Whether you’re planning a trip to the beautiful Czech Republic, attending a Czech cultural event, or simply want to impress your Czech friends, learning how to say “cheers” in Czech is an excellent way to embrace the local culture. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to toast in Czech, and offer some tips and examples to help you navigate this delightful phrase. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Cheers” in Czech
If you find yourself in a formal setting or you want to express your respect, here are some ways to say “cheers” in Czech:
- Zdraví: This is the most common and straightforward way to say “cheers” in Czech. It is frequently used in formal settings, such as business dinners or events. Pronounced as “zdrah-vee,” this term reflects a sense of good health.
- Na zdraví: Adding “na” before “zdraví” gives it a more structured and formal touch. It translates to “to your health” and is usually employed in more ceremonial situations, such as toasting at weddings or special occasions.
- Na vaše zdraví: For an even more formal approach, replace the pronoun “your” in the previous expression with the formal pronoun “vaše,” resulting in “to your health.” This phrase is often used when addressing a group of older or esteemed individuals.
Informal Ways to Say “Cheers” in Czech
When you’re in a casual setting or among friends, you can use these informal ways to say “cheers” in Czech:
- Na zdraví: Yes, you read it right! “Na zdraví” is not only used in formal settings but is also widely embraced as the go-to informal toast in Czech. It’s a versatile phrase that can be used in various social contexts.
- Dobrou chuť: Although primarily used as a phrase to wish someone a good appetite, “dobrou chuť” is also commonly used as a casual way to say “cheers” when clinking glasses before a meal.
- Ať žije: Translating to “long live,” this phrase is often used in a celebratory manner to toast to someone or something. For example, if you want to cheer for someone’s birthday, you can say “Ať žije Jan!” to wish Jan a long and prosperous life.
Regional Variations of “Cheers” in Czech
Czech, like any language, has regional variations in its vocabulary. Here are a few regional variants of “cheers” you might encounter during your travels:
Pivo v kliďase: This phrase is predominantly used in the Moravian dialect, specifically in the region of Kroměříž. It translates to “beer without worry” and is similar to saying “cheers.”
Tips for Toasting in Czech
Toasting in Czech can be enhanced with the following tips:
- Eye contact during toasting: It is customary to maintain eye contact with the person you are clinking glasses with.
- Wait for the “na zdraví”: When toasting in a formal or more ceremonial setting, wait for the host or the most respected person to say “na zdraví” before taking a sip.
- Use personal toasts: In a more relaxed setting, it is common to offer personal toasts, expressing appreciation or well-wishes to individuals or the group as a whole.
- Clink your glasses gently: When toasting, gently clink the lower half of your glass against the other person’s glass, making a pleasant sound without shattering the glasses.
Examples of “Cheers” in Czech
Let’s conclude this guide with a few examples showcasing the usage of “cheers” in Czech:
“Zdraví! Thank you all for joining me in this celebration!”
“Na zdraví! To a successful partnership between our companies!”
“Ať žije Marta! Long live our amazing friend Marta!”
Remember, practice makes perfect! Try using these phrases with Czech speakers, and you’ll be clinking glasses and toasting like a local in no time!
