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sweetness

A2
noun

Pronunciation

UK

  • /swˈiːtnəs/

US

  • /ˈswitnəs/

Description

This word is not only about sugar. It can describe the pleasant taste of honey, fruit, or chocolate, but it can also describe kindness, warmth, and charm in a person or action. A gentle gesture may have this quality, and someone with a caring nature may be known for it. Think of a summer peach: delicious, soft, and comforting.

It appears in many common situations, from flavor ("the sweetness of ripe berries") to personality ("her natural sweetness drew people to her"). It can also suggest something tender and short-lived, like "the sweetness of youth." In "bittersweet," it mixes with sadness, showing that pleasure and pain can exist together.

Examples

  1. 1

    Flavor balance

    The sauce had just enough sweetness to balance the chili.

  2. 2

    Fruit ripeness

    The peaches lose some of their sweetness when they aren't fully ripe.

  3. 3

    Voice quality

    I was surprised by the sweetness of her voice on the phone.

  4. 4

    Personal kindness

    Despite his strict manner, there was real sweetness in the way he spoke to his daughter.

  5. 5

    Literary tone

    The book has a quiet sweetness that makes it easy to love.

Forms and spellings

2 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • sweetnessnoun

Forms

  • sweetnessespluralnoun