essence

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es|sence /'esəns/ (essences)
1 [N-UNCOUNT] usu N of n
The essence of something is its basic and most important characteristic which gives it its individual identity.
The essence of consultation is to listen to, and take account of, the views of those consulted.
...the essence of life...
[PHRASE] PHR with cl/group
You use in essence to emphasize that you are talking about the most important or central aspect of an idea, situation, or event.
Though off-puttingly complicated in detail, local taxes are in essence simple.
[PHRASE] V inflects
If you say that something is of the essence, you mean that it is absolutely necessary in order for a particular action to be successful.
Speed was of the essence in a project of this type.
= crucial
2 [N-MASS]
Essence is a very concentrated liquid that is used for flavouring food or for its smell.
...a few drops of vanilla essence.

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