Whether you’re visiting Paris for business or pleasure, it’s always important to know the local customs and etiquette when it comes to toasting and saying cheers. Fostering connections with locals can greatly enhance your experience in the city of lights. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to say cheers in Paris, and provide you with useful tips and examples to make your toasting experiences unforgettable.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Cheers in Paris
In formal settings or when with people you’re not familiar with, it’s important to use a more polite and polished phrase to say cheers. The following are some common formal expressions used in Parisian circles:
- À votre santé: This phrase translates to “To your health.” It is the most traditional and widely used way to say cheers in formal situations. Pronounced as “ah voh-treh sahn-tay,” this expression is often accompanied by a raising of the glass towards the person you are toasting.
- À la vôtre: Similarly meaning “To yours,” this phrase is a more general way of saying cheers in a formal context. Use it when you want to toast to the well-being of the group as a whole rather than addressing individuals directly. Pronounced as “ah lah voh-truh,” it is a versatile phrase suitable for any formal occasion.
- À votre bonheur: If you want to wish someone happiness or good fortune with your toast, this expression is ideal. Pronounced as “ah voh-treh bo-nuhr,” it translates to “To your happiness.” This formal phrase shows your thoughtfulness and brings positive vibes to the gathering.
Informal Ways to Say Cheers in Paris
When you’re in informal settings or among friends, Parisians tend to use more relaxed expressions to say cheers. Here are some popular ones:
- Santé: This simple word means “Health” and is widely used in informal situations. Pronounced as “sahn-tay,” it is a go-to phrase that can be used among friends and even strangers in a casual setting. Raise your glass, make eye contact, and say “Santé” for a friendly toast.
- Tchin-tchin: This catchy expression is often accompanied by clinking glasses together. Pronounced as “cheen-cheen,” it’s a playful and lighthearted phrase used widely among friends. Tchin-tchin is perfect for informal gatherings, like brunches or after-work drinks, where laughter and joy are plentiful.
- À la tienne: When toasting with close friends, you can use this expression, which means “To yours.” Pronounced as “ah lah tee-yen,” it adds a personal touch to the toast and shows affection. It acknowledges the bond you share with the person you are toasting.
Tips for Toasting in Paris
To truly embrace the French way of toasting, keep the following tips in mind:
1. Maintain eye contact: When toasting, make sure to maintain eye contact with the person you are clinking glasses with. This gesture signifies sincerity and respect, strengthening your connection with others.
2. Gentlemen, toast first: In formal settings, it is customary for men to initiate the toast. Once the gentlemen have raised their glasses, women can follow suit and join in the toast.
3. No crossing: When clinking glasses, avoid crossing arms with others. It is polite to lean slightly towards the person you are toasting, preventing any potential spills or accidents.
4. Use your right hand: Hold your glass with your right hand while toasting. In France, the right hand is typically the hand of honor and should be used in formal settings.
5. Be mindful of the occasion: Adjust your toast accordingly to suit the occasion. If it’s a celebratory event, raise your glass with enthusiasm and cheer. For more somber moments, a nod and a more subdued cheers are appropriate.
Examples of Toasts
To help you put these phrases into context, here are some example toasts you can use:
1. Formal toast: “À votre santé! May this evening be filled with good food, great company, and lasting memories.”
2. Informal toast: “Santé! Cheers to the incredible adventures we’ve had together and the ones that lie ahead.”
3. Personal toast: “À la tienne! To my dearest friend, thank you for always being there for me. May we continue to share joy and laughter.”
Remember, each toast should reflect the spirit of the occasion and the relationship you have with the people you are toasting. Enjoy the moment, savor the connection, and seize the opportunity to make lasting memories!
