drinking cup

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "drinking cup" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a cup specifically designed for drinking beverages. Example: "She poured the juice into a colorful drinking cup for her child."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is a hinged plastic bracket the size of a small drinking cup.

The New York Times - Health

Possibly the drinking cup was attached to the ring by a chain.

The New York Times

Krum had Nicephorus' skull lined with silver and used it as a drinking cup.

Encyclopedia Britannica

(The wine is now free; a "pewter wine fountain drinking cup" is £24.99).

The New Yorker

The "toast" originates in the toasted bread traditionally put into the drinking cup.

The New Yorker

He then woke the man next to him and demanded his drinking cup.

The New York Times

There's even a drinking cup showing Atalanta in a strophion – "a kind of sports bra", as Mayor helpfully translates.

Independent

The ceiling rises, like a collapsible drinking cup, to make room for a sleeping loft (with a skylight for stargazing).

The New York Times

There are fountains on the site with potable water, so you can refill a water bottle or drinking cup.

The New York Times - Travel

One required a real, if tiny, DNA sample, perhaps from a strand of hair or drinking cup.

The New York Times - Science

They sprawl in the plastic garden chairs in the sunshine, smoking and drinking cup after cup of tea.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing historical or cultural contexts, be specific about the type of "drinking cup" (e.g., "skyphos", "mazer") to enhance accuracy and reader understanding.

Common error

Be careful not to use "drinking cup" when a more specific term like "mug", "glass", or "goblet" is more appropriate to accurately describe the vessel.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "drinking cup" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a direct object, subject, or object of a preposition. It identifies a specific type of container designed for consuming liquids, as evidenced by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

27%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "drinking cup" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a container designed for drinking. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use across various contexts, including news, science, encyclopedias, and wikis. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, the specific type of "drinking cup" can vary from historical artifacts like a “skyphos” to modern plastic cups. For more precise descriptions, alternatives such as "drinking vessel", "beverage container", or more specific terms like “mug” or “glass” may be appropriate. Remember to consider your audience and be as descriptive as possible to guarantee the accuracy of your written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drinking vessel

A more formal and general term encompassing any container used for drinking.

beverage container

A broader term that includes various types of vessels for holding drinks, not just cups.

personal cup

Emphasizes individual use and ownership.

water glass

Specifically refers to a glass used for drinking water, narrowing the scope.

refreshment container

Highlights the purpose of the container as being for refreshments.

sipping mug

Implies a handled container used for warm beverages, adding a specific feature.

reusable cup

Focuses on the environmental aspect of the container.

portable drinkware

Focuses on the portability aspect of the container.

hydration receptacle

A somewhat technical or humorous way to refer to a container for liquids to maintain hydration.

fluid holder

A very general term for any container that holds liquid, losing some specificity.

FAQs

How to use "drinking cup" in a sentence?

You can use "drinking cup" to refer to any vessel designed for drinking, such as "He filled the "drinking cup" with water" or "The child spilled juice from his "drinking cup"".

What can I say instead of "drinking cup"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "drinking vessel", "beverage container", or "personal cup".

Which is correct, "drinking cup" or "drink cup"?

"Drinking cup" is the correct and more commonly used form. "Drink cup" is less conventional.

What is the difference between a "drinking cup" and a "mug"?

A "drinking cup" is a general term for any vessel used for drinking. A "mug" typically refers to a larger, sturdier cup, often with a handle, usually used for hot beverages.