cup and saucer

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The phrase "cup and saucer" refers to a set used for drinking beverages, usually tea or coffee. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Definition

• Cup and Saucer: A cup is a small container used for drinking, and a saucer is a small plate that sits under the cup. The saucer catches any spills and is often used for holding the cup when it is not being used.

Usage Instructions

• In everyday conversation, we use "cup and saucer" to describe the complete set of these two items. You can say, “Please pass me the cup and saucer,” when you want someone to give you both the cup and the plate.

Example

• "I like to drink my tea from a beautiful cup and saucer set that my grandmother gave me."

Advanced Usage

• In more formal settings, such as a tea party or a restaurant, you might hear phrases like "fine china cup and saucer," referring to high-quality porcelain used for serving tea.

Word Variants

• Cup: A small, usually handle-equipped container for drinking.
• Saucer: A small dish designed to hold a cup.

Different Meanings

• While "cup and saucer" primarily refers to the drinking set, it can also colloquially describe a cozy setting where people gather for tea or coffee.

Synonyms

• Teacup and saucer: Specifically refers to the set used for tea.
• Mug and plate: Another type of drinking container with a more casual plate.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "cup and saucer," but you might hear phrases like "cup of tea," which means something that someone enjoys or prefers (e.g., "That's not my cup of tea" means that something isn't to your liking).

Academic

Noun

1. European biennial widely cultivated for its blue or violet or white flowers

Synonyms

• Canterbury bell
• Campanula medium