Is clash of flavors a common phrase in English?

It is understandable and useful, but not very common in everyday speech.

Is clash of flavors positive or negative?

It is usually negative. It suggests the tastes do not work well together.

Can I use clash of flavors for drinks too?

Yes. You can use it for food, drinks, sauces, and recipes.

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clash-of-flavors

/klæʃ əv ˈfleɪ.vəz/

IELTSAcademic

noun

A clash of flavors is a combination of tastes that do not fit well together. The result can feel confusing or unpleasant in food or drink.

The mint and garlic made a clash of flavors.
The sauce created a clash of flavors in the dish.

Adinary Nuance

A clash of flavors is different from just a strong flavor. A strong flavor can still taste good, but a clash means the tastes fight each other. It is also more specific than bad taste, which can mean poor quality in general, not only food combinations.

In other languages

Vietnamese: Sự lạc vị
Spanish: Choque de sabores
Chinese: 风味冲突
Japanese: 味の不調和
Korean: 맛의 충돌

Etymology

This phrase comes from the English words clash and flavor, used together to describe tastes that conflict. It is a modern descriptive phrase, not a fixed old idiom.

Common phrases

a clash of flavorsflavor clashcreate a clash of flavors

Synonyms

mismatch discord incompatibility

Related words

aftertaste blend balance aroma

Frequently asked questions

Is clash of flavors a common phrase in English?: It is understandable and useful, but not very common in everyday speech.
Is clash of flavors positive or negative?: It is usually negative. It suggests the tastes do not work well together.
Can I use clash of flavors for drinks too?: Yes. You can use it for food, drinks, sauces, and recipes.