Is Aesthetic the Same as Ascetic? How Are They Different?

Every day, we come across new words that seem appealing and are sure to increase our vocabulary. However, it is not enough to come across these new words; one must also understand them. Unfortunately, this can get confusing thanks to similarities among words. One such situation might lead you to ask is “aesthetic,” the same as “ascetic.”

“Aesthetic” can function as a noun or an adjective in a sentence. Generally, it relates to beauty and art and the appreciation of art. On the other hand, while “ascetic” can also function as an adjective and noun, it is different. It relates to self-discipline and denial for religious reasons.

As you can see, there is more to their use than a quick look will bring to your attention. We bet you are looking to get into the details. Well, we have got you covered. In this article, we will explain everything in detail and how they are different.

When and How to Use the Word “Aesthetic” in a Sentence

Our first concern is when and how to use the word “aesthetic” in a sentence. Now, to gain a full understanding of the word, you need to understand the nature and meaning of the word. This is largely because only a thorough understanding will allow you to appreciate how to use the word.

However, just before we get into the meaning and nature, you might also want to know the origin of the word. This will help you understand how it came to be and how distinct or otherwise it is from other words. So, what is the origin of the word “aesthetic?”

The word is of Greek origin and reached us courtesy of the eighteenth-century German ideologies and philosophy. This is because it was the Germans philosopher that first focused on questions of beauty and art before teaching the English philosophers to do the same. In turn, it is traceable to the word “aisthetikos,” which means “sense perception.”

Now that we have explained the origin of the word “aesthetic,” let us get right to business with its meaning and nature. When it comes to the nature of a word, it means the function it performs in a sentence. Typically, this is as a result of the part of speech that it falls under. On the other hand, the meaning involves what it conveys to the reader.

So, what is the nature and meaning of the word “aesthetic?”

The word “aesthetic” can function as a noun in a sentence. When it does, it acts as a naming word that identifies something. In turn, it acts as the object or subject of a perfectly constructed sentence. While this is clear, the next area of attention is what the word “aesthetic” identifies when used as a noun.

Well, generally, the word relates to art and beauty. In turn, when used as a noun, it identifies a body of principle guiding the creation of art or its appreciation. Even more, by pluralizing it, we get a word – “aesthetics” – that means the study of art and beauty, its appreciation, and the general philosophy of art.

So, you use the word “aesthetic” as a noun when you want to convey that something represents the guiding principles regarding the appreciation of beauty and art. Now, here are some examples that will help you appreciate when and how to use this word.

1. I found the Cubist aesthetic quite thrilling when I studied it.
2. His recent works have an inspiring aesthetic that you would surely appreciate.
3. There is no doubt that the aesthetic of minimalism does not appeal to our lecturer.

On the other hand, the word “aesthetic” can also take the form of an adjective. In this instance, it functions as a descriptor and qualifies a noun. Precisely, it offers some form of description to a noun. As to its meaning as an adjective, it conveys something that provides beauty and is pleasing as a work of art.

In turn, you use the word “aesthetic” as an adjective when you want to convey that something provides a beauty worthy of appreciation as art. Here are some examples that should help you clarify how best to use the word in a sentence.

1. I must say that the pictures in the room give high-level aesthetic pleasure.
2. I hope you find a way to enjoy the aesthetic appeal that comes with being in the museum.
3. I have a thing for aesthetic objects.

When and How to Use the Word “Ascetic” in a Sentence

Next up, we will dive into when and how to use the word “ascetic” in a sentence. Of course, we will also discuss how it differs from the word “aesthetic” in a sentence. As we did above, you will also need to understand the meaning and nature of the word to appreciate the word’s use.

However, to appreciate the difference between both words, it is important to know its origin. Following the confusion concerning both words and the slight similarities between both words, are their origin related?

The origin of the word “ascetic” is also traceable to Greece, only that this time, ancient Greece. It is traceable to the word “asketes,” which demotes a hermit or a monk. At this time, the word’s predecessors described a strict regimen of athletes and warriors. Various philosophers also advocated it as a means to virtue among ordinary citizens.

Later, the word became relevant in describing when self-denial and mortification of the flesh by Christians reached their climax. For instance, the flagellants whipped themselves on their backs to punish themselves for their sins. As you can see, the origin of both words is different, and so is their usage.

Now, to understand when and how you use the word “ascetic,” we must get back to its meaning and nature. When it comes to this word, it can function as an adjective in a sentence. In this instance, it functions as a descriptor that offers some description to a noun.

What description does the word “ascetic” offer when used as an adjective in a sentence? Well, it conveys a form of comprehensive self-discipline that shuns self-indulgence, usually for religious reasons. So, if you want to use the word “ascetic” as an adjective, you use it to convey a form of self-discipline for religious reasons. Here are some examples of the use of the word.

1. Everyone interested in making heaven should be ready to live an ascetic life.
2. I can tell you that living in an ascetic environment brings a considerable level of calm to people.
3. You should appreciate the ascetic quality that comes with a minimalist home.

Also, beyond its function as an adjective, the word “ascetic” can function as a noun. In this instance, it is a naming word that identifies something. In turn, it acts as the subject or object in a sentence.

So, what does it entail and what meaning does it convey? It is someone that renounces and abandons material comfort in pursuit of the ascetic life. So, when you use the word “ascetic” as a noun, you use it to describe someone in pursuit of the ascetic way of life.

Now, here are some examples that offer clarity to the use of the word as a noun. By seeing them, you can better know how to use the word “ascetic” in sentences.

1. If there is one thing Tyler is proud of, it is that he is an ascetic.
2. When people start to describe you as an ascetic, you truly live the right way.
3. Do not be afraid to mingle with an ascetic; they are not without their positive impacts.

Understanding the Difference Between Both Words

So far, we have clarified the use of both words. As you can see, both words are distinct in their origin and their usage. Of course, there are similarities in both words. Precisely, they can both function as a noun and a verb. However, beyond this, their use should not be confused.

As we would expect, you can now tell when and how to use both words. However, the trick to using both words appropriately involves remembering the difference when writing. So, here is what you need to keep in mind.

When it comes to using the word “aesthetic,” it relates to beauty and the appreciation of art. On the other hand, when it comes to using the word “ascetic,” it relates to a form of denial and self-discipline for religious purposes. So, regardless of how you use both words – whether as a noun or an adjective – ensure you remember this underlying difference.

Final Thoughts

The English language is so full of confusing words that you will surely need to do some work. This makes understanding the difference between the words and using them appropriately quite the task. One of such situations is with “aesthetic” and “ascetic.”

Luckily for you, you do not need to go through the stress of looking for the difference yourself. We have detailed it all for you with illustrative examples. All you need to do is read this piece, and you are good to go. So, jump in and have fun.