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Espresso

UK //ɛsˈprɛsəʊ//US //ɛsˈprɛsoʊ//

Definition

A strong, concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee.

In simple words: A strong coffee made by forcing hot water through coffee grounds.

Examples

I ordered an espresso to start my day.
She prefers espresso over regular coffee for its stronger flavor.
The espresso was served with a touch of cream.
He likes to enjoy his espresso in a small cup.
After dinner, we had an espresso to finish the meal.

Usage notes

Used informally in coffee shops and restaurants. Not typically used in formal writing. Often confused with 'expresso'.

Grammar pattern

countable noun

Memory hint

Think of 'espresso' as 'express' - it's a quick coffee shot.

Collocations

espresso machine
espresso shot
double espresso
espresso coffee
espresso bar

Synonyms

coffee
java
brewed coffee
café
shot

Common mistakes

Spelling it as 'expresso'.
Using it in the plural as 'espressos' when discussing the drink generally.
Confusing it with related terms like 'latte' or 'cappuccino'.