贅沢

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 贅沢 is read as ぜいたく and functions as a noun or な-adjective for extravagance or for an especially rich and satisfying luxury.
• Basic usage: An extravagant meal appears in 贅沢な料理, while a personally valued pleasure appears in 最高の贅沢.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Wasteful extravagance and valued pleasure
  • It can criticize excess, but it can also positively describe a special meal or cherished quiet time as a luxury.
• Difference from 豪華
  • 豪華 describes a splendid appearance or scale; 贅沢 centers on exceptional consumption or enjoyment beyond the ordinary.