beauty
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /bjˈuːti/
US
- /ˈbjuti/
Description
- pleasing appearance
- loveliness
- attractive quality
- aesthetic grace
- inner excellence
Beauty isn't just about how something looks; it's about what makes us feel good when we experience it. A breathtaking sunset, a kind gesture, or even a perfectly crafted mathematical equation can all possess beauty. It's subjective—what one person finds beautiful, another might not! Think of the rugged beauty of a mountain range versus the delicate beauty of a flower. Both are beautiful, but in very different ways. We often talk about "inner beauty" too, referring to qualities like kindness and intelligence that make someone admirable beyond their physical appearance.
Beauty is a quality that gives pleasure to the senses or elevates the mind. It's a concept deeply woven into human culture, art, and philosophy—and it's surprisingly complex! While often associated with visual appeal—a beautiful painting, a stunning landscape, a striking face—beauty extends far beyond physical attributes.
The idea of beauty is subjective; it varies across cultures, time periods, and individual preferences. What was considered beautiful in ancient Greece differs greatly from modern standards, and what one person finds attractive, another might not. This subjectivity doesn't diminish the power of beauty, though; it simply highlights its deeply personal nature.
Beauty can be found in unexpected places: in symmetry, proportion, color, and form, but also in imperfection, vulnerability, or even chaos. A weathered tree, a cracked vase, or a melancholic melody can all evoke a sense of beauty.
We often use "beauty" to describe qualities beyond the physical realm—"the beauty of a selfless act" or "the beauty of simplicity." This speaks to the word's ability to describe things that inspire awe, wonder, and emotional resonance. The phrase "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder" perfectly captures this idea: it is not always an inherent quality in something, but rather a perception created by the observer.
So, whether you're admiring a masterpiece, appreciating nature, or recognizing goodness in someone's character, beauty is that elusive quality that stirs our souls and enriches our lives.
Examples
- 1
Nature
We stopped to admire the beauty of the mountains.
- 2
Everyday moments
There is beauty in simple everyday moments.
- 3
Inner confidence
She believes beauty comes from confidence, not just appearance.
- 4
Architecture
The old house has a quiet beauty that modern buildings often lack.
- 5
Advantage
The beauty of this plan is that nobody has to rush.
Pattern
the beauty of X is that Y
the best or most useful part is that Y
- 6
Beauty services
She opened a small beauty salon near the station.
- 7
Beautiful person
In her youth, she was known as a great beauty.
Meaning
a great beauty
a very beautiful woman
- 8
Sports praise
That last goal was a beauty.
Meaning
a beauty
something especially good or impressive
- 9
Sleep
I'm going to bed early because I need my beauty sleep.
Phrase
beauty sleep
sleep that helps you look fresh and healthy
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- beautynoun
Forms
- beautiespluralnoun