exquisite - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
exquisite Word Meanings
- extremely beautiful or lovely
- of special beauty or charm
- intensely felt or exiting
exquisite Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
exquisite Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɛk.skwɪ.zɪt/
US
/ˈɛk.skwɪ.zɪt/
exquisite Word Etymology
(a) ex- (out) + quaerere (to seek) → (b) Latin 'exquisitus' → Old French 'exquis' → English 'exquisite'. (c) Imagine a rare flower blooming in a hidden garden, sought after and cherished for its unmatched beauty and delicate fragrance.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Exquisite is a strong, positive adjective used for something that is extremely beautiful or well crafted, often suggesting refined taste, delicate detail, and a sense of rarity. It can describe people, places, objects, or experiences that strike the observer with a heightened sense of beauty or charm. The word frequently appears with nouns like beauty, craftsmanship, design, or scenery, as in exquisite jewelry or exquisite scenery. It can also convey intense sensation or emotion, as in an exquisite moment of joy or an exquisite performance. While elegant and versatile, exquisite tends to stay formal or literary, and you will hear it more in writing or refined conversation than in everyday, casual speech.
Usage Reminders
- Use exquisite for striking beauty or superb craft, not just very nice.
- Commonly collocates with beauty, craftsmanship, design, flavor, or scenery.
- Tends to be formal or literary; reserve for high-register descriptions.
- Prefer exquisite over extremely exquisite to avoid redundancy.
- Use the adverb exquisitely when describing actions or qualities.
Common Misconceptions
- It's only about food; it can describe beauty, craftsmanship, objects, or experiences.
- It's a casual synonym for beautiful; it carries a formal, literary tone.
- It means the same as gorgeous in all contexts; nuance differs by formality and rarity.
- It cannot describe people; it can, but sounds very formal and rare.
- Extremely exquisite is common; usually use exquisite or exquisitely instead.
Thinking Differences
Think of exquisite as a high-end, literary compliment; English speakers reserve it for particularly refined beauty or craft, not everyday praise.
Learning Tips
- Practice with high-register nouns like beauty, craftsmanship, design, scenery.
- Pair with appropriates nouns (exquisite craftsmanship) to avoid vagueness.
- Use exquisitely when describing actions (the piece was exquisitely crafted).
- Avoid stacking intensifiers (extremely exquisite) in formal writing.
- Read literary descriptions to hear the word in context.
- Keep a mental scale: exquisite = rare, refined, very beautiful.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'exquisite' mean?
A.Very old
B.Loud and harsh
C.Extremely beautiful or delicate
D.Heavy and solid
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'exquisite' correctly.
A.Her exquisite performance left the audience in awe.
B.He played the guitar exquisitely loud.
C.The soup was exquisite and steaming hot.
D.The book was exquisite and very dense.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'exquisite'?
A.Beautiful
B.Expensive
C.Harsh
D.Boring
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'exquisite'?
A.Plain
B.Intricate
C.Lovely
D.Charming
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where something is described as 'exquisite'?
A.The painting displayed stunning craftsmanship and details.
B.The cake was too bland and not sweet.
C.The flowers in the garden are absolutely exquisite and vibrant.
D.The weather was chilly with an overcast sky.
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