Cheers to the origins of toasting, a tradition celebrated in different languages worldwide
In the vibrant tapestry of European cultures, raising a glass and saying "cheers" holds a special place. From the frosty fjords of Scandinavia to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, and even beyond the continent's borders, different languages offer unique expressions of goodwill and camaraderie when toasting. Let's embark on a linguistic odyssey to explore how "cheers" is expressed in various European languages and beyond. Download the highest-rated language apps.
Spanish: ¡Salud!
In Spain and many Spanish-speaking countries, the word "salud" is uttered when clinking glasses. Literally translating to "health," it embodies the wish for good health and prosperity. It's customary to raise your glass and say "¡Salud!" before taking a sip, whether it's a casual gathering or a formal celebration.
German: Prost!
Germans are renowned for their beer culture, and "Prost!" is their quintessential toast. This word, originating from the Latin "prosit" meaning "may it benefit," is deeply ingrained in German drinking etiquette. When clinking glasses, it's common to maintain eye contact as a sign of respect.
French: Santé!
In France, the toast "Santé!" meaning "health," is prevalent. It's a simple yet heartfelt way to wish good health and happiness to those you're sharing a drink with. French drinking culture emphasizes the enjoyment of fine wine and convivial company.
Italian: Cin Cin!
The Italians add their flair to toasting with "Cin Cin!" This onomatopoeic expression mimics the sound of glasses clinking and is often accompanied by a smile and a nod. Italians believe in savoring the moment, whether it's a casual aperitivo or a lavish feast.
Portuguese: Saúde!
In Portugal and other Portuguese-speaking countries, "Saúde!" is the go-to toast. Similar to its Spanish counterpart, it wishes for good health. Portuguese drinking culture values conviviality and sharing, often accompanied by delicious petiscos (tapas).
Swedish and Norwegian: Skål!
In the Nordic countries, "Skål!" rings out when raising a glass. This word traces its origins to the Old Norse word "skaal," meaning "bowl" or "cup." It's accompanied by maintaining eye contact and a firm clink of glasses. Scandinavians take pride in their drinking etiquette, which emphasizes moderation and camaraderie.
Greek: Yamas!
In Greece, "Yamas!" is the preferred toast. This word encapsulates the Greek spirit of celebration and camaraderie. It's often accompanied by heartfelt wishes for health, happiness, and prosperity. Greek drinking culture is deeply rooted in traditions and rituals, reflecting the country's rich history.
Turkish: Şerefe!
In Turkey, "Şerefe!" is the word used when raising a glass. It translates to "to honor" and is a testament to Turkish hospitality and generosity. Turkish drinking culture is characterized by warm gatherings, where friends and family come together to enjoy each other's company.
Russian: Na Zdorovie!
The Russians offer their toast with "Na Zdorovie!" which literally means "to health." Despite its widespread use in Western culture, it's not the most common way to toast in Russia. Instead, Russians often say "Budem zdorovy," meaning "let's stay healthy," or simply "Za zdorovie!" meaning "for health."
Polish: Na Zdrowie!
In Poland, "Na Zdrowie!" is the customary toast. It's a straightforward expression of goodwill and good wishes for health and happiness. Poles take pride in their drinking etiquette, which emphasizes respect and camaraderie.
Dutch: Proost!
The Dutch offer their cheers with "Proost!" It's a word that embodies the spirit of celebration and conviviality. Whether it's enjoying a cold beer in a cozy café or sipping on genever in a traditional jenever bar, saying "Proost!" is a must.
Danish: Skål!
Similar to their Swedish and Norwegian neighbors, Danes raise their glasses with a hearty "Skål!" This word, deeply rooted in Nordic traditions, symbolizes friendship and camaraderie. Danes believe in the power of hygge (coziness) and gemütlichkeit (warmth) when sharing a drink with loved ones.
Finnish: Kippis!
In Finland, "Kippis!" is the word used when toasting. It's a simple yet heartfelt expression of goodwill and friendship. Finns take pride in their drinking culture, which emphasizes equality and inclusivity.
Japanese: Kanpai!
Across the seas in Japan, "Kanpai!" resounds when toasting. This word, meaning "dry the glass," reflects the Japanese reverence for ceremony and tradition. When saying "Kanpai!" it's customary to make eye contact and clink glasses gently but firmly.
Chinese: 干杯 (Gānbēi)!
In China, the toast "Gānbēi" literally translates to "dry cup" and signifies finishing your drink in one gulp. Chinese drinking culture places importance on camaraderie and togetherness, with toasts often accompanied by heartfelt wishes for prosperity and happiness.
Korean: 건배 (Geonbae)!
In South Korea, "Geonbae!" is the word used when toasting. It translates to "bottoms up" and signifies a wish for good fortune and happiness. Korean drinking culture emphasizes respect and hierarchy, with younger individuals pouring drinks for their elders as a sign of respect.
Filipino: Tagay!
In the Philippines, "Tagay!" is the common way to toast. This word, derived from the Tagalog verb "tagayan" meaning "to pass around," embodies the spirit of sharing and camaraderie. Filipino drinking culture emphasizes hospitality and inclusivity, with friends and strangers alike welcomed to join in the festivities.
Thai: Chok Dee!
In Thailand, "Chok Dee!" is the phrase used when toasting. It translates to "good luck" and signifies a wish for prosperity and success. Thai drinking culture places importance on moderation and respect, with toasts often accompanied by a bow as a sign of deference.
Albanian: Gëzuar!
In Albania, "Gëzuar!" is the word used when toasting. It's a simple yet heartfelt expression of good wishes and happiness. Albanian drinking culture emphasizes conviviality and camaraderie, with toasts often accompanied by traditional folk music and dance.
Bulgarian: Nazdrave!
In Bulgaria, "Nazdrave!" is the toast of choice. This word, meaning "to health," reflects the Bulgarian emphasis on well-being and happiness. Bulgarian drinking culture is steeped in tradition, with toasts often accompanied by folk songs and dances.
English: Cheers!
In English-speaking countries, "Cheers!" is the ubiquitous toast. It's a versatile expression that can be used in any social setting, from casual get-togethers to formal occasions. Saying "Cheers!" is a way to acknowledge the moment and express goodwill towards others.
In Russian, you would say "На здоровье" when toasting, in Irish Gaelic, "Sláinte" is the customary expression, in Afrikaans, "Gesondheid" is used, and in Japanese, "Hai" signifies cheers.
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