What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
teacup
Example
She sipped her tea from a delicate teacup. [teacup: noun]
Example
The teacups and saucers were arranged neatly on the table for the afternoon tea. [teacups: noun]
mug
Example
He poured himself a cup of coffee in his favorite mug. [mug: noun]
Example
She wrapped her hands around the warm mug of hot chocolate. [mug: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mug is more commonly used than teacup in everyday language. Mug is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while teacup is less common and refers specifically to a cup used for drinking tea.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between teacup and mug?
Teacup is typically associated with a formal and elegant tone, while mug is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.