-core is a word ending that turns a noun into the name of a style or aesthetic. Cottagecore is a cosy countryside aesthetic: floral dresses, gardens, home baking. Normcore is deliberately plain, ordinary clothing. These words appear on social media, in fashion magazines and in conversations about style. In a business email, an essay or IELTS Speaking, describe the style in everyday words: a simple, casual style.
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noun + core → cottagecore, normcore; so + …core; …core + look/outfit/aesthetic
- Her flat is so cottagecore: dried flowers everywhere and basil growing on the windowsill.
- I'm tired of dressing up, so this autumn I'm going full normcore: jeans, a grey hoodie and white trainers.
What changed
First versionDear Mr Price, is normcore acceptable for the interview, or should I wear a suit?
RevisionDear Mr Price, is casual clothing acceptable for the interview, or should I wear a suit?
Normcore is a trendy word from social media and glossy magazines. The person running the interview may not know it, and in a business email it sounds unprofessional. Casual clothing names exactly what you're asking about: everyday clothes instead of a suit.
Don't confuse -core words with hardcore. That's a separate word with its own meaning, very committed or devoted: a hardcore fan is an extremely dedicated fan, and it has nothing to do with clothing style.
Your turn
My friend's room is full of dried flowers, handmade quilts and jars of homemade jam. It's so ___.
Show the answer
cottagecore — Dried flowers, patchwork quilts and homemade jam are signs of a cosy countryside aesthetic, which is cottagecore. Normcore describes deliberately plain everyday clothing and doesn't fit a room full of flowers and jam.
In a message to a friend, describe the style of a person or place you know with one -core word. Name two details that show the style.
My new neighbour is so cottagecore: she bakes her own bread and grows tomatoes on her balcony.
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