refined sensibilities

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "refined sensibilities" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who has a sophisticated or cultured understanding of aesthetics, emotions, or social nuances. Example: "Her refined sensibilities allowed her to appreciate the subtleties of the artwork that others overlooked."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

He was known for his refined sensibilities and exquisite taste.

The New York Times

The Romantic weeps, with his friends, because they are showing each other their refined sensibilities.

The Guardian - Opinion

Does It Offend You, Yeah? probably offend the refined sensibilities of Yorkshire fundamentalists the Cribs and ambitious aesthete Joe Lean.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Gabriel Corte, a rich, successful and egotistical writer, views the loss of Paris as an insult to his refined sensibilities.

The New York Times - Books

"For ladies and gentlemen of refined sensibilities: a real class act, direct from London, where people talk better than you and me".

The New York Times

The sketch introduced a theme of meals savored with religious fervor, treated as sacraments and totems by diners whose refined sensibilities lead them to spew energetic nonsense.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Her eyes expressed a very refined sensibility.

The Guardian - Film

Elegance in art has more to do with decorum, good taste and refined sensibility.

The New York Times - Arts

The painter James McNeill Whistler raised the movement's ideal of the cultivation of refined sensibility to perhaps its highest point.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Nervous maladies like madness, melancholia and hysteria were regarded as signs of the refined sensibility characteristic of artists and aristocrats.

The New York Times - Style

He conjures a bygone world of postwar working-class Liverpool, with its cultivation of and assault on a refined sensibility.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character, use "refined sensibilities" to imply not only good taste, but also a capacity for deep emotional understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "refined sensibilities" in very casual or informal writing; it can sound pretentious or out of place. Opt for simpler terms like 'good taste' or 'sensitivity' in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "refined sensibilities" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig highlights examples where it describes a characteristic or quality, such as someone possessing exquisite taste or being offended by something considered crude.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Books

20%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Science

6%

Travel

2%

Style

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "refined sensibilities" is a noun phrase used to describe individuals who possess a high degree of taste, sophistication, and sensitivity to art, culture, and emotional nuances. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While it is more common in formal contexts like news, books, and arts-related discussions, it is less prevalent in casual conversation. Alternatives include phrases like "cultivated taste" or "sophisticated sensibilities". When using this phrase, be mindful of the context and audience to ensure that it aligns with the overall tone and register of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sophisticated sensibilities

Focuses on the advanced and complex nature of the emotional or aesthetic responses.

exquisite taste

Highlights the exceptional quality and discernment of the taste.

delicate sensibilities

Indicates a sensitivity to subtle or nuanced experiences.

discriminating taste

Underscores the ability to make fine distinctions and judgments.

cultivated taste

Emphasizes the acquired nature of the refined preference.

refined aesthetic

Emphasizes the cultivated appreciation of beauty and artistic expression.

discerning palate

Specifically relates to the ability to distinguish subtle differences in flavors or experiences.

acute sensitivity

Focuses on the heightened awareness and responsiveness to external stimuli.

sensitive nature

Highlights the capacity to be easily affected by external stimuli or emotions.

artistic temperament

Emphasizes the inclination toward creative expression and aesthetic appreciation.

FAQs

How can I use "refined sensibilities" in a sentence?

You can use "refined sensibilities" to describe someone who appreciates art, music, or literature in a sophisticated way. For example, "Her "refined sensibilities" allowed her to appreciate the nuances of the performance."

What's a less formal way to say "refined sensibilities"?

If you want a less formal way to express the same idea, consider using phrases like "good taste", "keen awareness", or simply "sensitivity". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "refined sensibilities" when describing food preferences?

Yes, you can use "refined sensibilities" when discussing food, especially to convey a sophisticated appreciation for subtle flavors and culinary techniques. For instance, "His "refined sensibilities" made him an excellent food critic."

How does "refined sensibilities" differ from "sophisticated tastes"?

"Refined sensibilities" encompasses a broader range of appreciation, including art, emotions, and social nuances, while "sophisticated tastes" often relates more specifically to material possessions, food, or fashion. Although similar, "refined sensibilities" suggests a deeper emotional and intellectual depth.