Prost
/pʁoːst/
The German phrase Prost is used to say cheers during a toast.
Prost is a common expression used as a toast when drinking with others. It is an informal way to say cheers.
Which one should you use?
While Prost is common for beer and casual settings, Zum Wohl is a more formal alternative often used with wine.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Swabia, locals may use the variation Proscht and in Bavaria, you might hear Prosit instead of Prost.
How do you pronounce it?
/pʁoːst/
When do people say it?
When saying Prost, it is customary to make eye contact with each person you are clinking glasses with.
Did you know?
- Because eye contact is so strictly tied to the toast, failing to look your partner in the eye while saying Prost is often jokingly said to bring seven years of bad luck in the bedroom.
- Long ago, you could use the word Prost as a polite response to someone sneezing, much like how English speakers say 'bless you'.
- The word 'Prost' can still be used in non-drinking contexts today, such as the greeting Prost Mahlzeit to wish someone a good meal.
Examples in context
- Prost!Cheers!
- Auf das Wochenende, Prost!To the weekend, cheers!
- Wir trinken auf deinen Erfolg, Prost!We drink to your success, cheers!
Example conversation
Julian and Hannah are having a drink at a cafe.
- JulianMöchtest du mit mir anstoßen?Would you like to toast with me?
- HannahJa, sehr gerne!Yes, I'd love to!
- JulianProst, Hannah!Cheers, Hannah!
- HannahProst, Julian!Cheers, Julian!
Sources
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry prost.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries prost, CC BY-SA 4.0.
