an epicure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an epicure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone who takes particular pleasure in fine food and drink, often with a connotation of sophistication or discernment. Example: "As an epicure, she always seeks out the best restaurants and gourmet experiences when traveling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Are you a vegan or an epicure?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Benjamin Dreyer sees language the way an epicure sees food.

The New York Times - Books

He became an epicure of his own extinction.

The New Yorker

Mr Spitz offers the reader a portrait of an epicure, and of a life profoundly full, blessed and well lived.

The Economist

The president of Ark Restaurants, Michael Weinstein, is a businessman, not an epicure, and he serves a fairly dreadful cup of coffee.

The New Yorker

Norman Guile, in charge of the food shops of the store, says they will include a Gourmet and Food Shop, an Epicure Center and the Cheese World.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Ask any epicure, a good meal is more than just taste.

Forbes

Mortdecai is barely moral: a fastidious epicure, an outrageous hedonist who takes more care over his food and drink, and especially his drink, than anything else.

The Guardian - Books

An avid golfer, Jim was an incurable epicure and had interests as diverse as country and opera music, foie gras and barbecue, burgundy and beer.

The New York Times

Whether you consider yourself a foodie, bon vivant, epicure, connoisseur, gastronome, gourmet, gourmand, grazer or nosher - you will understand.

HuffPost

He was an olfactory epicure.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an epicure", consider the context and whether a simpler term like "gourmet" or "foodie" might be more appropriate for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "an epicure" in very informal contexts; it can sound pretentious. Opt for alternatives like "food lover" or "foodie" in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an epicure" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an appositive to describe someone who has refined and sophisticated tastes in food and drink. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an epicure" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe someone with refined tastes in food and drink, as supported by Ludwig. While versatile, its usage leans toward neutral to formal contexts, often appearing in news and media. When writing, consider if a simpler term like "foodie" might be more suitable for informal settings. The phrase's communicative purpose is to convey sophistication and discernment. Related phrases include "a connoisseur of fine food" and "a gastronome", each carrying subtle nuances in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a gastronome

Similar to "an epicure" but often implies a more scholarly approach to food and cuisine.

a connoisseur of fine food

Focuses on expertise and deep appreciation, similar to "an epicure" but emphasizes knowledge.

a discerning palate

Highlights the ability to distinguish subtle flavors and appreciate quality, similar to being "an epicure".

a gourmand

Implies a more enthusiastic and perhaps indulgent enjoyment of food than "an epicure".

a gourmet

A simpler term for someone who enjoys high-quality food, less formal than "an epicure".

a sophisticated diner

Focuses on the refined tastes and habits of someone who enjoys quality food.

a food enthusiast

Highlights passion and interest in food, broader than "an epicure" as it doesn't necessarily imply sophistication.

a lover of fine dining

Emphasizes the enjoyment of dining experiences, a more descriptive alternative.

a culinary expert

Stresses knowledge and skill in food preparation and appreciation, rather than pure enjoyment.

a bon vivant

Broader term for someone who enjoys the good life, including fine food and drink.

FAQs

How can I use "an epicure" in a sentence?

You can use "an epicure" to describe someone with refined tastes in food and drink. For example, "He was known as "an epicure", always seeking out the finest wines and gourmet dishes."

What is a simpler way to say "an epicure"?

Simpler alternatives to "an epicure" include "foodie", "gourmet", or "food lover". These terms are less formal and more commonly used in everyday conversation.

What is the difference between "an epicure" and "a gourmand"?

"An epicure" generally refers to someone with refined and sophisticated tastes in food and drink, while "a gourmand" implies someone who enjoys eating large quantities of food with great relish. The distinction lies in the emphasis on quality versus quantity.

Is it correct to use "an epicure" to describe someone who simply enjoys eating a lot?

While someone who enjoys eating a lot might appreciate good food, the term "an epicure" implies a more discerning and sophisticated appreciation of flavors, ingredients, and culinary techniques. "Gourmand" might be more appropriate in that case.