When traveling or socializing in Europe, it’s always important to know how to toast and say “cheers” in the local language. This small gesture not only demonstrates your respect for the local culture but also helps you integrate and connect with locals on a deeper level. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say cheers in different European countries. So grab your glass and let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. France
Formal:
- “À votre santé” – pronounced as “ah voh-truh sahn-tay” (which means “to your health”) is a formal way to toast in France. It is commonly used during formal occasions or when raising a glass to a special event.
Informal:
- “Santé” – pronounced as “sahn-tay” (which also means “health”) is the informal way to say cheers in France. This is the most common and casual way of toasting in everyday situations.
2. Italy
Formal:
- “Salute” – pronounced as “sah-loo-teh” (which means “to health”) is the formal way to say cheers in Italy. This is often used in formal settings such as weddings or business dinners.
Informal:
- “Cin cin” – pronounced as “chin chin” is the informal way to toast in Italy. This is commonly used among friends and family during informal gatherings or when socializing at a local bar.
3. Germany
Formal:
- “Prost” – pronounced as “prohst” is the formal and most commonly used way to say cheers in Germany. It is appropriate for both formal and informal occasions.
Informal:
- “Zum Wohl” – pronounced as “tsum vohl” (meaning “to your well-being”) is an informal way to toast in Germany. You can use it when celebrating with friends or in a casual setting.
4. Spain
Formal:
- “Salud” – pronounced as “sah-lood” (which means “health”) is the formal way to say cheers in Spain. It is often used during formal events or when toasting to someone’s success.
Informal:
- “¡Arriba, abajo, al centro y pa’dentro!” – pronounced as “ah-ree-bah, ah-bah-ho, ahl cen-tro ee pah-den-tro” is the informal and enthusiastic way of toasting in Spain. It roughly translates to “up, down, center, and inside,” and it is a popular saying among friends while celebrating.
5. United Kingdom
Formal and Informal:
- “Cheers” – pronounced as “cheerz” is the versatile way to toast in the United Kingdom. It can be used in both formal and informal settings. It is the go-to word for celebrating in the UK.
6. Greece
Formal:
- “ΥΓΕΙΑ” – pronounced as “yamas” (meaning “to health”) is the formal way to toast in Greece. It is commonly used during formal occasions or toasting to someone’s success.
Informal:
- “Στην υγειά μας” – pronounced as “stee-nay-yamas” (meaning “to our health”) is the informal way of saying cheers in Greece. This is often used among friends and family during casual gatherings or while enjoying a meal together.
7. Sweden
Formal and Informal:
- “Skål” – pronounced as “skawl” is the universal way to toast in Sweden. It can be used in both formal and informal occasions. Swedes enjoy saying “Skål” while raising their glasses to celebrate.
8. Portugal
Formal:
- “Saúde” – pronounced as “sow-de” (meaning “health”) is the formal way to say cheers in Portugal. It is commonly used during formal events or when toasting to someone’s well-being.
Informal:
- “Tim-tim” – pronounced as “teem-teem” is the informal way of saying cheers in Portugal. It is often used in casual settings or while having a night out with friends.
Remember These Tips and Examples:
When toasting, it’s important to make eye contact and raise your glass while saying cheers. This shows respect and engagement.
Example:
In France, when toasting formally, you would say “À votre santé” and make sure to maintain eye contact with the other person.
Additionally, it’s always helpful to learn a few extra phrases related to toasting in the local language. For example, you can say “Bottoms up!” in English-speaking countries or “Saluti!” in Italy to add more flair to your toast.
In summary, different European countries have their own unique ways to say cheers. Familiarizing yourself with these phrases not only helps you blend in with the locals but also shows your appreciation for their culture. So raise your glass and enjoy the wonderful tradition of toasting in Europe!
