luxury - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
luxury Word Meanings
- a state of great comfort or elegance
- something that is desirable but not essential
- a pleasure or indulgence that is extravagant
luxury Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
luxury Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈlʌkʃəri/
US
/ˈlʌkʃəri/
luxury Word Etymology
luxury: lux- = light, urge = to grow; Origin: Latin 'luxuria' → Old French 'luxure' → English 'luxury'. Imagine a golden light illuminating a lavish feast, symbolizing excess and indulgence.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
I press a finger to the smooth corner of a velvet cushion and shift my weight to settle in. The chair gives a soft move under me as I adjust the recline and let the room brighten slowly. I keep my breathing steady, savoring how the air feels warmer and the fabrics more alive when I choose this moment of ease. The sense of luxury grows as I realize I don't need it, yet I want to stay here a little longer, enjoying this small indulgence.
Real Context
Luxury denotes a state of great comfort and elegance, things that are desirable though not essential, and indulgent pleasures that go beyond basic needs. In English, luxury often carries connotations of premium quality, exclusivity, and a sense of treating oneself. People talk about luxury cars, luxury hotels, or a "luxury lifestyle" that implies time and resources devoted to comfort rather than necessity. Learners should distinguish luxury from mere expense: something can be costly without being luxurious, and some luxurious experiences are accessible at different price points. Be mindful of collocations like 'luxury goods,' 'luxury brands,' and 'luxury hotel' to convey the right tone.
Usage Reminders
- Luxury can be countable or uncountable: a luxury, luxury goods.
- Not every expensive thing is luxurious; focus on quality, exclusivity, and experience.
- Use common collocations: luxury goods, luxury hotel, luxury brand.
- Distinguish luxury from luxurious (adjective) and from expensive (price only).
- Talk about lifestyle or experiences, not just objects, to convey indulgence or status.
Common Misconceptions
- Luxury equals expensive by definition
- All luxury items are frivolous and unnecessary
- Only wealthy people can experience luxury
- Luxurious and expensive mean the same thing
- Luxury always implies ostentation
Thinking Differences
English speakers often see luxury as a mix of high quality and exclusivity, with a nuance of self-reward. Learners may assume all expensive things are luxurious or overlook the cultural weight of phrases like luxury goods or luxury hotel.
Learning Tips
- Use a mix of nouns and noun phrases (a luxury, luxury goods)
- Pair with adjectives like premium, exclusive, indulgent
- Practice collocations in context (shop, hotel, lifestyle)
- Contrast with expensive to show price vs quality nuance
- Listen for tone in marketing vs everyday speech
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'luxury' mean?
A.A building
B.Fast car
C.Expensive item
D.Beautiful garden
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'luxury' correctly?
A.I ran a luxury race yesterday.
B.She bought a luxury house in the suburbs.
C.The dog chased the luxury ball.
D.He ate the luxury sandwich.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'luxury'?
A.Costly
B.Simple
C.Basic
D.Essential
Step 4: Opposite Words
In which situation would 'luxury' most likely be mentioned?
A.Surviving in the wilderness
B.Studying for a test
C.Going on vacation to a fancy resort
D.Cooking dinner at home
Step 5: Mastery
Give a real-life example where 'luxury' would be used.
A.Taking a relaxing spa day
B.Doing household chores
C.Walking the dog
D.Waiting in line at the bank
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
🔥 Advanced
Understanding Demand and Supply in Microeconomics
English Learning Listening Content
Listen Now
🔥 Advanced
The Legend of Swiss Watchmaking: Time's Timeless Tale
English Learning Listening Content
Listen NowWant to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App