somewhat extravagant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "somewhat extravagant" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is moderately excessive or lavish, often in terms of spending or style. Example: "The wedding was somewhat extravagant, featuring a lavish venue and an elaborate menu."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Potemkin must be given part of the credit for the somewhat extravagant splendour of Catherine's reign.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If I say that my somewhat extravagant imagination yielded simultaneous pictures of an octopus, a dragon, and a human caricature, I shall not be unfaithful to the thing.

The New Yorker

"The biggest challenge was to design a completely new and somewhat extravagant hospitality object on the already existing building while preserving Mamula's unique facade," the company said.

The Guardian

In formal, somewhat extravagant verse, Walcott captures the island's beauty: "the rounded / Breasts of the milky bay, palms, flocks, the green and dead / Leaves, the sun's brass coin on my cheek, /.

The New Yorker

Tchaikovsky, on the other hand, was not comfortable working with preestablished formal models but was at his best in ballets and symphonic poems in which his somewhat extravagant nature found fuller scope for expression.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The statement added, "No doubt everyone will take this and other instances of somewhat extravagant claims by Ms. Mills into account in assessing what credibility and platform her assertions are given".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

No detail was omitted, down to the lavatory-paper holder and the coal scuttle.None of the works from Klimt's golden period has travelled to Liverpool, but there are excellent examples of earlier, somewhat less extravagant domestic portraits.

The Economist

Certainly, I suspect many of the civilians living somewhat less extravagant lives who have bought, quite literally, into the Ramsays' carefully honed 'family' image might find talk of amyl nitrate poppers and secret assignations in top London hotels just a bit too |rococo for them to get their heads round.

Independent

Though his poetry became somewhat more colloquial, his extravagant language, overwrought style and inflation of reality continued to jar when the fashion was for detached, cool, ironic understatement.

The Guardian - Books

MEXICAN history from the early 20th century can be a confusing array of revolutions and counter-revolutions, sprinkled with somewhat clichéd images of men with extravagant moustaches and bandoleers.

The Economist

This Romantic symphony (with echoes of Strauss, Tchaikovsky and particularly Wagner) is somewhat more restrained than Scriabin's "Divine Poem" and "Prometheus," extravagant and exuberant orchestral works written later in his career, when his fascination with mysticism increased.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "somewhat extravagant" to describe something that goes beyond ordinary limits in a way that's noticeable but not extreme. It is perfect for softening the impact of stronger terms like "excessive" or "lavish".

Common error

Avoid using "somewhat extravagant" to describe things that are merely expensive or high-quality but not actually excessive. The phrase implies a degree of excess beyond what is necessary or typical.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "somewhat extravagant" functions as an adverb-adjective combination, modifying a noun or noun phrase to describe something that is moderately excessive. It serves to qualify or temper the degree of extravagance, suggesting it's not extreme but still noticeable. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Encyclopedias

14%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "somewhat extravagant" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase for describing something that is moderately excessive or lavish. Ludwig AI's analysis of real-world examples demonstrates that it's most commonly found in news and media, with encyclopedias and wiki entries also utilizing the phrase. The term allows for nuanced descriptions, indicating a degree of excess without being overly critical. Remember to avoid overusing the phrase, especially when describing ordinary things. Alternatives such as "moderately lavish" or "slightly excessive" can provide variety in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a little extravagant

Uses "a little" instead of "somewhat", giving it a more casual tone.

moderately lavish

Focuses more on the luxurious aspect rather than the potential excessiveness.

slightly excessive

Emphasizes the exceeding of a normal or acceptable limit, with a touch of understatement.

mildly excessive

Like 'slightly excessive', but emphasizes the tempered intensity of the excess

a bit over the top

An informal expression indicating something is beyond what is considered appropriate or necessary.

fairly immoderate

Highlights a lack of restraint or moderation, implying a considerable degree of excess.

somewhat flamboyant

Shifts the focus to a showy or ostentatious display, often in terms of style or behavior.

somewhat ostentatious

Highlights an overly showy or pretentious display, intending to impress or attract notice.

rather opulent

Emphasizes the richness and abundance of something, suggesting a high level of luxury.

slightly overdone

Suggests that something has been taken a little too far, losing some of its appeal.

FAQs

What does "somewhat extravagant" mean?

The phrase "somewhat extravagant" describes something that is moderately excessive or lavish, going beyond what is considered reasonable or necessary, but not to an extreme degree. It implies a certain level of indulgence or showiness.

How can I use "somewhat extravagant" in a sentence?

You can use "somewhat extravagant" to describe purchases, events, or lifestyles that are more lavish than usual. For example: "The wedding decorations were "somewhat extravagant", but they created a memorable atmosphere."

What are some alternatives to "somewhat extravagant"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "moderately lavish", "slightly excessive", or "a bit over the top".

Is it appropriate to use "somewhat extravagant" in formal writing?

Yes, "somewhat extravagant" is generally appropriate in formal writing. The term itself it is neutral and widely used in formal contexts. The formality depends on the context. For example, you could use "slightly excessive" or "moderately lavish" as better options.