a forbidden delight

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a forbidden delight" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is enjoyable but considered taboo or not allowed. Example: "The novel explored themes of love and betrayal, presenting a forbidden delight that captivated its readers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But like a lot of comedy, the appeal is in the forbidden delight in hearing highly inappropriate things spoken into a microphone.

The Guardian - Books

Many spices were harvested only to be burned to repel insects, but, the more pungently they repelled, the more men desired them — the forbidden delight.

The New Yorker

HONG KONG — Visitors from mainland China climb the narrow stairs to a cramped room here filled with forbidden delights: shelves of scandal-packed exposés about their Communist Party masters.

The New York Times

It is true to say that white Americans, unlike white Brits, are relative newcomers to the forbidden delights of Salafist jihadism, but pre-9/11, terrorists in the US were almost all honkies who didn't give a shit about Allah or wearing turbans.

Vice

A forbidden thrill!

The New Yorker

Today this a forbidden thought.

The Guardian

"Sex was a forbidden subject.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was a forbidden subject.

Huffington Post

There is probably no better cast available in the world, so I was surprised and delighted to hear the youthful OperaLoft cast completely hold their own in spite of a forbidding comparison.

Huffington Post

They are far from a forbidding presence.

The New York Times - Sports

My dad was quite a forbidding figure.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a forbidden delight" when you want to emphasize the allure and excitement that comes from engaging in something that is considered off-limits or taboo.

Common error

While evocative, avoid using "a forbidden delight" in formal or professional writing where a more neutral or objective tone is required. Opt for phrases like "unconventional approach" or "innovative solution" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a forbidden delight" functions as a noun phrase, where "forbidden" acts as an adjective modifying "delight". Ludwig indicates that this phrase is used to describe something that is enjoyable but considered taboo or not allowed.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a forbidden delight" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the enticing nature of something prohibited or taboo. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability for written English, noting its capacity to portray enjoyment derived from restricted or unconventional experiences. While typically found in news and media contexts, its use in formal writing should be approached cautiously, as it may introduce an unintended informal tone. Alternative phrases like "illicit pleasure" or "taboo enjoyment" can offer similar meanings, while maintaining register appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Illicit pleasure

Focuses on the unlawful or prohibited aspect of the enjoyment.

Taboo enjoyment

Highlights the societal restrictions or prohibitions surrounding the pleasure.

Guilty pleasure

Emphasizes the feeling of guilt or shame associated with enjoying something.

Prohibited indulgence

Stresses the act of allowing oneself something that is not permitted.

Forbidden fruit

A common idiom that refers to something tempting because it is not allowed.

Unlawful gratification

Highlights the illegal nature of the satisfaction derived.

Clandestine delight

Emphasizes the secretive or hidden nature of the enjoyment.

Stolen pleasure

Focuses on the act of taking or obtaining pleasure illicitly.

Secret joy

Highlights that happiness is kept hidden.

Underground thrill

Indicates an excitement that occurs outside of established norms.

FAQs

How can I use "a forbidden delight" in a sentence?

You can use "a forbidden delight" to describe something that is enjoyable but considered taboo or wrong. For example, "The novel explored themes of love and betrayal, presenting "a forbidden delight" that captivated its readers."

What's the difference between "a forbidden delight" and "a guilty pleasure"?

"A forbidden delight" suggests something is off-limits or taboo, while "a guilty pleasure" implies enjoyment tinged with shame or guilt. The former focuses on external restrictions, and the latter on internal conflict.

What are some synonyms for "a forbidden delight"?

Alternatives include "an illicit pleasure", "a taboo enjoyment", or "forbidden fruit", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a forbidden delight" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a forbidden delight" is generally more suited for creative or informal writing. In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "an unconventional approach" or "an innovative solution" to maintain a professional tone.