epicurean

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'epicurean' is correct and usable in written English.
It is an adjective meaning having the educated and refined tastes of an epicure, with the connotation of being a connoisseur of good food and drink. For example, you can use it in a sentence like this: "The gourmet cooked an epicurean feast for the dinner party guests."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Alma has the epicurean Hitchcock on a diet and one senses trouble in paradise.

The Guardian - Film

This is good news for epicurean Americans awaiting the imminent invasion of cicadas.

The Economist

Pok Pok, Portland, AmericaOregon's most populous city is a haven for those with an epicurean lean, with everything from artisan bakeries and microbreweries to cupcake shops and Italian, French and Peruvian eateries (among many others).

The Economist

Friendship was Lady Eden's gift, and her memoirs are full of vivid sketches of the men (usually men) she knew: Isaiah Berlin (a "torrent of words"), Lucian Freud ("exotic and sharp"), Cyril Connolly (a "civilised, indolent epicurean"), "steely" Cecil Beaton and many others.

The Economist

Epicurean physics proves that this is impossible.

SEP

Although Epicurus' doctrines teach the value of a quiet life in a specially constructed Epicurean community and decry the search for fame, atomist theory is also regarded as a cure for the troubles afflicting others outside the community, and there are certainly Epicurean texts written for a wider audience.

SEP

The majority of his explicit references to Plato are to be found in the work Against Celsus, a reply to a dead polemicist who is nowadays characterized as a middle Platonist, though Origen hints that he may have been an Epicurean (Against Celsus 1.8; see further Bergjan 2001).

SEP

Happily, we have a rather well-rounded picture of Gassendi's intellectual pursuits, on top of his Epicurean projects.

SEP

Key to understanding the ethics of managing an Epicurean community is Philodemus' treatise (PHerc. 1471) dedicated to the school's practice of frank criticism (parrhêsia).

SEP

It is to the running of an Epicurean community, the role of the sage in it and the relations between its members that much of Philodemus' work is devoted.

SEP

Very difficult and controversial is the interpretation of the reasonings applied to experience (epilogismoi, see Section 2.2.5.2) used by his Epicurean opponents to show that the sage will feel thumos and their rebuttal by Philodemus (cf. Delattre 2009).

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "epicurean" to describe a refined appreciation for sensory pleasures, particularly food and drink, but be mindful of its association with philosophical hedonism.

Common error

Don't use "epicurean" simply to describe any pursuit of pleasure. The term implies a refined and thoughtful approach to enjoyment, not just base gratification.

Linguistic Context

The word "epicurean" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe something related to refined taste, pleasure, or the philosophy of Epicurus. As Ludwig AI explains, it connotes educated and refined tastes, especially concerning food and comfort.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "epicurean" is a versatile term with roots in philosophy and a continued presence in contemporary language. As Ludwig AI indicates, it denotes a refined taste for pleasure, particularly in food and comfort. While often used to describe a gourmet or hedonist, it's crucial to recognize its connection to the philosophy of Epicurus. The term is considered grammatically correct and is commonly found in scientific and news media contexts. Related phrases like "hedonistic" or "gourmet" offer alternatives, each with slightly different nuances. Remember to use "epicurean" thoughtfully, avoiding confusion with simple self-indulgence and appreciating its rich historical and philosophical background.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Epicurean philosophy

Refers specifically to the philosophical system of Epicurus, the origin of the term "epicurean".

pleasure-seeking

Directly describes the pursuit of pleasure, a core element of the "epicurean" philosophy.

hedonistic

Focuses on pleasure as the primary principle, similar to one aspect of "epicurean".

connoisseur of pleasure

Describes someone with expert knowledge and appreciation of pleasure, akin to an "epicurean".

gourmet

Emphasizes refined taste and appreciation of fine food, a specific manifestation of "epicurean" taste.

refined tastes

Highlights the cultivated and discerning aspect of an "epicurean" approach.

voluptuous

Relates to sensory pleasure and indulgence, a characteristic sometimes associated with "epicurean".

sensual enjoyment

Focuses on the appreciation of sensory experiences, related to "epicurean" values.

sybaritic

Suggests luxurious and self-indulgent living, an extreme form of the "epicurean" pursuit of pleasure.

luxurious lifestyle

Suggests the association of luxury with "epicurean" pursuit of pleasure and comfort.

FAQs

How can I use "epicurean" in a sentence?

You can use "epicurean" to describe someone who enjoys fine food and drink, or to refer to the philosophy of Epicurus. For example: "He was an "epicurean" traveler, always seeking out the best restaurants." or "Epicurean philosophy emphasizes pleasure as the greatest good."

What's the difference between "epicurean" and "hedonistic"?

"Epicurean" implies a refined and thoughtful approach to pleasure, while "hedonistic" suggests a more unrestrained and self-indulgent pursuit of pleasure.

What are some synonyms for "epicurean" when describing food?

When describing food, you could use synonyms like "gourmet", "delicious", or "exquisite" instead of "epicurean".

Is it correct to use "epicurean" to describe a simple, everyday pleasure?

While technically correct, using "epicurean" for a simple pleasure might be seen as exaggerated. It's more appropriate when describing a sophisticated or carefully cultivated enjoyment.