severe taste

USAGE SUMMARY

'severe taste' is a valid and usable phrase in written English.
It is generally used to describe a distinct or intense flavor, often a bitter or unpleasant one. For example, "I was expecting a sweet drink, but it had a severe taste that caught me off guard."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

I have a tendency to get a little severe about taste in chairs until I've sat in them.

The New Yorker

Of the more than 1,500 patients seen by the MJTSC in the past 25 years, only 2 have been documented as sour-ageusic, without, at the same time, showing evidence of a severe, generalized taste deficit.

Plosone

Nearly everything Blass owned was severe in its taste, invariably in shades of black, white, brown or beige.

The New York Times - Style

A fortnight later Mrs. Huxtable backtracked slightly, saying that "it might be too somber and severe for many tastes," but was still "careful" and "conscientious".

The New York Times

There are few more severe tests of cinematic taste than the historical drama.

The New Yorker

Instead a melancholy stream of poor people flows through what is little more than a processing centre.Second, the taste for severe retribution which has prevailed in America over the past few decades has produced such long criminal sentences that, unless represented by an expensive private lawyer, defendants can no longer afford to exercise even the few rights they do retain.

The Economist

Accidental intravenous injections of high dose local anesthetics have been reported to cause mild (such as lightheadedness or metallic taste) to severe (such as cardiac arrhythmia or epileptic seizures) adverse effects [41].

The Journal of Headache and Pain

So it is a bittersweet end of the year, but the bitter taste is severe for millions deprived of their rights in a region with so much potential".

Unicef

Orsmark-Pietras, C. et al. Transcriptome analysis reveals upregulation of bitter taste receptors in severe asthmatics.

Nature

Conversely, genetically modified flies presenting a wing-specific reduction in chemosensory cells show severe defects in both wing taste signaling and the exploratory guidance associated with chemodetection.

Cell Reports

Opposition parties, and some Belgrade residents, said the rallies were in bad taste given the severe losses the country suffered during the conflict.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "severe taste", consider pairing it with a specific flavor descriptor (e.g., "a severe metallic taste", "a severe bitter taste") for greater clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "severe taste" in situations where a pleasant or desirable taste is intended. The word "severe" generally carries a negative connotation and is better suited for describing unpleasant experiences. Instead use descriptive adjectives such as "rich", "intense", or "complex" when writing about delicious or interesting flavor profiles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "severe taste" functions as a noun phrase, where "severe" modifies the noun "taste". Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is valid in English. Its purpose is to describe a notably strong or intense flavor.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "severe taste" describes a strong and often unpleasant flavor. Ludwig AI confirms that it's a valid and usable phrase, though its usage is limited, as demonstrated by the lack of real-world examples in the provided search data. While grammatically correct, it's important to consider context when using this phrase, as "severe" often carries negative connotations. Alternatives like "strong flavor" or "intense flavor" may be more appropriate depending on the specific taste being described. Overusing "severe taste" in positive contexts should be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strong flavor

Replaces "taste" with "flavor", suggesting a powerful sensory experience.

intense flavor

Synonymous with "strong flavor", indicating a high degree of sensory stimulation.

sharp taste

Emphasizes the intensity and distinctness of the taste.

pronounced flavor

Highlights the clear and noticeable character of the flavor.

distinct taste

Indicates a clearly perceptible and unique flavor.

bitter tang

Specifies the "severe taste" as being bitter, adding a specific flavor profile.

overpowering taste

Focuses on how the taste dominates the sensory experience.

pungent flavor

Suggests a sharp and penetrating taste experience.

acrid taste

Indicates a harsh and unpleasant taste.

harsh flavor

Implies an unpleasant and rough taste.

FAQs

How can I describe a "severe taste" in more detail?

To provide a more descriptive account of a "severe taste", you can use adjectives that specify the flavor profile, such as "a severe bitter taste", "a severe metallic taste", or "a severe acidic taste". Describing the accompanying sensations can also enhance the description.

What are some synonyms for "severe taste"?

Alternatives to "severe taste" include "strong flavor", "intense flavor", "bitter tang", or "acrid taste", depending on the specific taste being described.

Is it appropriate to use "severe taste" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "severe taste" can sound somewhat informal. In formal writing, consider using more precise and descriptive language that clearly conveys the intensity and nature of the taste, such as "a pronounced bitterness" or "an overpowering acridity".

Can "severe taste" be used to describe a pleasant flavor?

Generally, no. The term "severe" implies a negative or unpleasant experience. For describing enjoyable flavors, use adjectives like "rich", "complex", "intense flavor" or "pronounced".