Latvian is the official language of Latvia, a country located in the Baltic region of Northern Europe. Whether you are planning a trip to Latvia or simply want to learn some useful phrases, knowing how to say “cheers” in Latvian can be a great way to impress the locals and immerse yourself in the local culture. In this guide, we will explore both the formal and informal ways of saying cheers in Latvian, along with some tips, examples, and regional variations.
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Formal Ways to Say Cheers in Latvian
When it comes to formal situations, such as business meetings, official events, or when you want to show respect to someone older or more senior, the following phrases are commonly used to say cheers in Latvian:
- 1. Priekā – This is the most common and straightforward way to say cheers in Latvian. It can be used in various formal settings and is universally understood. The pronunciation is “pree-eh-kah”.
- 2. Uz veselību – This phrase translates to “to health” in English and is often used to toast or wish good health to everyone present. The pronunciation is “uhz veh-seh-lee-boo”.
Informal Ways to Say Cheers in Latvian
If you are in a more casual and informal setting, such as a gathering with friends or family, the following phrases can be used to say cheers in Latvian:
- 1. Priekšā – This informal variation of “priekā” is commonly used among friends. The pronunciation is “pree-ehk-shah”.
- 2. Prosit – While not a Latvian word, “prosit” is commonly used by younger generations in Latvia to say cheers, adopting it from neighboring countries. The pronunciation is the same as in German, “proh-zeet”.
Tips for Saying Cheers in Latvian
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when toasting and saying cheers in Latvian:
- 1. Eye Contact and Clinking Glasses: When saying cheers in Latvia, it is customary to make eye contact with each person while clinking glasses. This gesture shows respect and connection.
- 2. Wait for the Host or the Most Senior Person: In formal settings, it is polite to wait for the host or the most senior person to initiate the toast. It is considered impolite to start the toast before them.
- 3. Raise Your Glass and Speak Clearly: When toasting, raise your glass and speak your chosen phrase clearly. It is considered respectful to make the toast audible and understandable to everyone present.
- 4. Sip Your Drink After the Toast: After saying cheers, it is customary to take a sip of your drink. It’s a way to honor the toast and show appreciation.
Example 1: At a formal business event, you can say, “Priekā” to toast and show respect to your colleagues and superiors.
Example 2: When having a casual drink with friends, you can use the informal phrase “Priekšā” and maintain a relaxed atmosphere.
Now that you are armed with both formal and informal ways to say cheers in Latvian, you can confidently raise your glass and participate in toasts when in Latvia. Remember to respect the local customs and enjoy the rich culture that Latvia has to offer. Priekā!
