cuppa
noun · casual
A cup of tea or coffee.
How Aussies use it
- Come in and have a cuppa.
- Let's have a cuppa and talk about it.
How to pronounce ‘cuppa’
Say it like this: KUP-uh
‘cuppa’ in a conversation
Sue: Fancy a cuppa?
Arjun: Yes please, white with one sugar.
Good to know
Offering someone a cuppa is a friendly way to start a chat.
A common mistake
A cuppa is usually tea, but it can be coffee. If you want to be sure, say 'a cup of tea' or 'a coffee'.
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use a cup of tea or coffee instead.
Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.
Quick check
What does ‘cuppa’ mean?
- Genuine, honest, true. Also used as a question meaning 'really?'.
- A cup of tea or coffee.
- Friend; also a friendly way to address almost anyone.
Show the answer
B. A cup of tea or coffee.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'cuppa' mean in Australia?
A cup of tea or coffee. Offering someone a cuppa is a friendly way to start a chat.
Can I say 'cuppa' at work?
Yes. 'cuppa' is fine in most workplaces, in conversation and casual messages. In formal emails, reports and English tests, use more standard English.
How do you pronounce 'cuppa'?
Say it like this: KUP-uh. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.