1.
aesthetics
The branch of philosophy dealing with the nature and appreciation of beauty and art. Used in academic and intellectual contexts.
2.
personal aesthetic principles, philosophy of beauty
One's personal standards or principles regarding what is beautiful, elegant, or admirable. Often used to describe someone's approach to their craft, lifestyle, or values.
Usage
Sense 1 is the academic discipline, while sense 2 is the more common everyday usage — someone's personal code of beauty or principles. Sense 2 often implies a stubborn dedication to one's standards.
Common collocations
- 美学を学ぶ (study aesthetics)
- 美学に反する (go against one's aesthetics)
- 美学を貫く (stick to one's aesthetic principles)
- 自分の美学 (one's personal aesthetics)