Definition

Noun A liking or preference for something that is not immediately enjoyable or appealing, but that one learns to appreciate over time through repeated exposure or experience.

Usage

This noun phrase describes something that most people do not like when they first encounter it. The appreciation develops gradually. It is often used with the verb "to be" or "to become."

Examples

• Olives and blue cheese are acquired tastes for many people.
• Abstract art can be an acquired taste.
• He found the bitter flavor of coffee to be an acquired taste.
• The music of that composer is definitely an acquired taste.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase can be used metaphorically for non-food items, such as styles of music, art, humor, or even personality traits.
  • His dry sense of humor is an acquired taste.
• It can be used to politely indicate that something is not universally liked.
  • The film's slow pace makes it an acquired taste.

Variants and Related Words

• Acquire (verb): To gain or learn something through experience or effort.
• Taste (noun): The sensation of flavor or a personal preference.

Synonyms

• Cultivated liking
• Learned preference
• Developed appreciation

Idioms and Related Phrases

• To grow on someone: To become liked by someone over time (less formal).
  • I didn't like this song at first, but it has really grown on me.
• An acquired taste itself functions as a common idiomatic phrase in English.

Noun

1. a preference that is only acquired after considerable experience
   • martinis are an acquired taste