Greeting someone with a cheerful “Cheers!” is a universal way to celebrate, show appreciation, and connect with others over a drink. If you find yourself in the vibrant city of Barcelona, it’s helpful to know how to say “cheers” in both formal and informal contexts. This guide will provide you with the essential phrases, tips, and examples to toast like a local!
Table of Contents
The Formal Way to Say Cheers
In formal settings, such as business meetings or upscale establishments, it is polite to use more refined expressions when toasting. Here are some formal ways to say “cheers” in Barcelona:
- “Salut”: This is the most common way to say “cheers” in a formal context. It directly translates to “health” in English, conveying a wish for good health to everyone in the group.
- “Per la teva salut”: This phrase is a nice formal toast that specifically means “to your health.” It is a courteous way to raise a glass and offer a kind gesture to the person you are toasting.
- “Per la nostra felicitat”: If you want to express a toast to happiness and general well-being, you can use this formal phrase. It means “to our happiness” and is a lovely way to connect with others in celebratory moments.
The Informal Way to Say Cheers
In more relaxed and casual settings, like bars or social gatherings, it’s common to use informal expressions to say “cheers.” Here are some popular informal ways to toast in Barcelona:
- “Salut i força al canut”: This is a fun and well-known informal toast in Barcelona. It translates to “cheers and strength to the elbow,” which is an expression to wish for good health and stamina.
- “Posa’t ben bé”: Another informal way to say “cheers” is by using this phrase, which means “pour yourself properly.” It suggests that you should fill your glass to the brim in order to enjoy the drink fully. It’s a lighthearted toast that encourages everyone to savor the moment.
- “Salut, colla!”: “Colla” in Catalan refers to a group or gang of friends, and here it is used as a friendly term. This informal toast means “cheers, gang!” and is generally used toasting with a close group of friends or acquaintances.
Tips and Examples
To make your toast in Barcelona even more meaningful and authentic, consider these additional tips:
- Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact with the person or people you are toasting to, as it shows respect and sincerity.
- Hold Your Glass Properly: When toasting, hold your glass by the stem or base and not the bowl. This is considered more elegant and prevents the drink from warming up due to body heat.
- Smile and Raise Your Glass: Combine your chosen toast with a warm smile while raising your glass gently. This adds a friendly and inviting touch to the overall gesture.
Example of a proper informal toast:
“Salut i força al canut!”
(Cheers and strength to the elbow!)
This phrase is perfect to use when cheering with friends in a lively Barcelona bar. Remember to look into each other’s eyes, hold your glass properly, and enjoy the moment with a smile on your face.
Remember, embracing local customs and language can contribute to a richer and more immersive experience while travelling or living in Barcelona. So, whether you find yourself in a formal occasion or having drinks with friends, you now have the knowledge to raise your glass and say “cheers” in Barcelona like a true local!
