extravagant taste

USAGE SUMMARY

"extravagant taste" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone has a preference for luxurious and expensive items or activities. For example, "His extravagant taste was evident in the lavish furnishings of his home."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Just the place to attract a man of extravagant taste.

The Washington Post

JACQUES ATTALI is a Frenchman with big ideas, best known for setting up the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and then leaving under a cloud over his extravagant taste in marble.

The Economist

The ex-president of Benin may even have lost last year's election because of his wife's extravagant taste in hats.In this section Iran's deadly earthquake Jordan asks for more First among unequals Who shall be Iran's president?

The Economist

Greek profligacy may be blamed for triggering the debt crisis that now threatens to tear the eurozone apart, but if there is one area where Berlin is less excoriating of state largesse it is in Athens's extravagant taste for arms.

The Guardian

The house remains very much hers, however, a tribute to the extravagant taste she shared with her husband (even the dogs lived in luxury, in an air-conditioned doghouse above the octagonal breakfast room).

The New York Times

"And then she mentioned the issue of outstanding payments on submarines she said Germany had been owed for over a decade". Greek profligacy may be blamed for triggering the debt crisis that now threatens to tear the eurozone apart, but if there is one area where Berlin is less excoriating of state largesse it is in Athens's extravagant taste for arms.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

His old mistress has blabbed about his extravagant tastes.

The Economist

One person's extravagant tastes aren't the government's business.

Harvard University

West certainly has the kind of extravagant tastes that require significant sums of money.

The Guardian - Music

Birds these days expect fat balls and specialist seeds, and have houses and feeders to match these extravagant tastes.

Independent

For those with less extravagant tastes, it is possible to buy a detached house for between £350,000 and £400,000.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's "extravagant taste", be specific about the items or experiences they prefer to illustrate the extent of their preference for luxury.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that someone has an "extravagant taste" without providing concrete examples. This can make the description seem vague and less impactful. Instead, mention the specific items or experiences that exemplify their taste.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extravagant taste" functions as a descriptor, modifying a noun to indicate a preference for luxury and excess. It characterizes the nature of one's taste, as seen in Ludwig's examples which describe individuals or groups with inclinations toward costly and opulent items or experiences. This usage aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "extravagant taste" is a descriptor denoting a preference for luxury and excess. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media contexts, though it is relatively rare overall. When using the phrase, it's beneficial to provide specific examples to illustrate the extent of the described taste. While generally neutral in register, the phrase often implies a certain level of wealth and a penchant for high-end items and experiences. Related phrases include "luxurious taste" and "lavish taste", offering alternative ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

luxurious taste

Substitutes "extravagant" with "luxurious", directly emphasizing the preference for high-end items.

lavish taste

Similar to "luxurious taste", using "lavish" to highlight the abundance and richness of the preferred items.

outrageous taste

Replaces "extravagant" with "outrageous", suggesting a more shocking or unconventional preference.

excessive taste

Emphasizes the over-the-top nature of the preference, suggesting a taste that goes beyond what is necessary or reasonable.

fanciful taste

Replaces "extravagant" with "fanciful", implying a taste that is imaginative and whimsical.

penchant for opulence

Uses "penchant" to describe a strong inclination towards "opulence", indicating a fondness for extravagant displays of wealth.

refined palate for luxury

Replaces the simpler noun phrase with a more elaborate expression, focusing on a cultivated appreciation for high-quality goods.

predilection for the finer things

A more general expression indicating a preference for high-quality items and experiences.

an affinity for luxury goods

Highlights the inclination towards items associated with luxury, such as designer clothing or high-end cars.

fondness for the high life

Indicates a preference for a lifestyle characterized by luxury and extravagance.

FAQs

How can I describe someone with "extravagant taste"?

You can describe someone with "extravagant taste" by highlighting their preference for luxurious items, high-end experiences, and opulent displays. For instance, you might say they have a "luxurious taste", a "fondness for the high life" or a "penchant for opulence".

What's the difference between "extravagant taste" and "good taste"?

"Extravagant taste" implies a preference for luxury and excess, while "good taste" suggests an appreciation for what is aesthetically pleasing and refined, regardless of cost. Someone with "good taste" might appreciate minimalist design, while someone with "extravagant taste" might prefer ornate and expensive items.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "extravagant taste"?

The phrase "extravagant taste" is appropriate in contexts where you want to describe someone's preference for luxurious or high-end items. It can be used in literature, journalism, or everyday conversation when discussing someone's lifestyle, preferences, or spending habits.

What are some synonyms for "extravagant taste" that I can use to add variety to my writing?

Some synonyms for "extravagant taste" include "lavish taste", "luxurious taste", "excessive taste", and "penchant for opulence". These alternatives can help you express the same idea with different nuances.