bitter taste

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bitter taste" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to the sensation of tasting something bitter. Example: "The medicine left a bitter taste in my mouth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The process can leave a bitter taste.

The New York Times

"It leaves a bitter taste.

The Guardian

The outcome leaves a deeply bitter taste.

The New York Times

This leaves a familiar bitter taste.

The Guardian

This has left a very bitter taste.

The Guardian - Money

The bitter taste is still there.

The New York Times - Sports

But she retains a bitter taste.

The New York Times

Within Brussels has sprouted Bitter taste for Blair.

Independent

The bitter taste of envy brings us all down.

The New Yorker

You write, "A bitter taste has suddenly invaded our souls.

The New Yorker

"It left kind of a bitter taste," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bitter taste" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes the negative experience or emotion you're describing. For example: "The failed negotiation left a bitter taste in her mouth."

Common error

Avoid awkwardly juxtaposing the literal and figurative meanings of "bitter taste". Ensure your sentence maintains a consistent tone and focus.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bitter taste" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a sensory experience or, metaphorically, a negative emotion or experience. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

29%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Huffington Post

7%

Encyclopedia Britannica

1%

BBC

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bitter taste" is a common noun phrase used to describe an unpleasant flavor or, metaphorically, a negative experience. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. It appears across various contexts, including news, scientific literature, and general writing. When using "bitter taste", ensure the context clarifies whether you're referring to a literal flavor or a metaphorical feeling. Be mindful of mixing literal and figurative usages awkwardly. Related phrases can offer more descriptive alternatives depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unpleasant aftertaste

Focuses on the lingering negative sensation.

disagreeable flavor

Emphasizes the unpalatable quality of the flavor.

acrid sensation

Highlights the sharp and irritating quality of the taste.

sour note

Implies a negative element within a more complex situation or experience.

distasteful experience

Shifts the focus from literal taste to a metaphorical unpleasantness.

unpleasant feeling

Broadens the scope to include any negative emotional response.

bad memory

Focuses on the lasting negative impact of an event.

resentful attitude

Indicates a lingering feeling of bitterness and indignation.

negative impression

Emphasizes the unfavorable judgment formed as a result.

disappointing outcome

Highlights the failure to meet expectations and the resulting dissatisfaction.

FAQs

How can I use "bitter taste" in a sentence?

You can use "bitter taste" literally to describe the flavor of something, or metaphorically to describe a negative experience. For example: "The medicine had a bitter taste" or "The betrayal left a bitter taste in her mouth".

What's a more descriptive way to say "bitter taste"?

Depending on the specific nuance you want to convey, consider alternatives like "unpleasant aftertaste" or "disagreeable flavor".

Is it always negative to have a "bitter taste"?

While usually associated with negative experiences or flavors, a "bitter taste" can sometimes be a necessary or even desirable component, as with certain foods or medicines. However, in metaphorical usage, it almost always implies something negative.

What's the difference between "sour taste" and "bitter taste"?

"Sour taste" refers to the acidic, sharp flavor of things like lemons or vinegar, while "bitter taste" describes the sharp, unpleasant flavor of things like quinine or unsweetened chocolate. While both are generally undesirable, they are distinct sensations.