Cheers! Prost! Salud! No matter where you are in the world, raising a glass to celebrate is a universal gesture of joy and camaraderie. If you are an avid traveler, a multicultural enthusiast, or just someone who loves learning about different cultures, knowing how to say “cheers” in various languages can greatly enhance your social interactions and create memorable experiences with people from different parts of the globe.
Table of Contents
The Importance of Knowing How to Say Cheers
Language is an essential part of any culture, and mastering a simple phrase like “cheers” can go a long way in breaking down barriers and creating connections. By learning how to say cheers in different languages, you display respect, openness, and a genuine interest in understanding and appreciating the local customs and traditions.
Formal and Informal Ways to Say Cheers
English: Cheers or Here’s to…
In English-speaking countries, “cheers” is the most common and widely used term to express a toast. However, if you wish to add more flavor to your toasts, you can also say “Here’s to…” followed by something meaningful or relevant to the occasion, such as “Here’s to good health!” or “Here’s to new beginnings!”
Spanish: Salud
In Spanish-speaking countries, the phrase “salud” is used to toast and means “health.” It is often accompanied by direct eye contact and clinking glasses. For a more informal setting, you can use “¡chin chin!” which is equivalent to “cheers” or “bottoms up.”
French: À votre santé
The French toast is expressed as “À votre santé,” which translates to “to your health.” It is a common phrase used in formal settings. In informal situations, the French might simply say “Santé!” which means “health.” Remember to maintain eye contact and clink glasses gently.
German: Prost
“Prost” is the go-to word for toasting in Germany. It is used both formally and informally. Germans take toasting seriously, so be sure to make eye contact with everyone at the table and clink glasses with each person individually. It is also common to maintain eye contact while drinking.
Italian: Cin cin
In Italy, “cin cin” is the word to say when raising a glass. It is an informal toast used in both formal and casual settings. Italians are known for their passion, so be expressive and add energy to your toasts. Don’t forget to clink glasses with everyone present to demonstrate your inclusiveness.
Portuguese: Saúde
In Portugal and Brazil, the word “saúde” is used when toasting. It translates to “health” in English. When clinking glasses, it is customary to look into the eyes of each person you toast with as a sign of connection and sincerity.
Other Languages and Regional Variations
Here are a few other ways to say “cheers” in various languages around the world:
Russian: За здоровье (Za zdorovye)
- Formal: За успех (za uspekhh) – “To success”
- Informal: На здоровье (Na zdorovye) – “To your health”
Japanese: 乾杯 (Kanpai)
Kanpai is the Japanese way of saying “cheers” and is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. It is important to wait until everyone has their glasses filled before making the toast. When clinking glasses, it is customary to say “kanpai” and maintain eye contact.
Mandarin Chinese: 干杯 (Gānbēi)
In Mandarin Chinese, the toast “gānbēi” is used. It directly translates to “dry cup,” encouraging everyone to empty their glasses. Avoid touching or crossing another person’s arm when clinking glasses and make sure to keep eye contact.
Conclusion
Learning how to say cheers in different languages not only helps you connect with people from various cultures but also enhances your overall travel experiences. By demonstrating respect for local customs and traditions, you create opportunities to make new friends, deepen your cultural understanding, and create lasting memories. So, here’s to you and your newfound knowledge—Cheers! Santé! Prost! Salud! Salute!
