στην υγειά σας
stin ygeiá sas
The Greek phrase for "to your health" is στην υγειά σας (stin ygeiá sas).
στην υγειά σας is the standard phrase used when making a toast, typically when drinking alcohol.
Meaning: phrase used when making a toast (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the preposition στην (to the), the noun υγειά (health) and the polite/plural possessive pronoun σας (your/yours).
Which one should you use?
While στην υγειά σας is used for groups or when being polite to an individual, you should use στην υγειά σου when toasting a single person you know well.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
στην υγειά σας is a polite or plural version suitable for formal settings or groups. For an informal way to toast, you can use Γεια μας, which means "Our health".
How do you pronounce it?
stin ygeiá sas
When do people say it?
When toasting at weddings, the phrase Να ζήσετε! is used, which signifies "Live long!"
Did you know?
- The noun υγειά is actually a descendant of the Ancient Greek word ὑγεία, which was the personification of good health in mythology.
- While στην υγειά σας is the literal toast, it is common in Greece to clink glasses while maintaining direct eye contact. Failing to do so is sometimes jokingly seen as bad luck.
- In a formal setting, using the plural σας is not just for addressing a group, but is a required sign of respect when speaking to one person of higher status.
Examples in context
- Στην υγειά σας!To your health!This sentence is useful for practicing the toast στην υγειά σας.Tatoeba #2458886 by mululatv, translation #5340402 by CarpeLanam
Example conversation
Two friends are having dinner and raising their glasses.
- Κώστας KostasΤο φαγητό ήταν υπέροχο!To fagito itan yperoxo!The food was wonderful!
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΣυμφωνώ απόλυτα, Κώστα.Symfono apolytia, Kosta.I completely agree, Kostas.
- Κώστας KostasΛοιπόν, στην υγειά σας!Lopon, stin ygeia sas!Well then, to your health!
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΣτην υγειά σου, Κώστα!Stin ygeia sou, Kosta!To your health, Kostas!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries στην, υγειά, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
