is a luxury

USAGE SUMMARY

"is a luxury" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is not essential, but which brings a certain level of pleasure or comfort. For example, "Having a housekeeper to take care of the chores is a luxury that many of us can only dream of."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Caviar is a luxury.

The New York Times - Magazine

Caring is a luxury.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is a luxury.

The New Yorker

Home-cooking is a luxury.

The Economist

Caring is a luxury'.

The Guardian

Chicken is a luxury.

The Guardian - Books

"Marriage is a luxury.

The Guardian - Money

Architecture is a luxury.

The New York Times - Arts

Heartbreak is a luxury.

The New Yorker

Bledsoe is a luxury to the Clippers.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

So heating is a luxury.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is a luxury" to emphasize that something is not a necessity but provides comfort, pleasure, or advantage. For example, "Having a personal chef is a luxury".

Common error

Avoid using "is a luxury" when describing essential items or services. It's inappropriate to say "Clean water is a luxury" in contexts where it should be a basic right.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is a luxury" functions as a predicate nominative, linking a subject to a noun that renames or defines it. It classifies the subject as something non-essential and enjoyable. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is a luxury" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe something desirable but not essential. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It appears frequently in news and media, formal business contexts, and science, conveying that the subject is an added benefit or pleasure rather than a necessity. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to use it appropriately, avoiding its application to items or services that should be considered basic rights. Consider using alternatives like "is a privilege" or "is a treat" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is a privilege

This alternative emphasizes the exclusivity and advantage associated with something.

is a treat

This alternative highlights the pleasurable and indulgent aspect of something.

is an indulgence

This alternative suggests a more extravagant and less necessary element.

is a non-essential

This alternative directly points out the lack of necessity.

is an extravagance

This emphasizes the excessive and costly nature of something.

is a perk

Focuses on the advantageous and beneficial aspect.

is a bonus

Highlights the additional and supplementary nature.

is a comfort

Emphasizes the ease and relaxation provided.

is a delicacy

Indicates something rare, special, and appreciated.

is a convenience

Highlights the ease and simplicity it provides.

FAQs

How can I use "is a luxury" in a sentence?

Use "is a luxury" to describe something that is desirable but not essential. For example, "Having a large backyard in the city "is a luxury"".

What phrases are similar to "is a luxury"?

Alternatives include "is a privilege", "is a treat", or "is an indulgence". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it inappropriate to use "is a luxury"?

It's inappropriate when describing items or services that are fundamental rights or basic necessities. For example, saying "Healthcare "is a luxury"" can be insensitive in contexts where healthcare access is a serious issue.

What's the difference between "is a luxury" and "is a privilege"?

"Is a luxury" emphasizes the non-essential and often pleasurable nature of something, while "is a privilege" highlights the exclusive access or advantage one has to something. Both are similar, but "is a privilege" emphasizes that it is not available to everyone.