What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cup
Example
She poured the tea into the cup. [cup: noun]
Example
I need a cup of water to take my medicine. [cup: unit of measurement]
Example
The team celebrated their victory with the championship cup. [cup: trophy]
mug
Example
He sipped his coffee from the mug. [mug: noun]
Example
She made a funny face and stuck out her mug. [mug: slang for face]
Example
The thief mugged the tourist and stole his wallet. [mugged: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mug is more commonly used than cup in everyday language, especially in informal settings like homes and cafes. Cup is more commonly used in formal settings like restaurants or events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cup and mug?
Cup is generally associated with a more formal tone, while mug is more casual and informal. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.
