gourmet - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
gourmet Word Meanings
- a connoisseur of good food and drink
- high-quality food
- fancy or elaborate in preparation
gourmet Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
gourmet Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɡʊə.meɪ/
US
/ɡʊrˈmeɪ/
gourmet Word Etymology
gourmet: 'gour-' (from 'gourmand' meaning glutton) + '-met' (related to being skilled in food preparation). Origin: French → English. Visualize a gourmet chef preparing an intricately decorated dish, impressing guests with their expert skills.
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
Gourmet refers to someone with a refined palate who pursues high-quality food and drink, and to food or meals prepared with expert skill and care. As a noun, a gourmet is a connoisseur who seeks ingredients, technique, and balance, not merely large portions. As an adjective, gourmet describes food, menus, or experiences that are crafted with premium ingredients, artistry, and meticulous presentation. The term comes from French, historically linked to gourmand but now oriented toward appreciation of craft and taste. In modern use you’ll see phrases like gourmet cheese, gourmet restaurant, or gourmet chocolate on menus or labels. While it signals quality, it can sound pretentious if overused in casual contexts.
Usage Reminders
- 1. Use gourmet as both noun (a gourmet) and adjective (gourmet food).
- 2. Pair with nouns like restaurant, cheese, chocolate to sound natural.
- 3. Don’t treat gourmet as simply expensive; it implies quality and craft.
- 4. Compare with related terms like connoisseur or artisanal for nuance.
- 5. Be mindful of tone; avoid sounding pretentious in casual conversation.
- 6. Check product labels or menus for authentic usage.
Common Misconceptions
- Gourmet always means expensive or fancy food.
- It only refers to chefs or restaurants, not individual foods.
- Gourmet equals pretentious; it should always sound high-brow.
- All fancy-looking dishes are automatically gourmet.
- Gourmet is the same as gourmand (glutton).
Thinking Differences
Gourmet in English often signals both a person with refined tasting and food prepared with care; learners should note the noun vs adjective split and avoid equating it with mere expensiveness or faddish branding.
Learning Tips
- Learn the noun and adjective forms separately.
- Notice collocations like gourmet restaurant, gourmet cheese.
- Don’t treat gourmet as simply expensive; it implies quality and craft.
- Compare with connoisseur or artisanal for nuance.
- Be mindful of tone; avoid sounding pretentious in casual talk.
- Practice with real menu labels and product names.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'gourmet'?
A.A person who repairs cars
B.A person who likes to exercise
C.A person who likes to travel
D.A person with refined taste in food
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is the word 'gourmet' used correctly?
A.They enjoyed a gourmet meal at the fancy restaurant.
B.She has a gourmet collection of stamps.
C.He is a gourmet at fixing computers.
D.I am a gourmet at playing basketball.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym of 'gourmet'?
A.Amateur
B.Novice
C.Connoisseur
D.Beginner
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which of the following is an antonym of 'gourmet'?
A.Culinary
B.Layperson
C.Epicurean
D.Gourmand
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would someone be described as a 'gourmet'?
A.Attending a music concert
B.Fixing a leaking sink
C.Running a marathon
D.Appreciating fine wine and cheese
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