Chatterbox #293 – The history and culture of tea in the UK
Sep 7, 2022
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Discover the rich history and culture of tea in the UK, including the introduction of tea by Dutch traders, the shift to black tea, and its importance in British culture. Learn about the high consumption of tea in Turkey and explore slang expressions and the tradition of eating biscuits while drinking tea. Explore the elegance of high tea and its rising popularity, along with factors that influence the cost and experience of this British cultural experience.
Tea is highly significant to British culture, with a long history and a central role in socializing and comfort.
The UK is the third-largest tea-drinking nation, and tea is associated with breaks, relaxation, and connection with others.
Deep dives
Tea drinking culture in the UK
Tea drinking has a significant cultural difference between the UK and North America. While tea is commonly consumed in North America, it is not as central to the culture as it is in the UK. Tea has a long history in the UK, starting with its arrival via Dutch traders in the early 1600s. Catherine of Braganza, the Queen of England, is credited with spreading the popularity of tea drinking in the UK. Initially, loose leaf green and oolong teas were consumed, but the shift to black tea from India occurred when taxes were reduced in 1783. The UK is the third-largest tea-drinking nation, behind Turkey and Ireland.
The importance of tea in British culture
Tea plays an essential role in British culture and social fabric. It is associated with breaks, comfort, and socializing. It is common to have tea in the morning and afternoon as a break and a chance to relax and chat. Tea is often used as a way to connect with others, whether in times of happiness, sadness, or problem-solving. In British households, having a kettle is a staple, as it is used to quickly boil water for making tea. A unique etiquette is also linked to the preference for tea, such as asking how someone takes their tea and the debate over adding milk and using a teapot. Additionally, high tea or afternoon tea has become a popular trend, offering a formal and elegant experience with tea and finger foods.
Tea, biscuits, and slang expressions
While tea is commonly consumed in the UK, the idea of dipping biscuits (cookies) into tea is divisive. Some find it enjoyable, while others find it unappealing. It is generally accepted to have biscuits alongside tea, just not necessarily dipping them in. Slang expressions related to tea include terms like 'kappa' and 'brew' as shortened words for a cup of tea. 'How do you take it?' is a question commonly asked to enquire about milk preferences. Additionally, the term 'high tea' refers to an elegant dining experience where tea and a spread of small cakes and sandwiches are served, often associated with dressing up and a formal occasion.
Who doesn’t love a hot cup of tea? Most countries have some kind of tea culture. However, the British think of tea as especially important to their culture. In fact, many people think of tea when they think of elements of British culture. In this Chatterbox episode, Anna talks with Andrew about her country’s relationship with tea and how important it is. So put the kettle on and sit back for an interesting conversation!
Chatterbox is a Culips series for high and intermediate English learners in which native English speakers have a conversation on an interesting topic. Listening to this series will help to improve your listening skills and to expand your vocabulary.
Fun facts
In this episode, Anna mentions that Turkey is the country with the highest consumption of tea in the world. The average Turkish person drinks 3.16 kg of tea per year, whereas people in the #2 country, Ireland, drink 2.19 kg of tea per year. Every other country surveyed consumes, on average, under 2 kg of tea per year. There must be some amazing tea in Turkey!
Expressions included in the study guide
To come on the scene
Fabric of social culture
[Something] tea
Criminal
Just a splash
To dress up
Copyright: Culips.com
For more information about this episode, visit culips.com.
Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar
Image: Sincerely Media and Rachel Cheng (Unsplash.com)
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