Symbolism
A young man sits under a tree with crossed arms, staring at three cups in front of him. From a cloud, a hand offers him a fourth cup, but he doesn't see it. His closed posture shows withdrawal and dissatisfaction. The card asks if you are missing an opportunity because you're focused on what isn't there.
Four of Cups upright
The Four of Cups shows someone so focused on what they lack that they miss a new opportunity. You may feel bored, tired or disappointed. Take time to reflect, but look around too: something good may be right in front of you.
Four of Cups reversed
Reversed, the Four of Cups suggests you are coming out of a low phase. Interest returns, and you are ready to notice new possibilities.
Reversed keywords: new interest, awareness, opening up.
Four of Cups in love and relationships
Routine, emotional distance or disinterest. Ask what you really need instead of what's missing.
Four of Cups in love: feelings, reversed, yes or no →
Four of Cups at work and in your career
Lack of motivation. A new offer may be overlooked; check before you dismiss it.
Four of Cups and money
Look again at opportunities you have ignored.
Is Four of Cups a yes or no card?
Upright and reversed, the Four of Cups is a maybe: the answer depends on whether you notice what's on offer.
Four of Cups in a spread
In the past position it points to where this began: boredom or discontent that makes you overlook what is being offered. That earlier chapter still colors the situation now.
In the present position it names the energy around you right now: apathy, discontent, reflection.
In the future position it shows where things are heading if nothing changes, and what you can do about it: look up from what's missing and notice what is being offered.
The card’s advice
Look up from what's missing and notice what is being offered.
Cups: Water: feelings, relationships and intuition.
Frequently asked questions
What does Four of Cups mean in tarot?
The Four of Cups shows someone so focused on what they lack that they miss a new opportunity. You may feel bored, tired or disappointed. Take time to reflect, but look around too: something good may be right in front of you.
Is Four of Cups a yes or no card?
Upright and reversed, the Four of Cups is a maybe: the answer depends on whether you notice what's on offer.
What does Four of Cups reversed mean?
Reversed, the Four of Cups suggests you are coming out of a low phase. Interest returns, and you are ready to notice new possibilities.
What does Four of Cups mean in love?
Routine, emotional distance or disinterest. Ask what you really need instead of what's missing.