a taste for fine

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a taste for fine" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone's preference or appreciation for high-quality or luxurious items, often in the context of food, drink, or art. Example: "She has a taste for fine wines, often selecting the most exquisite bottles for her collection."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

He liked the city, developing a taste for fine food and nice clothes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Known as Roachie to family and friends, Mr. Roach had a taste for fine red wines.

The New York Times

He developed a taste for fine wine and stylish clothes.He retained one habit from his guerrilla years: ruthlessness.

The Economist

Thanks to his mother's inheritance and extravagance, he was given an aristocrat's education and a taste for fine things.

The New York Times - Books

Patti Blagojevich, who has stood by her husband's side throughout his impeachment and trial, also has a taste for fine clothing.

The New York Times

He plays Raymond "Red" Reddington, an internationally wanted terrorist with a taste for fine dining, swanky hotels and meandering, flirtatious banter with policemen.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Legend has it that Peking duck and other imperial fare were smuggled out of palace, giving the masses a taste for finer dining.

BBC

It legitimized the connoisseurship of violence, which does not present itself as an appetite for cheap thrills, but rather as a taste for the finer things.

The New York Times

The other version of learning how to eat is gourmandism; today's prevalent formulation appears to be deciding to squelch one's conscience and philosophic systems — which for most of us, regardless of background, place high value on moderation and balance — in the interest of developing a taste for the finer things.

The New Yorker

I'd consider myself a moderately educated listener with a solid ear and a taste for the finer things.

TechCrunch

Prosecutors suggested Mr. Lugo also had an acquired taste for fine wines: Ms. Hast said there was an open bench warrant for Mr. Lugo, stemming from the theft of three bottles reportedly worth a total of $6,000 from Gary's Wine and Marketplace in Wayne, N.J.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a taste for fine", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific items or experiences the subject appreciates (e.g., "a taste for fine wines" or "a taste for fine art").

Common error

Avoid using "a taste for fine" in contexts where a more specific term would be more appropriate. For example, instead of saying "He has a taste for fine", specify "He has a taste for fine dining" to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a taste for fine" functions as a prepositional phrase that describes a preference or inclination towards high-quality or luxurious items and experiences. As evidenced by Ludwig, it's often used to characterize someone's refined preferences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a taste for fine" is a commonly used prepositional phrase that effectively describes someone's appreciation for high-quality and luxurious things. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness, demonstrating its frequent use in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. It indicates a preference for superior quality, and is generally used in a neutral to professional register. When employing this phrase, clarity is key: specify the area in which the subject has a refined "taste" to avoid ambiguity. Remember also that equivalent expressions, like "an appreciation for quality", can add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an appreciation for quality

Focuses on the inherent quality rather than the act of tasting or experiencing.

a fondness for luxury

Highlights the luxurious aspect, emphasizing comfort and opulence.

a penchant for excellence

Shifts the focus to a desire for superior quality and performance.

an inclination toward elegance

Emphasizes refinement and graceful style.

a preference for the exquisite

Highlights the rare and delicately beautiful nature of the preferred items.

a liking for superior goods

Directly expresses a preference for high-quality merchandise.

a weakness for refined things

Indicates a vulnerability or susceptibility to finely crafted objects.

a passion for high-end items

Emphasizes a strong enthusiasm for expensive and luxurious goods.

a craving for top-tier experiences

Highlights a desire for premium and exceptional experiences.

a soft spot for premium products

Suggests a gentle affection for high-quality merchandise.

FAQs

How can I use "a taste for fine" in a sentence?

You can use "a taste for fine" to describe someone's preference for high-quality or luxurious items or experiences. For example, "She developed "a taste for fine wine" during her travels in Europe".

What's an alternative to saying "a taste for fine"?

Alternatives include "an appreciation for quality", "a fondness for luxury", or "a preference for the exquisite", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a taste for finer things" instead of "a taste for fine things"?

While "a taste for finer things" is a common variant, "a taste for fine things" is also perfectly acceptable and often used. The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis, there is no real difference in meaning.

What does it mean when someone is described as having "a taste for fine" things?

It indicates that they appreciate and seek out high-quality, often luxurious, items or experiences. This could range from "fine art" and "fine wine" to "fine dining" and "fine clothing".