tipple
C1Informal, slightly humorous, dated
Definition
Meaning
To drink alcohol regularly or habitually, but usually in small amounts.
A person's favourite alcoholic drink; also used as a noun for alcoholic drink in general.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Often implies a harmless, regular habit of drinking, rather than excessive drinking. Can be used affectionately. More common as a verb.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word is understood in both dialects but has a slightly more British, colloquial feel. In American English, 'tipple' might be perceived as more quaint or literary.
Connotations
British: Suggests a cosy, pub-based habit. American: May connote a mild, old-fashioned indulgence.
Frequency
More frequent in British English, though not common in formal contexts in either dialect.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] tipples [Adverbial - e.g., at the pub][Subject] enjoys a tipple [of something][Subject]'s tipple is [noun]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “What's your tipple? (informal way to ask someone's drink preference)”
- “be fond of a tipple”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rarely used. Might appear in informal networking contexts: "His business tipple was a single malt."
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Used in casual conversation about drinking habits, often humorously: "Grandad likes a tipple on a Sunday."
Technical
Not used.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- He used to tipple a bit of sherry before bed.
- They'd tipple at the local every Friday.
American English
- He would tipple a glass of bourbon after work.
- She doesn't tipple much these days.
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My grandfather has a little tipple sometimes.
- What's your favourite tipple? Mine is red wine.
- After a long week, he enjoys a quiet tipple at his neighbourhood pub.
- Despite his reputation as a tippler, he never drank to excess and preferred a fine claret to any other tipple.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a bottle 'tipping' slightly as you pour a small drink - you 'tipple'.
Conceptual Metaphor
ALCOHOL IS A PLEASURABLE PASTIME (not a vice).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'tip' (чаевые, наконечник).
- The noun 'tipple' does not mean a strong drinking session (пьянка). It's a habitual or favourite drink.
Common Mistakes
- Using it to mean 'drink heavily' (incorrect).
- Using it in formal writing.
- Overusing the word; it's a low-frequency item.
Practice
Quiz
Which sentence uses 'tipple' CORRECTLY?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. It specifically refers to the regular, often moderate, consumption of alcohol, not to the state of drunkenness.
Yes, it commonly is. 'A tipple' means a person's favourite or usual alcoholic drink (e.g., 'Whisky is my tipple').
No, it is informal and slightly humorous or affectionate in tone. It is not suitable for formal reports or academic writing.
'Tipple' implies a habitual, often pleasurable, consumption of alcoholic drinks specifically, and is more idiomatic. 'Drink' is a neutral, general term for consuming any liquid.