kippis
/ˈkipːis/
kippis is the Finnish way to say cheers.
kippis means cheers and is a casual expression used when clinking glasses together before drinking.
Which one should you use?
While kippis is the casual term for a toast, malja is the more formal term used in official or serious settings.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
kippis is an informal way to say cheers and is most commonly used among friends or in casual social settings.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkipːis/
Did you know?
- The word kippis is actually a loanword from German, derived from the verb 'kippen', which means to tilt or tip over.
- When saying kippis, it is common practice to maintain eye contact with the person you are clinking glasses with. Failing to do so can be perceived as slightly rude or unfriendly in social settings.
- While kippis is for casual drinks, the formal malja literally means 'cup' or 'goblet'.
Examples in context
- Kippis kaikille!Cheers to everyone!
- Kippis, uusi auto!Cheers to the new car!
- Kippis, hyvää viikonloppua.Cheers, have a good weekend.
Example conversation
Anna and Mikko are celebrating a promotion at a restaurant.
- AnnaKippis, Mikko!Cheers, Mikko!
- MikkoKiitos, Anna. Kippis!Thanks, Anna. Cheers!
- AnnaOnnea uudesta työstä.Congratulations on the new job.
- MikkoKiitos paljon.Thank you very much.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry kippis, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries kippis, CC BY-SA 4.0.
