Synonyms for

Essence

Verb / ˈesʌns / Another word for essence — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract, that determines its character

Synonyms & similar words

gist heartandsoul heart burden nittygritty core center marrow meat nub sum pith effect substance perfume inwardness centre kernel core crux gist heart kernel meat nub pith quintessence substance sum center essentia meaning nature soul spirit stuff virtuality

Synonyms by register

Formal

quintessence gist core heart substance

Informal

heart main point crux nitty-gritty

Literary

spirit soul quintessence

Antonyms

accident superficiality exterior appearance surface triviality nonentity

Common collocations

  • in essence
  • essence of
  • pure essence
  • essential essence
  • the very essence
  • essence of life
  • essence of the matter

Word family

noun essence
adjective essential
adverb essentially

Usage note

Often used to refer to the most important or fundamental quality of something. 'In essence' is a common idiomatic phrase meaning 'fundamentally'.

Example sentences

  1. The essence of a flower is its fragrance.
  2. The essence of a good teacher is patience and dedication.
  3. The essence of a happy marriage is communication and compromise.
  4. The essence of a successful business is innovation and adaptability.
  5. The essence of a great movie is a compelling story and memorable characters.

Quotes

  • The essence of all religions is one. Only their approaches are different.
  • The essence of life is the smile of round female bottoms, under the shadow of cosmic boredom.
  • The essence of all beautiful art, all great art, is gratitude.

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