self-indulgence

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "self-indulgence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone who engages in excessive or unrestrained gratification of their own desires, appetites, or whims. Example sentence: His lack of self-control inevitably led to prolonged bouts of self-indulgence.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's self-indulgence.

The New York Times - Magazine

Self-indulgence: Concerts.

The New York Times - Magazine

Christians associated luxury with sinful self-indulgence.

The Economist

Biggest Self-Indulgence: Flying first class.

The New York Times - Magazine

"What self-indulgence and waste".

The New York Times - Books

Self-confidence - or self-indulgence?

The Guardian - Tech

What leads to this self-indulgence?

The New York Times

But their self-indulgence has a cost.

The New York Times

There isn't time for self-indulgence.

The New Yorker

That's the self-indulgence of a billionaire".

The New Yorker

Biggest self-indulgence: "A massage every week.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "self-indulgence" in contexts where simple enjoyment or relaxation is intended. It carries a connotation of excess and potential negativity.

Common error

Be careful not to use "self-indulgence" when you mean self-care. Self-care involves healthy activities that promote well-being, while "self-indulgence" implies excessive and possibly harmful gratification.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "self-indulgence" functions primarily as a noun, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the act or state of excessively gratifying one's desires. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and commonly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "self-indulgence" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe excessive or unrestrained gratification of one's own desires. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for use in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using "self-indulgence", consider specifying the area of indulgence and avoid confusing it with self-care. Alternatives such as "excessive gratification" or "unrestrained gratification" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey. While often carrying a negative connotation, the term can be used neutrally to describe choices or lifestyles without necessarily implying moral judgment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excessive gratification

Focuses on the act of fulfilling desires to an extreme degree.

unrestrained gratification

Emphasizes the lack of limits or control in satisfying desires.

hedonistic pursuit

Highlights the devotion to pleasure as a primary goal.

immoderate behavior

Focuses on the lack of moderation or temperance in one's actions.

decadent lifestyle

Suggests a luxurious and self-gratifying way of living, often with negative connotations.

indulgent excess

Highlights the overabundance of pleasurable experiences.

lack of restraint

Emphasizes the absence of self-control.

profligacy

Focuses on wasteful and extravagant spending.

uncontrolled desires

Emphasizes the lack of management over one's own cravings.

dissipation

Suggests a squandering of resources or energy on pleasure.

FAQs

How can I use "self-indulgence" in a sentence?

You can use "self-indulgence" to describe engaging in activities that excessively gratify one's desires. For example, "His weekend was a blur of pure "self-indulgence", filled with rich food and expensive wines."

What are some synonyms for "self-indulgence"?

Alternatives to "self-indulgence" include "excessive gratification", "unrestrained gratification", and "hedonistic pursuit". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "self-indulgence" always negative?

While "self-indulgence" often carries a negative connotation due to its association with excess, it can sometimes be used neutrally or even positively to describe a deserved treat or relaxation. The tone is often context-dependent.

What is the difference between self-care and "self-indulgence"?

Self-care involves activities that promote well-being and health, while "self-indulgence" implies excessive gratification, often to the point of being detrimental. The key difference is the intention and the outcome of the activity.