‘To Each His Own’: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

'To each his own' is a common idiom that can come in handy in English. But what does it mean? And when is it appropriate to use it? That's what we're about to learn.

In short:

• 'To each his own' is a polite way of saying you disagree with something or have a different taste from someone else.

'To Each His Own' Meaning

Firstly, let me start by saying that you can easily change the pronoun used in this idiom according to what the circumstances call for.

You can also say:

• To each her own
• To each their own

The second important thing to know is that it is an idiom, so its meaning is not necessarily evident from the words that it's composed of.

Essentially, it's a way of respectfully telling someone you disagree with them when the topic is subjective. You might be talking about arts, music, or other personal taste.

Say that, for example, you're visiting an art gallery, and your friend comments on a painting that he really likes that you find distasteful. This would be a perfect opportunity to use the idiom 'to each their own' because art is subjective. Neither of you is right to like to dislike the painting.

Using this idiom allows you to disagree with someone in a healthy way:

• To show that you don't share the same opinion while keeping a good rapport with the person.

Examples of 'To Each His Own'

Let's look at some examples of this expression used in context to give you an idea of the right kind of setting to use it in.

Their lessor has decorated the house in Victorian style. It's not really my cup of tea, but to each their own.

I don't get it when people put ketchup on pizza; to each their own.

David like small, yappy dogs, whereas I like big cuddly ones. We've had to agree to disagree. To each his own.

I personally wouldn't have picked red for the color of my car but to each her own.

My parents watch that show every day, but I can't stand it. To each their own.

Some people enjoy a savory breakfast, while others like it sweet. To each their own.

It's to each their own; you can choose to come on the excursion with us or stay cozy in the chalet.

I wouldn't enjoy a cruise holiday, but to each their own, I guess.

Some people love watching sports on TV, which is really not my thing. But to each his own.

She told me who she voted for, and all I could say was: "To each her own."

Other Idioms Synonymous with 'To Each His Own'

There are tons of other idioms that have the same meaning as 'to each his own.'

Here are just a few. See if you recognize any of them:

• One man's trash is another man's treasure
• Art is subjective
• Whatever floats your boat
• Different strokes for different folks
• There's no accounting for taste

Concluding Thoughts

I hope this article helped clarify any doubts or difficulties you might have had around using the idiom 'to each his own.' Remember that it's a polite way to disagree with someone on subjective topics.

If you'd like to learn more common idioms, our blog is the perfect place. We've covered many popular English idioms and will continue to cover more.