an acquired taste
/ən əˈkwaɪəd teɪst/
Meaning
This expression describes something that you do not enjoy at first, but grow to like over time after experiencing it repeatedly. It is commonly used for foods with strong or unusual flavors, like blue cheese, black coffee, or olives, but can also apply to music, art, or hobbies.
Examples
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I hated olives when I was a kid, but they are definitely an acquired taste.
I hated olives when I was a kid, but they are definitely an acquired taste.
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Jazz music can be an acquired taste, so don't worry if you don't enjoy it right away.
Jazz music can be an acquired taste, so don't worry if you don't enjoy it right away.
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For many people, black coffee is an acquired taste that takes years to appreciate.
For many people, black coffee is an acquired taste that takes years to appreciate.
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The artist's style is a bit of an acquired taste, but his paintings are highly valued.
The artist's style is a bit of an acquired taste, but his paintings are highly valued.
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At first, I couldn't stand the smell of kimchi, but now I realize it's just an acquired taste.
At first, I couldn't stand the smell of kimchi, but now I realize it's just an acquired taste.
Common Mistakes
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✗ This cheese is an acquire taste.
✓ This cheese is an acquired taste.
'Acquired' must be in the past participle form acting as an adjective. Do not use the base verb 'acquire'.
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✗ I have an acquired taste of classical music.
✓ Classical music is an acquired taste for me.
We say something 'is' an acquired taste, or that we 'acquired a taste for' something. Do not say you 'have an acquired taste of' something.
Related Expressions
Practice
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Many people find raw oysters to be _____, but now I absolutely love them.
💡 A phrase meaning something you only like after trying it multiple times.
Show answer
an acquired taste
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Don't worry if you don't like bitter melon at first; it's definitely _____.
💡 A phrase meaning something you only like after trying it multiple times.
Show answer
an acquired taste