Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Then there's the "hustle culture" guys, who instead insist that puritanical self-deprivation is the key to masculinity: strict diets, elaborate workouts, overtime schedules that leave no time for a social life.

From Salon • Apr. 9, 2025

For Muslims, the holy month combines self-deprivation, religious reflection and charity for the poor with festive celebrations as families break the sunrise-to-sunset fast with iftar, the evening meal.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 11, 2024

So many recent fashions, she said, had been about self-discipline and self-deprivation – tidying up, “clean” eating.

From The Guardian • Nov. 22, 2016

But in such circumstances the pleasure of self-deprivation – religious obedience, dieting and other forms of abstinence – can come to replace genuine enjoyment.

From The Guardian • Mar. 25, 2011

After all, self-deprivation is one thing; being told by someone else that you can't eat--even when you feel hungry--is another.

From Time Magazine Archive