The phrase "in cups" can be spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as [ɪn kʌps]. The "in" portion is pronounced as in "win" and "pin," with the vowel sound represented by the IPA symbol [ɪ]. The "cups" portion is pronounced with the vowel sound represented by the IPA symbol [ʌ], as in "cup" and "stuff." The consonant sound represented by the IPA symbol [k] is used for the beginning of each word. Together, this pronunciation guide spells out the proper pronunciation of "in cups."
The term "in cups" is an idiomatic expression often used colloquially to indicate the measurement of ingredients or quantities of a substance using a standardized cup as a unit of measurement.
In culinary contexts, "in cups" refers to the process of measuring ingredients, such as flour, sugar, or liquids, by volume using a cup as the measuring tool. This measurement system commonly utilizes a standardized measuring cup typically available in various sizes, such as 1 cup, 1/2 cup, 1/4 cup, etc. The cup measurement system is widely used in cooking and baking, especially in recipes from countries like the United States.
When a recipe calls for adding ingredients "in cups," it means that the specified amounts of the ingredients should be measured using the appropriate measuring cup. The amount in cups is typically provided in a recipe to ensure accuracy and consistency in cooking or baking.
It is important to note that "in cups" refers specifically to the volume of a substance and not its weight. Measuring ingredients in cups can be practical and convenient as it allows for easy estimation. However, it is worth mentioning that different ingredients or substances may have varying densities or weights per cup, and thus, in certain cases, weighing them on a kitchen scale might provide more accurate results.
Overall, "in cups" is a phrase widely used in cookbooks, recipes, and cooking instructions to describe the method of measuring ingredients by volume using a standardized cup as a unit of measurement.
The phrase "in cups" does not have a specific etymology on its own. However, if you are referring to the term "in cups" as part of a phrase like "drunk in cups", it has a historical origin. "In cups" refers to being intoxicated or drunk. This phrase has roots in Old English, where "cups" referred to drinking vessels or goblets. Over time, the term "in cups" evolved to describe someone who has had too much to drink.