How to Say “Cheers” in Languages around the World

What better way to celebrate with the locals than over a drink? You may be asked to join in a toast, so be ready. It’s always a nice surprise when a foreigner is able to say cheers in the local country’s language.

Most cheers are to honor your health and well-being. They translate loosely to “to your health”. Others simply mean cheers. Some languages translate differently, such as “kanpai” in Japanese, meaning to “empty the glass”. The locals of Moldova toast “noroc” wishing good fortune and luck to come.

All and all, learning to say cheers is one of the most fun, useful language phrases to know.

Say Cheers in Other Different Countries Languages

Say Cheers Languages Around World Group Toast — Christmas toast in Saigon.

The first history of cheers on paper was in 1919. However, the word’s origin dates back to 1225 AD as “makien cheres”, which grew to “What chere be with you?”, a common social greeting in 14th century England. As time evolved it took on the quicker “chere”, which was a friendly phrase.

Originally recorded as “makien cheres” in 1225 AD, the phrase evolved to “what chere be with you?” in the 14th century which was a common greeting in England. Eventually, ‘chere’ began to mean good humor. In 1919, the phrase was first written as the “cheers” we know today. There are countless ways people say cheers, whether through longer, thoughtful toasts, or another local language phrase that’s right for the moment.

One of the most important tips for cheers is to look the other toasters in the eye before you drink. This is commonplace throughout much of the world, especially in Scandinavian countries, such as Denmark. Shots are usually meant to be drunk at once, so take it like a champ! And do it in style with one of the best shot glasses to buy.

If you have a beer in your hand, take a healthy sip and put it back down; unless you wanna chug it. Most of the time, unless someone says something along the lines of “bottoms up” or “100%” there’s no need to down your glass.

If you’ve ever been without a cheer to give, just utter one of these foreign phrases and show off your cultured side. Or learn some famous drinking quotes and rattle one of those off. Here’s to your health!

Afrikaans: Gesondheid
Pronounced – Ge-sund-hate!

Chinese (Mandarin):干杯 / gān bēi
Pronounced – Gan bay!