Afternoon tea
af-ter-NOON TEE /ˌɑːftəˈnuːn tiː/
Formal Neutral
What it really means
A fancy set meal in hotels and tea rooms: small sandwiches, scones and cakes on a tiered stand, with tea. Usually needs booking and costs £25–60 per person. A popular treat for birthdays and visitors.
Chinese explanation
酒店和茶室的精致套餐：三层点心架上摆着小三明治、司康和蛋糕，配茶。一般要预订，每人约25–60镑，是过生日或招待访客的热门选择。
Example conversation
A: My mum's visiting — any ideas?
B: Book afternoon tea somewhere nice. She'll love it.
A：我妈要来看我——有什么建议？
B：订个好地方的下午茶吧，她一定喜欢。
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Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team
· Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake