Meaning
Coffee served plain, without any milk, cream, or sugar added.
Cultural Background
Black coffee is the standard 'drip' coffee found in most diners and offices. While 'caffè' is usually black espresso, ordering a 'caffè americano' is the closest equivalent to a large cup of black coffee. Black coffee is common, but tea is often the default hot drink in many households.
Ordering
If you are in a cafe, 'black coffee' is the safest way to ensure you get no milk.
Regional variations
In some places, asking for 'a coffee' might lead to a question about milk. Be specific!
Meaning
Coffee served plain, without any milk, cream, or sugar added.
Ordering
If you are in a cafe, 'black coffee' is the safest way to ensure you get no milk.
Regional variations
In some places, asking for 'a coffee' might lead to a question about milk. Be specific!
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
I don't like milk in my drink, so I always order a ____ coffee.
Black coffee is the term for coffee without milk.
Which is the correct way to order?
Which sentence is correct?
Black coffee is the standard compound noun.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
2 exercisesI don't like milk in my drink, so I always order a ____ coffee.
Black coffee is the term for coffee without milk.
Which sentence is correct?
Black coffee is the standard compound noun.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsIt has almost zero calories.
If you add sugar, it is no longer 'black coffee' in the strict sense.
No, espresso is a specific brewing method.
Related Phrases
Americano
similarEspresso with hot water.
White coffee
contrastCoffee with milk.
Drip coffee
builds onCoffee made by dripping water.
