στην υγειά σας
stin ygeiá sas
The English phrase 'salud' can be expressed in Greek as στην υγειά σας (stin ygeiá sas).
This phrase is used as a toast when drinking to wish others good health.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to 'to the health of you'.
Which one should you use?
While στην υγειά σας is a formal and direct way to say 'to your health', the more common, colloquial way to say 'Cheers!' during a toast is Γεια μας!
How does it change in a sentence?
You can use στην υγειά σου instead of στην υγειά σας when toasting with a single friend or someone you know well. The form στην υγειά σας is used when toasting a group of people or when addressing one person formally.
How do you pronounce it?
stin ygeiá sas
Did you know?
- In Greece, it is common to avoid clinking glasses when toasting with water, as some traditional superstitions suggest this can bring bad luck.
- The word υγειά shares an unexpected root with the English word 'hygiene', as both stem from the Ancient Greek concept of being healthy or sound.
- Ancient Greeks used a similar concept of toasting to the gods, but they would often pour a libation, or a liquid offering, onto the ground before drinking.
Examples in context
- Στην υγειά σας!Stin ygeia sas!To your health!
- Στην υγειά σας, φίλοι μου!Stin ygeia sas, filoi mou!To your health, my friends!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries στην, υγειά, CC BY-SA 4.0.
