52 Inspiring Tea Quotes and Sayings from Around the World

If you’re a tea lover or simply appreciate the art of tea drinking, you’ll love this collection of famous tea quotes, tea sayings, and proverbs from around the world. From renowned authors, poets, and philosophers to timeless cultural traditions, these tea-inspired quotes celebrate the warmth, wisdom, and joy that a simple cup of tea brings. Whether you’re sipping tea alone or sharing it with friends, these inspirational tea quotes remind us of the comfort, mindfulness, and connection that tea fosters. So, sit back, relax, and pour yourself a cup of your favorite tea as you explore the best tea quotes and sayings from across the globe.

Famous Tea Quotes and Sayings

52 Favorite Tea Quotes and Sayings

Explore the cultural significance of tea with these tea quotes and sayings.

52 Heartwarming Tea Quotes and Sayings from Different Cultures: A Tribute to the Love of Tea

Discover the joy and inspiration of tea with my collection of 52 wonderful tea quotes and sayings from across the globe, featuring famous authors, poets, and cultural traditions.

1.

William Ewart Gladstone, a prominent 19th-century British Prime Minister, beautifully encapsulated the versatile comfort of tea when he said:

If you are cold, tea will warm you, if you are too heated, it will cool you, if you are depressed, it will cheer you, if you are excited, it will calm you
— William Ewart Gladstone

This quote highlights tea's unique ability to adapt to our emotional and physical states, offering solace and balance in every situation. It's a testament to why tea has been cherished across cultures and generations as a universal remedy for life's varying moods.

Gladstone was also famous for many non tea related quotes such as “be happy with what you have and are, be generous with both, and you won’t have to hunt for happiness


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Are you a tea enthusiast seeking daily inspiration? This free eBook, "365 Tea Quotes and Sayings" offers a unique quote for every day of the year, celebrating the rich culture and timeless wisdom of tea.

Why You'll Love This eBook:

Daily Inspiration: Begin each day with a thought-provoking tea quote that uplifts and motivates.

Cultural Insights: Explore a diverse collection of sayings from tea traditions around the world.

Perfect Companion: Enhance your tea moments with reflections that resonate with every sip.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to enrich your tea journey. Download your free copy now and let these quotes inspire your days ahead!


2.

Earlene Grey beautifully captures the universal comfort of tea with her words:

No matter where you are in the world, you are at home when tea is served.
— Earlene Grey

This quote reminds us that sharing a cup of tea creates a sense of belonging and warmth, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. It's a simple yet profound testament to tea's power to make us feel at home, wherever we may be.


3.

Lin Yutang, a renowned Chinese writer and philosopher, eloquently captured the tranquil essence of tea in his work, The Importance of Living, stating:

There is something in the nature of tea that leads us into a world of quiet contemplation of life
— Lin Yutang

This quote by Lin Yutang reflects tea's unique ability to invite moments of peaceful reflection, offering a gentle pause amidst the busyness of daily life.


4.

Muriel Barbery, in her novel The Elegance of the Hedgehog, reflects on the profound simplicity of tea rituals:

When tea becomes ritual, it takes its place at the heart of our ability to see greatness in small things. Where is beauty to be found? In great things that, like everything else, are doomed to die, or in small things that aspire to nothing, yet know how to set a jewel of infinity in a single moment.
— Muriel Barbery

This quote highlights how the simple act of preparing and enjoying tea can lead us to appreciate the beauty in life's modest moments. Through such rituals, we find serenity and a deeper connection to the present.


5.

The Minister of Leaves, a title used by The Republic of Tea to personify their brand's philosophy, encapsulates the transformative power of tea with this quote:

Tea is wealth itself, because there is nothing that cannot be lost, no problem that will not disappear, no burden that will not float away, between the first sip and the last.
— The Minister of Leaves

This sentiment highlights how the simple act of drinking tea can provide a momentary escape, allowing our worries to dissipate with each sip. It's a beautiful reminder of tea's timeless ability to bring peace and clarity to our lives.


6.

Clemantine Wamariya, a Rwandan-American author and human rights advocate, emphasizes the universal gesture of offering tea in times of adversity with her quote:

No matter what is happening in your life, you always offer tea.
— Clemantine Wamariya

This sentiment by Clemantine Wamariya underscores the role of tea as a comforting ritual, symbolizing hospitality and resilience across cultures.


7.

Letitia Baldrige, an esteemed American etiquette expert, reminds us of the importance of taking a moment to appreciate our surroundings with her quote:

Tea time is a chance to slow down, pull back and appreciate our surroundings.
— Letitia Baldrige

This quote inspires us to use tea time as an opportunity to pause and find tranquility in our daily lives.


8.

Thich Nhat Hanh, a renowned Vietnamese Zen master, emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in everyday activities, including tea drinking. He advises:

Wherever you are drinking your tea, whether at work, in a cafe, or at home, it is wonderful to allow enough time to appreciate it.
— Thich Nhat Hanh

This quote encourages us to take a moment to fully experience and appreciate our tea, fostering mindfulness and presence in our daily lives.


9.

Frances Hardinge, a British author known for her imaginative storytelling, captures the profound impact of tea on mental clarity with her quote:

Tea is the magic key to the vault where my brain is kept
— Frances Hardinge

This metaphor by Frances Hardinge highlights how tea can unlock creativity and focus, offering a moment of calm that allows the mind to access its deepest thoughts.


10.

Yamamoto Soshun, a Japanese tea master, encapsulates the simplicity and integral role of tea in daily life with his words:

Tea is a part of daily life. It is as simple as eating when hungry and drinking when thirsty.
— Yamamoto Soshun

This quote emphasizes how tea seamlessly fits into our everyday routines, providing comfort and satisfaction as naturally as our basic needs.


A beautifully designed quote book featuring inspiring tea sayings, paired with a delicate teacup, symbolizing the harmony of literature and tea culture.

Famous Tea Quotes from Around the Globe

These quotes offer a glimpse into the universal love for tea across different cultures and eras. Pour yourself a warm cup, sit back, and enjoy these insightful musings that honor the cherished ritual of tea drinking.


11.

C.S. Lewis, in his autobiographical work Surprised by Joy, succinctly captures the introspective nature of tea drinking with his statement:

Tea should be taken in solitude.
— C. S. Lewis

This quote by C.S. Lewis points out the value of solitary tea moments, allowing for personal reflection and a deeper appreciation of the present.


12.

An anonymous saying humorously captures the joy that tea brings:

You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy tea and that’s kind of the same thing.
— Unknown

This lighthearted quote suggests that while happiness isn't for sale, the simple pleasure of enjoying a cup of tea comes remarkably close.

Leave a comment below or email me if you know who said it first ⬇️📩


13.

In Douglas Adams' The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, the character Arthur Dent expresses the comforting power of tea with the line:

A cup of tea would restore my normality.
— Douglas Adams

This quote highlights tea's ability to bring a sense of calm and normalcy amidst life's unpredictability.


14.

Samuel Johnson, the esteemed 18th-century English writer and lexicographer, humorously defended his tea consumption with the retort:

Sir, I did not count your glasses of wine, why should you number up my cups of tea?
— Samuel Johnson

This remark stresses Johnson's appreciation for tea and his belief in personal choice regarding one's preferred beverages.


15.

Chaim Potok, an American author and rabbi, captures the essence of sharing joyful moments over tea with his quote:

Come let us have some tea and continue to talk about happy things
— Chaim Potok

This joyful sentiment by Chaim Potok highlights tea's role in fostering happiness and connection during conversations.


16.

An anonymous saying captures the comforting power of tea:

A cup of tea makes everything better.
— Unknown

This saying highlights tea's universal ability to soothe and uplift, offering solace in any situation.


17.

Ralph Waldo Emerson, in his collection Letters and Social Aims, reflects on the profound appreciation some individuals have for tea:

Some people will tell you there is a great deal of poetry and fine sentiment in a chest of tea.
— Ralph Waldo Emerson

This observation highlights the deep emotional and cultural connections that tea can inspire.


18.

C.S. Lewis, the esteemed British author and scholar, shares his love for both tea and literature with the remark:

You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me.
— C. S. Lewis

This famous quote reflects his enduring appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.


19.

Kakuzō Okakura, in his seminal work The Book of Tea, eloquently states:

Tea … is a religion of the art of life.
— Kakuzō Okakura

This profound observation notes how the simple act of tea drinking embodies a deep appreciation for the aesthetics and philosophy of daily living.


20.

Lu T'ung, a Chinese poet from the Tang dynasty, expressed his profound appreciation for tea with the words:

I am in no way interested in immortality, but only in the taste of tea.
— Lu T’ung

This sentiment highlights his belief that the simple pleasure of savoring tea surpasses even the allure of eternal life.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: History of Tea in China


A person sits comfortably with a book open on their lap, holding a steaming cup of tea, embodying relaxation and contemplation.

Put the Kettle on and Relax with These Famous Tea Quotes

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21.

In his 1946 essay "A Nice Cup of Tea," George Orwell emphasized the cultural significance of tea in British society, stating:

Tea is one of the main stays of civilization in this country.
— George Orwell

This observation shows tea's integral role in daily life and its contribution to the nation's cultural fabric.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: What is the Most Popular Tea in England?


22.

An insightful Chinese proverb draws a parallel between resilience and the nature of tea:

A true warrior, like tea, shows his strength in hot water
— Chinese Proverb

This saying emphasizes that, much like tea releasing its flavor in boiling water, a person's true strength and character emerge in challenging situations.

Here’s another fabulous similar tea quote to this proverb once said by Eleanor Roosevelt; “A woman is like a tea bag; you never know how strong it is until it's in hot water.”


23.

Noël Coward, the renowned English playwright and composer, humorously highlighted the indispensable role of tea in British culture with his remark:

Wouldn’t it be dreadful to live in a country where they didn’t have tea?
— Noel Coward

This quote by Noël Coward draws attention to tea's deep-rooted significance in daily life and its association with comfort and tradition.


24.

Lu Yu, often referred to as the Sage of Tea, articulated the profound benefits of tea in his seminal work, The Classic of Tea:

Tea tempers the spirit, harmonizes the mind, dispels lassitude and relieves fatigue, awakens the thought and prevents drowsiness.
— Lu Yu

This quote highlights tea's multifaceted role in promoting mental clarity, rejuvenation, and overall well-being.


25.

An ancient proverb beautifully captures the spiritual significance of tea:

The path to Heaven passes through a teapot.
— Ancient proverb

This saying suggests that the simple act of sharing tea can lead to profound connections and enlightenment.


26.

Arthur Wing Pinero, a British playwright, describes the comforting essence of tea with his quote:

While there is tea, there is hope.
— Arthur Wing Pinero

This quote highlights tea's enduring role as a source of solace and optimism in daily life.


27.

Lu Tong, a Chinese poet from the Tang dynasty, eloquently expressed the serene experience of tea drinking with his words:

When I drink tea I am conscious of peace. The cool breath of heaven rises in my sleeves, and blows my cares away.
— Lu Tong

This quote by Lu Tong reflects the tranquillity and clarity that a simple cup of tea can bring to one's mind and spirit.


28.

Arthur Gray, in his work The Little Tea Book, beautifully captures the essence of tea with his observation:

The spirit of the tea beverage is one of peace, comfort and refinement
— Arthur Gray

British tea expert and author of “The Little Tea Book,” Arthur Gray, reflects how tea embodies elegance, offering solace and a touch of sophistication to those who partake in its ritual.


29.

In Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, the Mad Hatter laments the perpetual nature of their tea party, stating:

Yes, that’s it! Said the Hatter with a sigh, it’s always tea time.
— Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland

This line reflects the playful and nonsensical world Carroll created, where time stands still, and the characters are trapped in an endless tea party.


30.

Lu Yu, also known as the Sage of Tea, articulated the virtues of tea in his seminal work, The Classic of Tea:

The effect of tea is cooling and as a beverage it is most suitable. It is especially fitting for persons of self-restraint and inner worth.
— Lu Yu

This observation highlights tea's cooling properties and its association with qualities such as self-restraint and inner virtue.


31.

In Fyodor Dostoevsky's Notes from Underground, the protagonist, often referred to as the Underground Man, encapsulates his cynical worldview with the statement:

I say let the world go to hell, but I should always have my tea.
— Fyodor Dostoevsky

This tea quote reflects the character's profound detachment and self-centeredness, highlighting his preference for personal comfort over societal concerns.


32.

Alice Walker, the acclaimed American author, humorously captures the British affinity for tea with her observation:

Tea to the English is really a picnic indoors.
— Alice Walker

This fun famous tea quote highlights how tea serves as a cherished indoor ritual, bringing the warmth and conviviality of a picnic into the comfort of one's home.


33.

An anonymous saying captures the soothing power of tea:

Tea is an answer to most of the problems.
— Unknown

This quote about tea highlights tea's universal ability to uplift, offering solace in any situation.


34.

In his novel The Creeping Shadow, author Jonathan Stroud shares the comforting ritual of tea with this famous quote:

Making tea is a ritual that stops the world from falling in on you
— Jonathan Stroud

This tea saying highlights how the simple act of preparing tea can provide a moment of solace amidst life's chaos.


35.

Honoré de Balzac, the famous French novelist, wittily remarked:

Great love affairs start with Champagne and end with tisane
— Honore de Balzac

This quote humorously contrasts the passionate beginnings of romance, symbolized by Champagne, with its mellow conclusions, represented by herbal tea (tisane).


A book opened with a hot cup of tea and reading glasses.

Famous Tea Quotes, Sayings, and Ancient Proverbs

Cozy up with a hot cuppa and read these comforting quotes about tea


36.

In her novel Lady Audley's Secret, Mary Elizabeth Braddon reflects on the charm of domestic rituals with the observation:

Surely a pretty woman never looks prettier than when making tea.
— Mary Elizabeth Braddon

This tea quote by Mary Elizabeth Braddon highlights the Victorian idealization of femininity and domesticity, portraying tea-making as an act that enhances a woman's grace and allure.


37.

An anonymous saying captures the refreshing power of morning tea:

This morning’s tea makes yesterday distant.
— Unknown

This saying shows tea's ability to provide a fresh start, helping us leave behind the worries of the past.


38.

Alexander Pushkin, the renowned Russian poet, instils the simple pleasures of life with his quote:

Ecstasy is a glass full of tea and a piece of sugar in the mouth.
— Alexander Pushkin

This reflects the profound joy found in the everyday ritual of enjoying a sweetened cup of tea.


39.

Myoan Eisai, a Japanese Buddhist monk credited with introducing tea to Japan, extolled its virtues in his work Kissa Yōjōki (How to Stay Healthy by Drinking Tea), stating:

Tea is the elixir of life
— Myoan Eisai

This proclamation notes tea's esteemed status as a source of vitality and well-being.


40.

In Charles Dickens' Mrs. Lirriper's Legacy, a character seeks clarity through tea, stating:

My dear if you could give me a cup of tea to clear my muddle of a head I should better understand your affairs.
— Charles Dickens

This quote from Mrs. Lirriper’s Legacy highlights tea's role as a comforting aid in times of confusion.


41.

Sydney Smith, a 19th-century English writer and cleric, expressed his profound appreciation for tea with the exclamation:

Thank God for tea! What would the world do without tea! How did it exist? I am glad I was not born before tea.
— Sydney Smith

This enthusiastic declaration shows tea's integral role in daily life and its comforting presence throughout history.


42.

In the Rolling Stones' 1969 track "Live with Me," Mick Jagger humorously reflects on his personal habits with the line:

I got nasty habits – I take tea at three.
— Mick Jagger

This Rolling Stones’ lyric playfully juxtaposes the notion of "nasty habits" with the quintessentially British custom of afternoon tea, showcasing Jagger's signature wit.


43.

Seanan McGuire, in her urban fantasy novel An Artificial Night, encapsulates the timeless comfort of tea with the quote:

There’s always time for tea.
— Seanan McGuire

This quote highlights tea's enduring role as a source of solace and a reminder to pause amidst life's chaos.


44.

In The Tea Traveller's Constant Companion: Oregon, author Js Devivre encapsulates the comforting essence of tea with the quote:

Home is where the tea is.
— Js Devivre

This famous tea quote shows how the presence of tea can evoke feelings of home and belonging, no matter where one is.


45.

An ancient Chinese proverb extols the health benefits of regular tea consumption:

Drinking a daily cup of tea will surely starve the apothecary
— Chinese Proverb

This ancient tea saying suggests that incorporating tea into one's daily routine can promote well-being and reduce the need for medicinal remedies.


46.

Cristina Re, an Australian designer, beautifully expresses the essence of tea as a medium for meaningful connections with her quote:

A cup of tea is an excuse to share great thoughts with great minds.
— Cristina Re

This sentiment highlights how sharing tea fosters deep conversations and intellectual exchanges, turning a simple beverage into a bridge between minds.


47.

This anonymous tea saying beautifully captures life's journey:

Life is like a cup of tea. It’s all in how you make it.
— Unknown

This saying shows that, much like brewing the perfect cup of tea, the quality of our lives depends on the care and intention we put into our daily experiences.


48.

In Dorothy L. Sayers' novel Gaudy Night, a character reflects on the allure of tea:

There’s something hypnotic about the word tea.
— Dorothy L. Sayers

This famous tea quote highlights tea's captivating charm and its role in fostering meaningful conversations and connections.


49.

In Erin Morgenstern's novel The Night Circus, a character exemplifies the comforting ritual of tea in the face of unavoidable matters:

When she is unable to avoid the matter further, she makes a pot of tea.
— Erin Morgenstern

This quote highlights how the simple act of preparing tea serves as a moment of solace and reflection during challenging times.


50.

Patrick Cui, a renowned tea master, emphasizes the profound impact of tea on both body and mind:

In Chinese, we say tea washes the spirit. It’s not something that just enters your stomach, it also enters your mind
— Patrick Cui

This tea quote by Patrick Cui highlights tea's role in cleansing the spirit and fostering mental clarity, reflecting its deep-rooted significance in Chinese culture.


51.

This anonymous saying captures the universal appeal of tea:

Tea is always a good idea.
— Unknown

This famous saying shows tea's timeless role as a comforting and versatile beverage, suitable for any occasion.


52.

Leo Tolstoy, the infamous Russian author, once expressed his reliance on tea for creative inspiration:

I must drink lots of tea or I cannot work. Tea unleashes the potential which slumbers in the depth of my soul.
— Leo Tolstoy

This quote emphasises how tea can invigorate the mind and awaken one's inner creativity.


As we conclude this collection of 52 inspiring tea quotes and sayings, we hope they've brought warmth and reflection to your day. To further enrich your tea journey, we're excited to offer you a complimentary eBook featuring an additional 365 tea-related quotes, sayings, and puns. This curated collection is perfect for daily inspiration or sharing with fellow tea enthusiasts.

Download the eBook here ⬇️

We'd love to hear your favorite tea quotes or any reflections you have. Feel free to share them in the comments below. Happy sipping!

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It is important to note that any health advice provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or overall health. The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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