flavour

USAGE SUMMARY

"flavour" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the word "flavour" whenever you are referring to the different tastes in food, drinks, and other items. Example sentence: "This dish has a distinct citrus flavour that is sure to tantalize your taste buds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Economic rationalism was the flavour of the government and there was a failure by the Nationals leadership to differentiate, to show how they are arguing for their constituents as John Howard stepped into rural Australia to grab support for the Liberal party.

The Guardian

On the surface, these could just as easily be a child's whimsy, but genuine hallucinations have a very different flavour.

The Guardian

This is an excellent idea, though you will need to reduce it well for maximum flavour – make it while the joints are marinating, so it is ready to use the next day.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Roux also calls for black pudding, to "lend a similar flavour" to the sauce as the more traditional blood.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Lincolnshire sausages are some of the most famous in England, typified by their deep sage flavour.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The first breakthrough in this quest was the discovery that gold utensils, as well as looking fabulous, are inert and so do not interfere with the flavour of food or drink.

The Guardian - Tech

It's an interesting idea (although the viewer vote isn't final) and one that allows for some pretty esoteric programming: among this year's pilots is The New Yorker Presents, an odd hybrid of interviews, sketches, poems and cartoons that aims to capture the flavour of the celebrated magazine in TV form.

The Guardian

The post-Soviet period has had a Dickensian flavour for Russia – it has been the worst of times, followed by better times.

The Guardian

The label does warn you of its "subtle hop flavour", but, really, life is too short for beers this meek.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Now the two are separated, the vodka should have the oil's flavour without its fats.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The poems in the book are untitled, and given Roman numerals, a device that adds to the biblical flavour.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing food, be specific about the "flavour" profile. Instead of saying it tastes good, describe it as 'sweet', 'tangy', 'smoky' or 'rich'.

Common error

Avoid using "flavour" as a catch-all term. Instead of saying something 'adds flavour', specify what that flavour is and how it enhances the dish or experience.

Linguistic Context

The word "flavour" primarily functions as a noun, referring to the distinctive taste, smell, or quality of something. It can also function as a verb, meaning to add flavour to something. Ludwig AI confirms the versatility of "flavour".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Lifestyle

30%

Books

10%

Less common in

Travel

5%

Sport

5%

Tech

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "flavour" is a versatile word primarily used as a noun to describe the taste or quality of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it also functions as a verb. Its usage spans from culinary contexts to abstract characterizations, with a neutral formality suitable for various registers. It’s very common in news, lifestyle writing and books. When writing, be specific with your flavour descriptions rather than relying on "flavour" as a general descriptor. For alternative words consider: "taste", "aroma", or "essence". "Flavour" is generally considered grammatically correct, especially when describing specific sensory attributes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

taste

A simpler term referring to the sensation produced when a substance in the mouth reacts chemically with the taste receptor cells.

characteristic taste

Highlights the distinctive taste associated with something.

savor

Emphasizes the enjoyable taste or smell and the act of appreciating it.

aroma

Specifically refers to the scent or smell of something, often contributing to its overall perceived flavour.

tang

Refers to a sharp, distinctive flavour.

essence

Refers to the intrinsic nature or quality of something, similar to the characteristic flavour.

nuance

Indicates a subtle difference or quality in flavour.

distinctive quality

Emphasizes a unique attribute, which can be related to flavour in certain contexts.

palate

Refers to the sense of taste and appreciation of flavours.

seasoning

Describes the process or addition of ingredients to enhance flavour.

FAQs

How to use "flavour" in a sentence?

You can use "flavour" to describe the taste of food, as in "This soup has a rich, savory flavour". It can also describe the general character of something, as in "The festival had a distinctly international flavour".

What can I say instead of "flavour"?

You can use alternatives like "taste", "aroma", or "essence" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "flavour" or "flavor"?

"Flavour" is the British English spelling, while "flavor" is the American English spelling. Both are correct, depending on the regional context.

What's the difference between "flavour" and "seasoning"?

"Flavour" refers to the overall taste experience, while "seasoning" refers to the ingredients used to enhance or modify that taste.