Cool MateCup
UK /["/kʌp/"]/US /["/kʌp/"]/
Definition
a small container that is like a bowl in shape, usually with a handle, used for drinking tea, coffee, etc.
In simple words: A small container used for drinking, usually with a handle.
Examples
- I drank a cup of tea this morning.
- He poured the milk into the cup.
- They are playing in the soccer cup this weekend.
- Can you pass me that cup on the table?
Usage notes
Used in both everyday and formal contexts. Avoid using it in very technical or academic situations unless referring to a specific measurement. Generally, appropriate in any conversation about food or drink.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of a 'cup' as a 'cupboard' for your drinks!
Collocations
- empty
- full
- half-empty
- fill
- refill
- drain
- contain something
- holder
- a cup and saucer
- strong
- fresh
- hot
- offer somebody
- make (somebody)
- pour (somebody)
- cup of
- a nice cup of tea
- challenge
- knockout
- American
- win
- lose
- present (somebody with)
- competition
- clash
- match
- the first, etc. round of the cup
- challenge
- knockout
- American
- win
- lose
- present (somebody with)
- competition
- clash
- match
- the first, etc. round of the cup
- empty
- full
- half-empty
- fill
- refill
- drain
- contain something
- holder
- a cup and saucer
Synonyms
- mug
- glass
- tumbler
- chalice
Antonyms
- bowl
- goblet
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'mug' — remember, a mug is usually larger and doesn't always have a handle.
- Using 'cup' to refer to a large container; 'cup' usually means a smaller one.
- Overgeneralizing to all drinking vessels — a 'cup' is specific.