To Each Their Own Meaning

/təʊ iːtʃ ðeə(r) əʊn/ Part of speech: Idiom (phrase) Origin: English; earliest recorded use dating to the 16th century, with variations appearing in Latin as "suum cuique" (to each his own) Category: Words & Vocabulary
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Quick Answer

"To each their own" is an idiom meaning that different people have different preferences, tastes, and opinions, and all are equally valid. It expresses acceptance that there is no single correct choice or preference—what works or appeals to one person may not work for another.

What Does To Each Their Own Mean?

"To each their own" is a foundational expression of tolerance and individuality in English-speaking cultures. The phrase acknowledges a fundamental truth about human nature: preferences are subjective, and what brings satisfaction or joy to one person may leave another indifferent or unsatisfied.

Historical Development

The concept emerged prominently during the Renaissance, though similar sentiments appear in ancient philosophy. The Latin phrase suum cuique carried identical meaning and was frequently invoked in discussions of justice, rights, and personal autonomy. English versions of this expression gained particular traction during the 17th and 18th centuries as individualism became a more prominent cultural value. By the Victorian era, "to each their own" appeared regularly in literature and correspondence as shorthand for acknowledging differing opinions without judgment.

Modern Usage and Cultural Significance

In contemporary contexts, the phrase serves multiple functions. It operates as a diplomatic response when disagreements about taste arise—whether regarding food, music, fashion, or lifestyle choices. It signals that the speaker neither endorses nor condemns another person's preference, maintaining social harmony while respecting autonomy. This makes it particularly valuable in diverse, pluralistic societies where people hold vastly different values and aesthetic standards.

The expression has become especially prevalent in discussions surrounding personal autonomy and individual rights. It appears frequently in debates about lifestyle choices, career paths, romantic preferences, and recreational activities. The phrase essentially defends the principle that individuals should be free to make choices aligned with their own values and desires, provided those choices don't harm others.

Grammatical Evolution

While the traditional form uses the masculine pronoun "their" historically represented "his," modern usage has shifted toward the gender-neutral "their," making the phrase more inclusive. Some variations include "to each his own" (older form) or simply "each to their own" (alternative word order).

Relationship to Similar Concepts

Understanding "to each their own" connects to broader philosophical concepts including relativism, pluralism, and tolerance. It differs from pure relativism by not claiming that no preferences are objectively better—merely that personal preference remains valid. It reflects an attitude of live-and-let-live philosophy central to liberal democratic thought.

Key Information

Context Typical Application Underlying Principle
Food & Cuisine Dietary preferences, flavor profiles Sensory subjectivity
Entertainment Music, film, gaming choices Aesthetic diversity
Career & Lifestyle Work arrangements, life goals Personal autonomy
Relationships Partnership styles, living arrangements Individual values
Fashion & Appearance Clothing, grooming, body modification Personal expression
Recreation & Hobbies Sports, arts, outdoor activities Interest variation

Etymology & Origin

English; earliest recorded use dating to the 16th century, with variations appearing in Latin as "suum cuique" (to each his own)

Usage Examples

1. I don't understand why she loves horror movies, but to each their own—I prefer comedies myself.
2. Some people think minimalism is the ideal lifestyle, while others love collecting things. To each their own, I suppose.
3. He chose to work freelance instead of pursuing a corporate career, which wouldn't suit me, but to each their own.
4. Not everyone enjoys spicy food, and that's fine—to each their own when it comes to culinary preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is "to each their own" considered polite or dismissive?
The phrase is generally considered polite and respectful when used genuinely. However, tone matters significantly—it can become dismissive if delivered with sarcasm or eye-rolling, suggesting the speaker actually judges the other person's preference as foolish.
What's the difference between "to each their own" and "different strokes for different folks"?
Both express acceptance of differing preferences, but "to each their own" is more formal and traditionally established, while "different strokes for different folks" is more colloquial and contemporary. The latter adds a rhythmic quality that makes it slightly more casual.
Can you use this phrase to accept harmful choices?
While the phrase promotes tolerance, it's contextual. You wouldn't use "to each their own" to accept genuinely harmful behavior. The expression assumes choices are morally neutral—it works for preferences about pizza toppings, not for accepting abusive conduct.
Has the meaning of "to each their own" changed over time?
The core meaning remains consistent across centuries, but application has broadened. Historical usage focused on class and social position; modern usage encompasses lifestyle, identity, and personal choices more broadly, reflecting increased individualism in society.

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