Reading Theme:
Luxury: Definition, Usage & Examples Explained (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：expensive indulgence (luxury)
luxury
/ˈlʌk.ʃər.i/
n.
Something that is expensive and enjoyable but not needed for basic life.
expensive indulgence
➕
/ɪkˈspen.sɪv ɪnˈdʌl.dʒəns/
n.
Refers to goods, services, or items that are non-essential but provide pleasure and are typically high-priced.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'luxus', meaning excess or extravagance.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of LUX-ury like 'lucks' you have — something extra and fortunate, not a basic need.
📖 Example
Saving up for months, she finally bought herself a small piece of luxury-a designer lipstick.
After saving for months, she finally purchased a small indulgence—a designer lipstick.
🔗 Collocations
luxury goods – high-end, expensive products like designer clothes and jewelry
luxury brand – a company known for producing very expensive, high-quality items
live in luxury – to have a lifestyle characterized by expensive possessions and comforts
🔄 Synonyms
opulence (n.) – great wealth or luxuriousness
extravagance (n.) – something that is excessive and costly, lacking restraint
indulgence (n.) – something one allows oneself as a treat, often costly
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
luxurious (adj.) – characterized by luxury; very comfortable and expensive
📖 Cultural Story
Derived from Latin 'luxus' (excess, extravagance) through Old French 'luxurie'. Initially carried a moralistic tone of overindulgence. Today, it's a central marketing term in global consumer culture, describing high-end goods and experiences.
Meaning 2：great comfort (luxury)
luxury
/ˈlʌk.ʃər.i/
n.
A great state of comfort and pleasure that is not easy to achieve regularly.
great comfort
➕
/ɡreɪt ˈkʌm.fət/
n.
Refers to a state of profound ease, relaxation, and pleasure that is rare or difficult to attain in everyday life.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
For him, the biggest luxury is having a free afternoon to just read a book in the park.
For him, the greatest comfort is having a free afternoon to simply read a book in the park.
🔗 Collocations
the luxury of time – having ample, unhurried time to do something
sheer luxury – complete and utter comfort or pleasure
simple luxury – a basic but deeply satisfying pleasure or comfort
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
hardship (n.) – severe suffering or privation
discomfort (n.) – slight pain or lack of physical ease
deprivation (n.) – the lack or denial of something considered necessary
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