When visiting Belarus, it’s always good to know a few local phrases to enhance your cultural experience and connect with the people. One such phrase is “Cheers,” which is commonly used to toast and express good wishes. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways of saying cheers in Belarus, along with some helpful tips and examples.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Cheers in Belarus
Belarusian culture places importance on proper etiquette, especially in formal settings. Here are a few formal ways to say cheers:
- На здороўе (Na zdaróvie): This phrase is the most common formal way to say cheers in Belarus. It directly translates to “To health” and is widely used in formal gatherings and events. It shows respect and goodwill towards others.
- Будзьма здаровыя (Budz’ma zdarovyya): Another formal way to say cheers, this phrase means “Let us be healthy.” It is more inclusive and conveys a sense of unity and well-being among the participants.
- Хай здараўлівацца (Khay zdarawlivats’tsa): This phrase is a formal wish for good health and prosperity. It can be used as a toast to celebrate important occasions and milestones.
Informal Ways to Say Cheers in Belarus
Informal gatherings and social gatherings among friends or acquaintances allow for a more relaxed and casual approach. Here are some informal ways to say cheers in Belarus:
- Дзякуй (Dzyakuy): In informal settings, it is common to simply say “Thank you” before taking a sip. This informal way expresses gratitude and appreciation towards the host or the person proposing the toast.
- Ці нашым будзе? (Tsi nashym budze?): This phrase literally translates to “Will it be ours?” It is a popular informal way to say cheers, reflecting a sense of camaraderie and togetherness among friends.
- Дзякуй, хлопцы (Dzyakuy, khloptsy): This informal phrase combines the expression of gratitude (“Thank you”) with the friendly term for “guys” or “lads.” It is a warm and informal way to say cheers among a group of friends.
Tips for Saying Cheers in Belarus
Here are some additional tips and guidelines to keep in mind when saying cheers in Belarus:
- Make eye contact while raising your glass to show sincerity and respect.
- Ensure your glass is not empty when toasting, as it is considered impolite.
- If someone proposes a toast, it is customary to respond with a kind gesture or a short speech expressing gratitude and good wishes.
- If you are a guest at a formal event, it is polite to wait for the host or the honored person to initiate the toast.
- Remember to clink glasses gently, avoiding excessive force. It is more about the gesture and the connection than the sound produced.
- Take a sip after the toast, as a sign of appreciation for the good wishes expressed. However, avoid drinking too quickly or excessively.
- When clinking glasses, it is common to say “запіваць” (zapіvać) or “выпить” (vypіc’) which mean “Let’s drink” or “Let’s have a drink”.
Remember, the act of proposing a toast and saying cheers in Belarus is more than just words; it is a way of connecting, showing respect, and celebrating together.
Now that you have learned both the formal and informal ways to say cheers in Belarus, you can confidently toast your glasses and enjoy the local customs and traditions. So, whether you’re in a formal setting or among friends, saying “Na zdaróvie” or “Дзякуй” will definitely make you feel closer to the Belarusian culture and its warm-hearted people. Cheers!
