When visiting Hungary or interacting with Hungarian speakers, it’s always nice to know how to say “cheers” in their language. In this guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal ways to toast in Hungarian, provide some regional variations, and offer tips and examples to help you navigate this aspect of Hungarian culture with ease.
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Formal Ways to Say Cheers in Hungarian
If you are in a formal setting or want to show respect to your Hungarian counterparts, these phrases will come in handy:
Egészségére! (pronounced: eg-esh-eg-eh-re) – This is the standard and most widely used expression for “cheers” in Hungarian.
This formal phrase simply means “to your health” and is appropriate to use in a variety of situations.
Informal Ways to Say Cheers in Hungarian
If you’re among friends and want to toast in a more relaxed manner, these informal phrases will suit you well:
Egészségedre! (pronounced: eg-esh-eg-eh-dreh) – This is the informal counterpart to the formal expression mentioned earlier. It means “to your health” but is used when addressing individuals instead of a group.
Remember to use the appropriate verb form, ‘Egészségére’ for formal settings, and ‘Egészségedre’ when toasting someone informally.
Regional Variations
Hungary boasts diverse regional dialects, and while the formal and informal phrases mentioned earlier are widely understood throughout the country, there are a few regional variations worth noting:
Egészségedre and the Eastern Dialect
In parts of Eastern Hungary, you may come across the term “Egészségedre” (pronounced: eg-esh-eg-eh-dreh) as a standard way of toasting informally. While it differs slightly from the nationwide informal phrase, it is still widely understood and used in these regions.
Pálinka-hozzáértésre in Transdanubia
In the western region of Hungary known as Transdanubia, locals often use a unique phrase when toasting with their beloved fruit brandy, pálinka. The phrase is “Pálinka-hozzáértésre!” (pronounced: pal-ink-ah-hoz-ah-ehr-tesh-re), meaning “to expertise in pálinka.” This phrase is highly specific to Transdanubia and is not commonly used elsewhere.
Tips and Cultural Etiquette
Understanding the proper way to toast in Hungarian will make you feel more at ease in social gatherings. Here are some additional tips and cultural etiquette to keep in mind:
- Make eye contact while toasting. It shows respect and sincerity.
- Avoid crossing arms with others while clinking glasses, as it is considered bad luck.
- When someone says “Egészségére” or “Egészségedre,” respond with “Köszönöm” (pronounced: koh-suh-nohm), meaning “thank you.”
- Try the local alcoholic beverages, such as pálinka and Tokaji wine, as they are an integral part of Hungarian culture.
- If you’re unsure about the appropriate toast, “Egészségére” is always a safe choice in formal settings.
Examples in Context
Let’s see these phrases in action with a few examples:
Example 1:
Person A: Egészségére!
Person B: Köszönöm!
Example 2:
Person A: Egészségedre!
Person B: Köszönöm! Nagyon finom!
In these examples, Person A initiates the toast, Person B reciprocates with gratitude, and adds a compliment about the drink being delicious.
Now that you’re armed with these useful phrases, you’ll be able to confidently raise your glass and toast in Hungarian. Remember, “Egészségére” for formal occasions and “Egészségedre” when toasting informally. Respect the local customs, enjoy the company, and savor the taste of Hungary!
