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Soupcon Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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soupcon

[suːpˈsɒn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

slight suspicion

The term 'soupçon' refers to a small amount or a slight suspicion, particularly in a context where something more significant is generally expected. In culinary terms, it can also refer to a dash of flavoring or a hint of an ingredient. It implies a subtlety that is often more effective than a bold assertion or presence. In broader usage, it may convey the notion that there is something more than meets the eye, often leaving the discussion open to interpretation or further inquiry.

Synonyms

hint, impression, suggestion, trace.

Examples of usage

  • She had a soupçon of doubt about his honesty.
  • The dish was enriched with a soupçon of truffle oil.
  • There was a soupçon of tension in the air during the meeting.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • In gourmet cooking, a soupçon of a spice can elevate a dish, showing the importance of subtle flavors.
  • Chefs might describe a sauce as having a soupçon of sweetness to balance acidity.
  • In food writing, describing a dish with a 'soupçon' of an ingredient adds sophistication to the description.

Literary Usage

  • Authors use the term to suggest that characters may possess a soupçon of intrigue or mystery.
  • In poetry, a soupçon of emotion can be more powerful than overt expression.
  • Literature often plays with the idea that sometimes less is more, employing 'soupçon' to convey delicacy.

Psychology

  • The concept of a soupçon can be related to the idea of 'priming', where a small suggestion can influence our thoughts or decisions.
  • In social interactions, a soupçon of sarcasm can significantly change the meaning of a conversation.
  • Research shows that what we perceive as a soupçon of information can affect our interpretations of events.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, a character might drop a 'soupçon' of gossip to intrigue others, highlighting the importance of subtle hints.
  • The term occasionally appears in fashion discussions, referring to a hint of style or flair in an outfit.
  • A popular cooking show may use 'soupçon' to describe expert techniques, enlightening viewers on culinary sophistication.

Origin of 'soupcon'

Main points about word origin

  • This word comes from French, where it means 'a suspicion' or 'a hint'.
  • It originally referred to a small taste of something, suggesting a delicate touch or hint.
  • In the context of cooking, it indicates that a dish has just a touch of an ingredient.

The word 'soupçon' originates from the French language, where it literally means 'suspicion' or 'suggestion'. It is derived from the verb 'soupçonner', which means 'to suspect' or 'to doubt'. The etymology can be traced further back to the Latin word 'suspicionem', meaning 'suspicion' as well. The term has been adopted into English, primarily in literary and culinary contexts, to convey the idea of a slight amount of something, often used to describe flavors or emotions subtly. It reflects a cultural appreciation for nuances and understatements in food and communication, where a small detail can significantly impact perception.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,565, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.