a taste for good

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a taste for good" is not correct in standard written English.
It may be intended to express an appreciation for quality, but it lacks clarity and completeness. Example: "She has a taste for good wine, always choosing the finest bottles for her collection."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

And a taste for good living.

The New York Times

Booksellers beware: that kindly gentleman browsing the shelves might be a book thief with a taste for good literature.

The New Yorker

That would probably be fine with anyone in the neighborhood with a taste for good northern Italian food.

The New York Times - Food

Acquaintances remark on his exquisite manners – as well as a taste for good cigars supplied by ever-attentive aides.

The Guardian

Many celebrities with a taste for good food veer into the restaurant business, but Mr. Pierce has taken a different tack.

The New York Times - Food

Westchester County is enjoying a boom in boutique hot-dog joints run by young entrepreneurs with a taste for good mustard and an eye on the bottom line.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

But his time in D.C. ― he was well known as a party guy and player ― had given him a taste for the good life, not just the good cause.

Huffington Post

He still had a taste for a good salt beef sandwich.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But the going was not always easy for the sleek Capitol Hill operator with a taste for the good life.

Independent

Like Richard Hawley they are caught between progress and tradition: once people get a taste for the good stuff, they can't live without it.

The Guardian - Music

But the tale of the two clean-cut super-achieving Jewish boys from North London who got in a fight has riveted a nation with a taste for a good brawl.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to "a taste for good" food, wine, or art, be specific about what constitutes "good" in that context. For example, instead of saying "He has a taste for good wine", specify "He appreciates complex, full-bodied wines with earthy notes".

Common error

Avoid using "a taste for good" without further clarification, as the definition of "good" is subjective. Vague statements like "She has a taste for good things" lack informative value. Instead, elaborate on the specific qualities or characteristics that define "good" in that context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase functions as a descriptor of personal preference or inclination. It signifies an affinity for items or experiences considered to be of high quality. While it is used across different contexts, Ludwig AI notes that it is often considered grammatically questionable. As shown by the provided Ludwig examples it's commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a taste for good" describes an appreciation for quality, but Ludwig AI indicates it is not considered grammatically precise in standard written English. While frequently used, particularly in News & Media, it's essential to specify what 'good' refers to, such as food, wine, or art. Alternatives include "an appreciation for quality" or "a preference for excellence". To enhance clarity, avoid vagueness and provide context to define what constitutes "good" in your specific scenario. Overall, while commonly understood, precise language is always recommended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an appreciation for quality

Replaces "taste" with a more general appreciation, focusing on the quality aspect.

a preference for excellence

Highlights a deliberate choice of superior things, rather than a mere liking.

a penchant for the finer things

Suggests a habitual inclination towards luxury and sophistication.

an eye for quality craftsmanship

Specifically refers to the ability to recognize and value well-made items.

a liking for well-made products

Focuses on the enjoyment derived from items of good manufacture.

a craving for superior goods

Emphasizes a strong desire for high-quality or luxurious items.

a fondness for exceptional items

Indicates a warm affection for things that stand out as remarkable.

a weakness for premium brands

Points to a susceptibility to the allure of well-known and respected brands.

a desire for top-tier merchandise

Denotes a clear aspiration to own or experience the best available products.

a partiality to high-end services

Specifies a preference for services that are luxurious and of superior quality.

FAQs

What does it mean to have "a taste for good" things?

Having "a taste for good" things generally means you appreciate and enjoy high-quality or luxurious items and experiences. This can range from food and wine to art and travel, but it often implies a discernment for finer details and superior craftsmanship.

What can I say instead of "a taste for good"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "an appreciation for quality", "a preference for excellence", or "a penchant for the finer things".

Is it correct to say someone has "a taste for good" or is there a better way to phrase it?

While understandable, "a taste for good" is not the most grammatically precise. It's better to specify what they have a taste for, such as "a taste for good wine" or "a taste for good design". Alternatively, use phrases like "an appreciation for quality".

How do you develop "a taste for good" things?

Developing "a taste for good" things often involves exposure to and experience with high-quality items and experiences. This can be cultivated through education, travel, and mindful engagement with the world around you.