When it comes to enjoying a refreshing glass of draught beer, it’s always helpful to know how to properly order and talk about it in Spanish. Whether you’re traveling to a Spanish-speaking country, conversing with Spanish-speaking friends, or simply expanding your language skills, this guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways to say “draught beer” in Spanish, along with some regional variations that you may encounter during your journey.
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Formal Ways to Say Draught Beer
If you want to convey a more formal tone or if you’re in a formal setting, these are the phrases you can use to refer to draught beer:
1. Cerveza de barril
This is the most common way to say “draught beer” in a formal context. The phrase “cerveza de barril” directly translates to “beer from the barrel” which accurately describes the fresh, unpasteurized beer usually served on tap.
2. Cerveza tirada
In some Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in Argentina and Uruguay, the term “cerveza tirada” is more commonly used to refer to draught beer. It comes from the verb “tirar,” which means “to pull” or “to pour.”
3. Cerveza de grifo
In Spain, you can also use the term “cerveza de grifo” to ask for draught beer. The word “grifo” means “tap,” and this phrase literally translates to “beer from the tap.”
Informal Ways to Say Draught Beer
When you find yourself in a more casual setting or talking with friends, you can use these phrases to refer to draught beer:
1. Chela/chela de barril
Tip: “Chela” is a popular slang term used in Mexico, Central America, and some parts of South America to refer to beer in general. When combined with “de barril” (from the barrel), it becomes “chela de barril” or simply “chela” to specifically refer to draught beer.
2. Birra/birra de barril
In some countries, such as Argentina and Uruguay, locals commonly use the word “birra” as a casual way to refer to beer. To specify draught beer, you can say “birra de barril” or just “birra.”
3. Caña
Tip: In Spain, particularly in the southern regions, it’s common to use the word “caña” to refer to a small draught beer served in a small glass. Ordering a “caña” is a great way to blend in with the locals and experience the regional beer culture.
Regional Variations
While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood across Spanish-speaking countries, it’s essential to be aware of regional variations. Here are a few examples:
Mexico:
- Chela/chela de barril (informal)
- Cerveza de barril (formal)
Argentina and Uruguay:
- Birra/birra de barril (informal)
- Cerveza tirada (formal)
Spain:
- Caña (informal)
- Cerveza de grifo (formal)
Example Conversation:
Person 1: ¿Qué te gustaría beber?
Person 2: Me gustaría una cerveza de barril, por favor. ¿Tienes alguna recomendación?
Person 1: Nuestro birra de barril artesanal es muy popular.
Person 2: Entonces, tráeme una birra de barril, por favor.
Remember, the key to successfully ordering draught beer in Spanish is to be confident and use the phrases that suit your desired level of formality. Whether you opt for the more formal expressions such as “cerveza de barril” or use the casual slang terms like “chela” or “birra,” knowing how to say draught beer in Spanish will enhance your cultural experience and create opportunities for meaningful connections.
