My cup of tea
/maɪ kʌp əv tiː/informalUK · US
What does “My cup of tea” mean?
My cup of tea means something that suits a person’s tastes or interests
You can say that horror films are not your cup of tea without claiming they are badly made. You are explaining your own taste.
The positive form works too: “This is just my cup of tea”. It often sounds a little more deliberate or playful than simply saying you like something.
When do people say it?
Especially common in “not my cup of tea”, a mild way to say you do not enjoy something. It describes personal taste rather than objective quality.
“I skipped the horror-film marathon; those films aren’t my cup of tea.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
A cup of tea provides the image of something enjoyable and suited to you. The phrase extends that preference to activities, styles and people.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “My cup of tea” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-11-13