🥂 Cheers Around the World: How Different Cultures Toast

One Drink, Many Traditions — Explore Global Cheers Rituals!

🌍 Introduction

From the clinking of glasses to heartfelt words exchanged before sipping, the ritual of saying “cheers” is a universal gesture—yet it varies beautifully across cultures. While the purpose remains the same—to celebrate togetherness, gratitude, or joy—the words and customs behind each toast offer unique insights into the soul of a nation.

In this article, we journey through continents to uncover the toasts that bring people together. Whether you’re traveling abroad, attending an international dinner, or simply curious, this guide to global cheers traditions will help you raise your glass the right way—wherever you are in the world.

🍷 What Does “Cheers” Really Mean?

At its core, “cheers” is a goodwill wish—a brief blessing or expression of happiness, health, or success before drinking. In many cultures, the toast isn’t just a formality; it’s a respectful moment to acknowledge friendship, unity, or remembrance.

Fun fact: The tradition of clinking glasses dates back centuries, with theories suggesting it was done to prove drinks weren’t poisoned or to symbolize mutual trust.

🗺️ Toasting Traditions by Country

Let’s explore how different cultures say “cheers” and what their customs reveal:

🇫🇷 France – Santé!

• Meaning: “Health”

• Pronunciation: Sahn-tay

• Tradition: Always make eye contact while toasting. It’s considered rude if you don’t.

• Fun Tip: In formal settings, avoid crossing glasses with others.

🇩🇪 Germany – Prost!

• Meaning: “Cheers”

• Pronunciation: Prohst

• Tradition: Germans take toasting seriously. Eye contact is essential, and there’s often a round of toasts before drinking.

• Fun Fact: Not maintaining eye contact during “Prost” is said to bring 7 years of bad luck—socially and romantically!

🇯🇵 Japan – Kanpai!

• Meaning: “Dry the glass” or “Empty your cup”

• Pronunciation: Kahn-pie

• Tradition: In formal settings, wait for the senior person to initiate the toast. Hold your glass slightly lower than theirs to show respect.

• Cultural Note: Sake cups are often held with two hands, especially when receiving a pour.

🇪🇸 Spain – ¡Salud!

• Meaning: “Health”

• Pronunciation: Sah-lood

• Tradition: Common during celebrations and casual gatherings. A warm, joyful vibe is key.

• Etiquette Tip: Avoid toasting with water—it’s considered bad luck in many Spanish-speaking countries.

🇷🇺 Russia – За здоровье! (Za Zdorovye!)

• Meaning: “To your health”

• Pronunciation: Zah zda-rov-yeh

• Tradition: Vodka is typically the drink of choice. Russians often toast to friendship, love, or deep sentiments. You’re expected to finish the drink after a toast.

• Interesting Fact: Russians may toast multiple times during a meal, each time with a deeper or more meaningful phrase.

🇮🇹 Italy – Cin Cin!

• Meaning: A cheerful, casual toast

• Pronunciation: Chin chin

• Tradition: Originally derived from Chinese! Light-hearted and often used with friends.

• Etiquette: Eye contact and a warm smile are part of the charm.

🇨🇳 China – 干杯 (Gān Bēi)

• Meaning: “Dry cup” (equivalent to “Bottoms up”)

• Pronunciation: Gahn-bay

• Tradition: Respect hierarchy—elders toast first. Junior members toast to seniors by holding their glass lower.

• Fun Tip: In formal banquets, don’t start drinking before the main toast.

🇧🇷 Brazil – Saúde!

• Meaning: “Health”

• Pronunciation: Sah-oo-jee

• Tradition: Friendly, fun, and casual. Brazilians love celebrations, and a cheer is often accompanied by music and dancing.

🇬🇷 Greece – ΥΓΕΙΑ! (Yamas!)

• Meaning: “To our health”

• Pronunciation: Yah-mas

• Tradition: Toasting is relaxed but heartfelt. Expect frequent toasts, especially during family dinners.

🇰🇷 Korea – 건배! (Geonbae!)

• Meaning: “Empty glass”

• Pronunciation: Gun-bay

• Tradition: Deeply respectful. Junior members pour drinks for elders, and everyone uses two hands when pouring or receiving.

• Cultural Tip: Turning away from elders while drinking is a sign of respect.

🥳 Universal Toasting Etiquette

Though phrases differ, some universal rules apply almost everywhere:

1. Make Eye Contact: Avoiding eye contact can be seen as dishonest or disrespectful.

2. Don’t Cross Arms: Clinking glasses with arms crossed over others is considered unlucky in many cultures.

3. Use the Right Drink: Toasting with water or empty glasses can be taboo in some regions.

4. Respect Elders: In many Asian cultures, age hierarchy matters. Let elders toast first.

5. Sincerity Matters: Even in casual settings, a heartfelt toast makes the moment memorable.

🍻 Fun & Unusual Toasting Customs

• Georgia (Country): A tamada (toastmaster) leads elaborate and poetic toasts throughout the feast.

• Hungary: Clinking beer glasses was taboo for over 150 years after Austrians celebrated the execution of Hungarian generals with beer toasts. It’s now fading, but still observed by some.

• Sweden: Use Skål! and don’t drink until everyone has made eye contact and said the word.

📚 Quick List: How to Say “Cheers” in 20 Languages

🍷 Conclusion: Raise Your Glass with Meaning

No matter where you go, the act of toasting bridges cultures, unites strangers, and enhances every celebration. Learning how different cultures say “cheers” not only enriches your travel and dining experience—it shows respect and curiosity for others’ ways of life.

So next time you pour a drink, remember: it’s not just about what’s in the glass, but the spirit in which it’s shared.