essence

[ˈɛsəns]

essence Definition

• 1. the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract, that determines its character
• 2. a concentrated form of a plant or food flavoring obtained by distillation or extraction

Using essence: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "essence" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The essence of the problem is that we don't have enough money.

• Example

  The essence of her argument was that the policy would be too expensive.

• Example

  Vanilla extract is made from the essence of vanilla beans.

• Example

  The essence of the perfume is rose oil.

essence Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for essence

• core
• crux
• gist
• heart
• kernel

Antonyms for essence

• periphery
• exterior

Phrases with essence

• in essence

  in reality; fundamentally

  Example

  In essence, they are the same product with different packaging.

• capture the essence

  to convey the most important and distinctive qualities of something

  Example

  The artist's painting captures the essence of the city perfectly.

• of the essence

  necessary or very important

  Example

  Time is of the essence when it comes to treating a heart attack.

Origins of essence

from Latin 'essentia', meaning 'being, essence'

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Summary: essence in Brief

The term 'essence' [ˈɛsəns] refers to the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, often determining its character. It can also mean a concentrated form of a plant or food flavoring obtained by distillation or extraction. Examples include 'The essence of the problem is that we don't have enough money.' and 'Vanilla extract is made from the essence of vanilla beans.' Phrases like 'in essence' and 'of the essence' convey the importance of something, while 'capture the essence' means to convey the most important qualities of something.