“Wholesome” is a word used to describe things that are good for you, both physically and emotionally. It means something that is beneficial and promotes well-being. For example, a wholesome meal might be one that’s nutritious and makes you feel good after eating it. Likewise, a wholesome activity could be something enjoyable that also helps you grow as a person, like spending time with loved ones or pursuing a hobby you love.
Meaning and Definitions of Wholesome
“Wholesome” is a word with a few different meanings, but they all relate to things being good, healthy, or beneficial in some way. Here are a few ways it can be used:
- Healthy and Nutritious: This meaning refers to food that is good for your body. For example, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are considered wholesome because they provide important vitamins and nutrients. Eating a wholesome breakfast might include oatmeal with fresh fruit.
- Morally Good: This refers to behavior or actions that are considered morally upright or virtuous. For instance, helping a friend in need or volunteering at a local charity are seen as wholesome activities because they benefit others and contribute positively to society.
- Enjoyable and Uplifting: Sometimes “wholesome” is used to describe things that make you feel happy, content, or uplifted. For example, a wholesome movie might be one that leaves you feeling inspired or hopeful, like a heartwarming family film.
- Simple and Genuine: It can also refer to things that are simple, genuine, and free from negative influences. For instance, a wholesome relationship might be one where both people care for and support each other without any ulterior motives.
How to Pronounce Wholesome?
Here’s the pronunciation of “wholesome”:
Syllables: The word “wholesome” has two syllables: whole and some.
Breakdown:
- “whole”: Pronounced like “HOHL”. Think of saying “hole” and extending the “o” sound slightly.
- “some”: Pronounced like “SUHM”. Imagine saying “sum” with an “m” sound at the end.
Putting it together: Combine the sounds: “HOHL-SUHM”.
Synonyms & Antonyms of Wholesome
Synonyms (similar words) for “wholesome”:
- Health: Healthy, well, robust, sturdy, strong, hale, hearty, nutritious, beneficial, healthful, good.
- Morally good: Good, moral, ethical, righteous, virtuous, decent, innocent, pure, clean, blameless, honorable.
- Uplifting: Positive, heartwarming, encouraging, inspiring, edifying, gratifying, refreshing.
- Simple and innocent: Uncomplicated, innocent, simple, down-to-earth, genuine, natural, wholesome.
Antonyms (opposite words) for “wholesome”:
- Unhealthy: Harmful, detrimental, deleterious, noxious, toxic, poisonous.
- Immoral: Unethical, sinful, wrong, corrupt, evil, wicked, depraved, debased.
- Depressing: Negative, gloomy, bleak, disheartening, discouraging, demoralizing, demoralizing.
Function of Wholesome in Parts of Speech
“Wholesome” is primarily an adjective. Here’s how “wholesome” functions as an adjective in different contexts:
- Food: We can describe a meal as “wholesome food” because it provides essential nutrients for the body. (Adjective describes the noun “food”)
- Activities: Spending time with loved ones can be a “wholesome activity” because it promotes positive emotions. (Adjective describes the noun “activity”)
- People: We might describe someone with good values as a “wholesome person.” (Adjective describes the noun “person”)
However, “wholesome” can also be used as a noun in some contexts, particularly in informal language or colloquial speech.
Example:
- “Watching old sitcoms gives me a sense of nostalgia and wholesome.”
In this sentence, “wholesome” is used as a noun to describe a feeling or quality associated with watching old sitcoms.
Other Functions of Wholesome
There aren’t any verb forms or other parts of speech derived directly from “wholesome” itself. However, in grammar, we can use “wholesome” in a few different ways:
1. Comparatives and Superlatives:
We can use comparatives (more wholesome) and superlatives (most wholesome) to compare the level of “wholesomeness” between things.
- Example: “This soup is more wholesome than yesterday’s fast food.”
- Example: “Spending time in nature is one of the most wholesome activities I can imagine.”
2. Adverbial Phrases:
We can create adverbial phrases using “wholesomely” to describe how something is done. Here, “wholesomely” acts like an adverb modifying a verb.
- Example: “The children laughed wholesomely as they played in the park.” (describes how they laughed)
- Example: “The bakery sells wholesomely made bread with fresh ingredients.” (describes how the bread is made)
Note: While “wholesomely” is grammatically correct, it’s less common than using “in a wholesome way” or similar phrases.
3. Nouns related to Wholesome:
There are some nouns related to “wholesome” that can be used to describe concepts associated with it.
- Wholesomeness: This noun refers to the quality of being wholesome. (e.g., “The wholesomeness of the community impressed me.”)
- Wholesome lifestyle: This describes a way of living that promotes good health and well-being.
How to Use Wholesome in Spoken English?
Here are some examples and tips for using “wholesome” in spoken English:
1. Food-related: When talking about food, use “wholesome” to describe dishes that are nutritious and good for your body.
For example: “I love starting my day with a wholesome bowl of oatmeal topped with fresh berries.”
2. Activity-related: Use “wholesome” to describe activities that are enjoyable and promote well-being.
For example: “Going for a walk in the park is such a wholesome way to unwind after a long day.”
3. Relationship-related: Describe close and positive relationships as “wholesome.”
For example: “I’m grateful for my wholesome friendship with Sarah; she always knows how to make me smile.”
4. Entertainment-related: Use “wholesome” to describe movies, books, or music that evoke positive emotions.
For example: “Watching that feel-good movie was a wholesome experience; it left me feeling happy and uplifted.”
5. General positive experiences: Use “wholesome” to describe experiences that are heartwarming and fulfilling.
For example: “Visiting my grandparents is always a wholesome time; their love and wisdom are so comforting.”
Tips for using “wholesome” effectively in spoken English:
- Use “wholesome” to describe things that are good for your physical, emotional, or moral well-being.
- Consider the context and audience when using “wholesome” to ensure it fits appropriately.
- Use “wholesome” to convey a sense of positivity, healthiness, and goodness in your language.
- Be creative and use “wholesome” in different contexts to add depth and variety to your spoken English.
Usage Examples of Wholesome in Sentences
Describing Food:
- “She prefers cooking wholesome meals from scratch rather than relying on processed foods.”
- “A salad made with fresh ingredients is a perfect example of a wholesome meal.”
- “We packed a wholesome lunch with fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain bread.”
- “The bakery sells wholesome treats made with natural ingredients.”
Talking about Behavior:
- “The children’s laughter filled the room, creating a warm and wholesome atmosphere.”
- “Volunteering at the animal shelter was a wholesome way to spend her weekends.”
Activities:
- “Spending time with family in the park is a wholesome activity.”
- “Volunteering at a local charity is a wholesome way to give back to the community.”
Referring to Entertainment:
- “Many people find comfort in reading wholesome books that uplift their spirits.”
- “The movie had a wholesome message about friendship and kindness.”
Discussing Relationships:
- “Their wholesome friendship had lasted for decades, built on trust and mutual respect.”
- “She wanted to surround herself with wholesome people who brought out the best in her.”
Reflecting on Values and Morality:
- “The small town was known for its wholesome values and tight-knit community.”
- “He admired her wholesome character and integrity in a world full of deceit.”
Referring to Places:
- “The town had a wholesome charm with its friendly residents and peaceful atmosphere.”
- “We found a wholesome cafe that offered healthy and delicious meals.”
Metaphorical usage:
- “His advice was a breath of wholesome air, reminding me to see the good.”
- “Their conversation was filled with wholesome laughter and positive vibes.”
- “The documentary offered a wholesome perspective on the issue.”
Examples of Wholesome from Web Articles
1. Aadhunik Ayurveda, a leading manufacturer in creating skincare products that prioritise holistic nourishment always emphasis on wholesome nutrition in every skin care product. [Medium]
2. This definition isn’t precisely what I mean when I say I want to be wholesome. [Medium]
3. If you’ve ever felt like this, or are feeling this way now, I find that having a few wholesome and relaxing activities to turn to can make all the difference. [Medium]
4. Firstly, having a good, normal meal is a wholesome experience for me. [Medium]
5. But just talking to her over the phone brightens my day. It’s so wholesome. [Medium]
6. Hair is one of the most important aspects of looking like a wholesome girl. [WikiHow]
7. If you get really drunk you might say or do something embarrassing or harmful to yourself or others – not a desirable characteristic of a wholesome person. [WikiHow]
8. This is a super cute option to respond to a wholesome flirty text or compliment. [WikiHow]
Collocations with Wholesome
Here are some common collocations (words frequently used together) with the word “wholesome”:
Food and Nutrition:
- wholesome food/meal/diet
- wholesome ingredients
- wholesome snacks/treats
Activities and Entertainment:
- wholesome fun/activities/games
- wholesome entertainment/movies/shows
- wholesome experience
People and Values:
- wholesome person/individual/family
- wholesome values/upbringing/lifestyle
- wholesome attitude/personality
Metaphorical Usage:
- wholesome laughter/smile/vibe
- wholesome advice/encouragement/perspective
- wholesome influence/impact/message
Other:
- wholesome image/atmosphere/charm
- wholesome way of life/living
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