmless indulgences or harmless interests that are not mainstream.