Asceticism: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a lifestyle or practice where one avoids physical pleasures and focuses on spiritual or religious goals.

• Monks often practice asceticism to achieve spiritual enlightenment.
• His asceticism led him to live a life of solitude and meditation.

Typically used to describe a simple, strict, and harsh financial or living condition, often imposed by external circumstances.

• The country had to adopt new economic policies to deal with austerity measures.
• During the war, the family lived in austerity, cutting back on all non-essential expenses.

Involves deliberately giving up personal pleasures or needs for a higher purpose or to benefit others, often with a moral or religious motivation.

• Her self-denial was evident in her constant sacrifices for her family's well-being.
• Many saints are known for their acts of self-denial as part of their spiritual practice.

Refers to the intentional avoidance of certain activities or substances, often for health, moral, or religious reasons.

• She practiced abstinence from alcohol as part of her commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
• Abstinence from certain foods is common during religious fasts.

Use this word when referring to a lifestyle characterized by severe self-discipline and abstention from all forms of indulgence, often for religious reasons.

• The monk embraced asceticism to focus on his spiritual goals.
• Her asceticism was evident in her minimalist lifestyle and simple clothing.

This word is best used when talking about training oneself or others to follow rules or a code of behavior, using punishment to correct disobedience if necessary.

• The athlete's discipline is what set him apart from his competitors.
• Parents often struggle with how to effectively discipline their children.

Use this word to describe holding oneself back from doing something or showing self-control, often to avoid excess or harm.

• She showed great restraint by not retaliating during the argument.
• Restraint in spending is crucial to saving money for the future.

This term is used generally when someone has power over their own actions, emotions, or desires. It can be applied in various scenarios, from personal habits to organizational management.

• She learned to control her anger through meditation.
• The manager had tight control over the project's budget.