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

in essence, capture the essence, of the essence

Formal and Informal Expressions of essence

In different contexts, you can replace 'essence' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'core, crux' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'heart, meat' is a commonplace synonym.

essence: Explore its Definition & Usage

essence Definition

1the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract, that determines its character
2a 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

Antonyms for essence

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.