How to Say Drinking Alcohol in Spanish: Formal and Informal Ways

If you’re planning to visit a Spanish-speaking country or simply want to expand your language skills, it’s helpful to know how to say “drinking alcohol” in Spanish. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express this concept. Please note that while there might be some regional variations, we will primarily focus on the standardized Spanish language spoken in most Spanish-speaking countries.

Formal Ways to Say Drinking Alcohol

When it comes to more formal situations or polite conversations, you can use the following expressions to convey the act of drinking alcohol in Spanish:

1. Tomar alcohol: This is the most common and widely understood phrase for “drinking alcohol” in Spanish. It can be used in a variety of contexts and is appropriate for both formal and informal situations. For example:
   “No deberías tomar alcohol si vas a conducir” (You shouldn’t drink alcohol if you are going to drive).
2. Consumir alcohol: This formal expression is similar to “tomar alcohol” and is another commonly used phrase. It is often used in more official contexts or when referring to the consumption of alcohol as a general concept. For example:
   “El consumo de alcohol es muy común en las celebraciones” (The consumption of alcohol is very common at celebrations).
3. Ingerir alcohol: This is a more technical or medical term used to refer to the ingestion of alcohol. It is often used in formal discussions or healthcare settings. For example:
   “El doctor le advirtió que no debe ingerir alcohol mientras toma ciertos medicamentos” (The doctor warned him not to ingest alcohol while taking certain medications).

Informal Ways to Say Drinking Alcohol

In more casual or informal settings, you can opt for the following expressions to talk about drinking alcohol:

1. Tomar copas: This is a popular phrase used across various Spanish-speaking countries to refer to having a few drinks or enjoying a round of alcoholic beverages. It has a relaxed and friendly connotation. For example:
   “¿Quieres salir a tomar unas copas esta noche?” (Do you want to go out for drinks tonight?)
2. Chupar: This is a colloquial term commonly used in Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries to mean “to drink alcohol heavily” or “to have a drink.” It is less formal compared to other expressions and is typically used in more informal contexts. For example:
   “Me encanta chupar una buena cerveza en el bar del pueblo” (I love having a good beer at the local bar).
3. Echarse un trago: This informal expression, which translates to “to have a drink” or “take a shot” in English, is often used to refer to consuming alcohol in a social setting. For example:
   “¡Vamos a echarnos unos tragos y celebrar juntos!” (Let’s have some drinks and celebrate together!)

Regional Variations

While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood and used in multiple Spanish-speaking countries, it’s worth noting that there are some regional variations. For instance, in certain Latin American countries, such as Mexico and Argentina, the term “chupar” can also mean “to suck.” Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the context in which these expressions are used and adapt accordingly.

Tip: When using these expressions, it’s essential to be aware of the cultural context and the people you are communicating with. Some countries or individuals might have specific attitudes towards alcohol consumption that differ from others. Always approach conversations around this topic respectfully and responsibly.

In conclusion, knowing how to say “drinking alcohol” in Spanish can be useful for various situations and conversations, whether formal or informal. By using phrases like “tomar alcohol,” “consumir alcohol,” “ingerir alcohol,” “tomar copas,” “chupar,” or “echarse un trago,” you’ll be able to navigate social interactions smoothly and engage in meaningful discussions. Remember to respect cultural norms and drink responsibly. ¡Salud!