Welcome to our guide on how to say cheers in Mongolian! If you’re planning a trip to Mongolia or simply want to impress your Mongolian friends, understanding the phrase for “cheers” can be a great icebreaker. Mongolian culture places importance on toasting and drinking together, so mastering the art of saying “cheers” can be a wonderful way to immerse yourself in their traditions. In this guide, we’ll explore the various formal and informal ways of saying cheers in Mongolian, providing tips, examples, and even a few regional variations if necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Cheers
When engaging in more formal occasions or toasting with respected elders or high-ranking individuals, it’s important to use the appropriate formal phrase. In Mongolian, the formal way to say “cheers” is “Арван нэгэнтэй” pronounced as “Arvan negentey”.
Informal Ways to Say Cheers
For casual gatherings or socializing with friends, you can use informal phrases to toast. One common way to say cheers informally in Mongolian is “Авьяаслай” pronounced as “Av’yaslai”. Another informal way is to say “Эрүүл мэндийн төлөө” pronounced as “Eruul mendin tooloo”, which roughly translates to “Cheers for good health.”
Tips for Saying Cheers in Mongolian
When saying cheers in Mongolian, keep these tips in mind:
1. Raise Your Glass
In Mongolian culture, it is customary to raise your glass and make eye contact with each person present before taking a sip. This gesture shows respect and acknowledges the person you are toasting with.
2. Toast Generously
Mongolians are known for their hospitality, and they value the act of toasting as a way to bond and show gratitude. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself toasting frequently throughout the evening, especially during special occasions or festive gatherings.
3. Express Good Wishes
When making a toast, it’s common to express good wishes or positive sentiments. Some phrases you can use are: “Togtokhiig bi huulekh uu!” meaning “Let’s finish the drink together!” or “Өвөө тэнгэрт хүргэл!” meaning “Cheers to the sky!” These phrases add a touch of warmth and sincerity to your toast.
Examples of Cheers Phrases in Mongolian
Formal:
- Арван нэгэнтэй! (Arvan negentey!) – Cheers!
Informal:
- Авьяаслай! (Av’yaslai!) – Cheers!
- Эрүүл мэндийн төлөө! (Eruul mendin tooloo!) – Cheers for good health!
Regional Variations
While Mongolian is the official language of Mongolia, there are several regional variations across the country. However, the phrases mentioned above are widely understood and used throughout Mongolia. If you find yourself in specific regions, it’s always fun to learn the local variations to impress the locals. Here’s an example:
In the Khovd region, instead of saying “Авьяаслай” for cheers, locals often say “Аадаршин,” which means the same thing. So, if you’re visiting Khovd, don’t be afraid to use this local variation to connect with the people!
In Conclusion
Cheers in Mongolian is more than just a phrase – it’s an expression of camaraderie, respect, and well-wishing. As you explore the fascinating culture and traditions of Mongolia, mastering these ways to say cheers will undoubtedly enhance your experiences and leave a lasting impression on the people you meet. So, raise your glass, make eye contact, and say “Арван нэгэнтэй” or “Авьяаслай!” and enjoy the moment with your Mongolian friends!
