sinful indulgences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sinful indulgences" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or behaviors that are considered morally wrong or excessive pleasures that one might indulge in. Example: "Despite knowing the consequences, she couldn't resist the allure of her sinful indulgences during the holiday season."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Ever since the 19th century, when novels were considered relatively sinful indulgences, leisure and fiction-reading have been closely associated.

The Guardian - Books

But in his nearly quarter-century of constructing a multimedia empire out of an intimate understanding of caulk, Bob Vila had never set a work-booted foot on a project in New York City, better known for its skyscrapers and sinful indulgences than its desire for a spanking new front porch.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

If some men did not derive a kind of manly self-affirmation from eating meat, or some women feel that nibbling on a piece of chocolate is a sinful indulgence, such tropes would never have arisen.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Christians associated luxury with sinful self-indulgence.

The Economist

It engages, she fears in her darker moments, a "sinful self-indulgence".

The New Yorker

Some Christians (by their understanding of the Bible or of Christian tradition) consider alcohol to be a gift from God that makes life more joyous, but over-indulgence leading to drunkenness is sinful or at least a vice.

Wikipedia

Just as indulgences allowed the rich to feel better about sinful behaviour without actually changing their ways, carbon offsets allow us to "buy complacency, political apathy and self-satisfaction", Monbiot claimed.

The Guardian

and sinful behavior.

The New York Times

Some think it sinful.

The New Yorker

"It's sinful.

The New York Times - Sports

"We are not sinful.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sinful indulgences", ensure the context aligns with the intended implication of moral transgression or excessive self-gratification. Consider whether a lighter term like "guilty pleasures" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "sinful indulgences" in casual conversation or lighthearted writing, as its strong connotations might sound overly dramatic or out of place. Choose a more appropriate alternative to convey the meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sinful indulgences" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition, describing activities or desires perceived as morally wrong. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sinful indulgences" denotes pleasures or activities viewed as morally wrong or excessive. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct but relatively rare, primarily appearing in News & Media contexts. Its purpose is to express disapproval or moral judgment, carrying a neutral tone. When using the phrase, it's crucial to consider the implications of moral transgression and its suitability in different contexts. Alternatives such as "guilty pleasures" or "forbidden delights" may be more appropriate depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

guilty pleasures

Focuses on the enjoyment aspect, with a lighter tone, implying mild shame rather than sin.

immoral desires

Emphasizes the violation of moral codes, shifting from indulgence to inherent wrongness.

forbidden delights

Highlights the allure of something off-limits, with a slightly romantic or adventurous connotation.

wicked temptations

Introduces a sense of active enticement towards wrongdoing, suggesting a struggle against one's conscience.

unethical excesses

Frames the actions as violations of ethical principles, with a focus on the immoderate nature of the behavior.

reprehensible self-gratification

Condemns the act as deserving of criticism, emphasizing the selfishness involved.

debauched activities

Implies a state of corruption and moral decay, suggesting a loss of restraint.

licentious behavior

Refers to disregard for established rules, focusing on the freedom to act without moral boundaries.

hedonistic pursuits

Highlights the pursuit of pleasure as the primary goal, without necessarily implying sin, but suggesting a potentially problematic focus.

unrestrained gratification

Emphasizes the lack of control or moderation, suggesting a potential for harm or excess.

FAQs

What does "sinful indulgences" mean?

The phrase "sinful indulgences" refers to pleasures or activities considered morally wrong or excessive, suggesting a transgression of religious or ethical principles.

What are some alternatives to "sinful indulgences"?

You can use alternatives like "guilty pleasures", "forbidden delights", or "wicked temptations" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "sinful indulgences" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "sinful indulgences" carries a strong moral judgment. Use it judiciously in formal writing, ensuring it aligns with the tone and purpose of your piece. Consider alternatives like "unethical excesses" or "reprehensible self-gratification" for a less emotive tone.

How can I use "sinful indulgences" in a sentence?

You can use "sinful indulgences" to describe behaviors or desires considered morally wrong, such as "Despite knowing the consequences, she couldn't resist the allure of her "sinful indulgences" during the holiday season."