What are the finer things in life?

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The finer things in life’ is a well-known English phrase.

For some people, the phrase refers to items of luxury and elegance. While others prefer to consider the finer things as those objects or moments, we take for granted.

As discussed on the forum at the Free Dictionary, the meaning of the phrase relies on the context in which it is used.

The finer things in life, such as the sun rising
Holding hands while watching the sunrise on a beach with the one you love.

Are the finer things in life, luxury items?

Depending on your outlook, it could refer to luxury items.

Luxury items include

  • Expensive sports cars.
  • Rare and expensive wines.
  • Jewelry and watches.
  • Classy gifts.
  • Designer clothing.
  • Priceless art.
  • Fine dining.
  • Antiques.
  • Cuban cigars.
  • A Caribbean holiday.

“He prefers the finer things in life.”

When you use the phrase in a statement like the one above, it generally means the subject enjoys living a high lifestyle. S/he might have access to more expensive things, like personally tailored suits.

The finer things - quote by author Mark Hyman
The finer things – quote by author Mark Hyman

Are the finer things in life, things I choose for special occasions?

We often choose to indulge ourselves on special occasions. So, we are more likely to experience the finer things at weddings or on birthdays.

You might save your money to treat yourself for a specific event, or to spoil yourself now and then.

Finer things for special occasions could include:

  • A spa bath, sauna or massage.
  • Champagne breakfasts.
  • A weekend away.
  • A pair of Doc Martins.
  • Dining out.
  • A favorite bar of chocolate.
  • A seven-day cruise.

Are the finer things in life, things we value and appreciate?

Yes, it can mean the things that you value and appreciate.  They’re not limited to expensive trinkets or stuff we can rarely afford.

For this Panda, the finer things in life is snow.

It can also be the things that we sometimes take for granted. Like a sunset or a smile.

When we begin to appreciate their beauty, and when we value them above others, these things are the things we consider the finest in life.

  • Fireworks
  • Fine food and a glass of wine
  • Snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef

The finer things in life

  • A forest waking as the sun rises.
  • The sound of the ocean’s waves as they roll across the shore.
  • The soft purr and caress of a happy cat.
  • The laughter of children.
  • The setting sun.
  • A smile.
  • A hayride.
  • A delicious, creamy flat white.
  • Time spent in the company of friends and family.
  • The taste of fruit picked fresh from a tree.
  • A warm log fire on a cold night.
  • A good book on a rainy day.
  • Writing.
  • A starry night.
  • The smell of wet grass.
  • Losing oneself in imagining.
  • A sip of port.
  • The peacefulness of the countryside.
  • Fireworks.
  • A slow waltz in the arms of your beloved.
  • Singing around a piano with a group of soulful friends.
  • Auld Lang Syne.

Addendum

This article was originally published at U-Foria – The finer things in life on August 1, 2014.

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