To Each His Own
Meaning
“To each his own” means that different people have different tastes, preferences, opinions, or ways of doing things, and everyone is entitled to their own choice. It is a way of acknowledging a difference without insisting that one person’s preference is right for everyone.
The phrase often carries the idea of “everyone has their own preferences.” Someone might use it after hearing about a choice they personally would not make, while accepting that another person may feel differently.
Usage
The phrase is informal and commonly used in everyday conversation. It can sound accepting and tolerant, but depending on the speaker’s tone, it can also carry a hint of indifference or mild disapproval.
It is especially natural when discussing personal tastes, such as food, clothing, hobbies, music, or lifestyle choices. The related expression “each to their own” is also widely used.
Example Sentences
- I wouldn’t choose to live in the city, but to each his own.
- She loves extremely spicy food, while I can barely handle pepper. Anyway, to each his own.
- To each his own, but I think the original version was much better.
- He prefers working late at night, and I prefer early mornings; to each his own.
- I don’t understand why anyone would spend that much on sneakers, but to each his own.