When it comes to toasting or celebrating with friends and loved ones, it’s always nice to know how to say “cheers” in different languages. So, if you want to raise a glass and say “cheers to you” in French, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to express this sentiment, along with some tips, examples, and even regional variations. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Cheers to You” in French
1. À votre santé: This is the most common formal way to say “cheers to you” in French. It directly translates to “to your health” and is the perfect phrase to use in formal settings or with people you don’t know well.
Example: As you raise your glass at a high-class event, you can confidently say, “À votre santé,” while making eye contact with the other person.
2. À la vôtre: Similar to the previous phrase, “À la vôtre” means “to yours.” It’s a formal way of saying “cheers” and can be used to express goodwill and camaraderie.
Example: When raising a toast to a group of people, you can say, “À la vôtre,” with a smile, acknowledging everyone’s shared celebration.
Informal Ways to Say “Cheers to You” in French
1. Santé: This is the most common way to say “cheers” informally in French. It’s short, simple, and widely used among friends and acquaintances.
Example: Picture yourself at a casual gathering with friends, holding a glass, and exclaiming, “Santé!” before taking a sip.
2. À vot’ santé: An informal variation of “À votre santé,” this phrase is a shortened and relaxed way of saying “cheers” among friends or in a laid-back setting.
Example: Imagine yourself at a cozy dinner party, surrounded by close friends, where you cheerfully say, “À vot’ santé,” before clinking glasses.
Regional Variations
French is a language with a rich diversity of regional dialects and expressions. While the above phrases are universally understood throughout France, here are a few regional variations of “cheers” you may encounter:
“Tchin-tchin” or “Chin-chin”: These informal expressions are quite popular in many regions of France, including Paris. They are often used among friends and have a playful tone.
Tips for Toasting in French
To make your toasting experience even more enjoyable, here are a few tips:
- Make eye contact: When saying cheers to someone, maintain eye contact to show sincerity and goodwill.
- Hold your glass properly: Hold your glass by the stem or foot, rather than the bowl, to avoid altering the temperature of the drink.
- Smile and be enthusiastic: Toasting is all about celebrating, so let your smile and enthusiasm shine through!
- Pay attention to clinking glasses: When clinking glasses, make sure to clink the rim or bottom of the glass rather than the fragile edges to avoid accidents.
Now that you know the various ways to say “cheers to you” in French, along with a few tips for toasting, you’re ready to raise your glass and join in the celebration. Whether it’s a formal gathering or a casual get-together, expressing your good wishes in French will surely make the moment even more special. Santé! À votre santé! Cheers to you!
