Austere

英语词汇
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词性：adj
音标： [ɔˈstɪr]
释义： 朴素的，简朴的; 严峻的，严厉的; 苦行的; 一丝不苟的 Having an extremely plain and simple style or appearance
Synonyms: unadorned, subdued, stark, stern

The adjective austere is used to describe something or someone stern or without any decoration. You wouldn’t want someone to describe you or your home as austere.

Austere is not usually a positive word because it means that a person or a thing isn’t pleasurable. For example, if you go on an austere diet, it’s likely you wouldn’t ever get to have candy. The adjective comes into English by way of French, Latin, and Greek, meaning “harsh” and “dry.” It’s pronounced as “ah-STEER,” with an emphasis on the second syllable.

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You know what, the food is going to be austere.

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I just… it seems pretty austere.

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He was kind of austere.

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Hello @Tristan! Let’s dive into the word “austere” and explore its usage, examples, origin, and how you can remember it.

Explanation and Usage of “Austere”

Definition:

  • Austere is an adjective that describes something or someone that is very simple, plain, and without any decoration. It can also mean something stern or severe in manner or attitude.

Formal and Informal Usage

Formal Writing:

  1. Stylistic Minimalism:
    • “The architecture of the building is characterized by austere lines and minimal ornamentation.”
  2. Economic Policies:
    • “The government implemented austere measures to reduce the national deficit.”

Informal Speech:

  1. Personality Description:
    • “He’s a bit austere; he never smiles and always speaks in a serious tone.”
  2. Lifestyle / Environment:
    • “Her apartment is quite austere, with only the bare essentials and no decorations.”

Origin and Pronunciation

Origin:

  • The word “austere” comes from the Old French austere, from Latin austerus, from Greek austēros which means “harsh, rough, bitter”.

Pronunciation:

  • Pronounced as “ah-STEER,” with an emphasis on the second syllable.

Natural Examples in Sentences

  1. Describing a Place:
    • “The monastery had an austere atmosphere, devoid of any luxuries.”
  2. Describing a Person:
    • “Despite his austere demeanor, his colleagues knew he had a kind heart.”
  3. Describing Conditions:
    • “The diet was quite austere, focusing strictly on fruits and vegetables.”

Memorization Tips

  1. Associations:
    • Think of the word “stern” as a key synonym. If something is austere, it’s like a strict teacher or a plain, undecorated room.
  2. Imagery:
    • Visualize an old monk living in a plain, undecorated cell. His lifestyle is very simple - this is the essence of being “austere”.
  3. Use It:
    • Use the word in daily sentences to get comfortable: “I chose an austere design for my new office to keep it simple.”

Summary

The word “austere” describes simplicity and severity. Whether it’s discussing the plain design of something, or the stern nature of a person, using “austere” appropriately can add depth to your language both in formal and informal settings. Keep practicing, and soon, it’ll be a natural part of your vocabulary!