Toasting Traditions Around the World: Cheers, Prost, Kanpai

Tap a country to see its toast and customs.

Korea β€” Geonbae!

From a Sino-Korean phrase meaning "dry the glass," this is the classic call-and-response toast where everyone clinks glasses together to share the moment.

US / English-speaking β€” Cheers!

Said to originate from a medieval custom of clinking glasses hard enough to splash a bit of each other's drink, as a way to reassure each other neither cup was poisoned.

Germany β€” Prost!

You're expected to make eye contact with the other person while toasting β€” according to a well-known superstition, failing to do so brings seven years of bad luck in love.

Japan β€” Kanpai!

Literally meaning "empty the glass," it's common for the first round to be a toast followed by everyone drinking the glass in one go.

France β€” SantΓ©!

Meaning "to your health," this is the French toast typically shared with a gentle clink of wine glasses.

Russia β€” Za zdorovye!

Also meaning "to your health" β€” in Russia it's common to go around the table sharing several heartfelt toasts throughout a gathering, not just one.

Spain β€” Salud!

Spanish for "to your health" β€” after clinking glasses, making eye contact with the other person is considered good manners.

Toasting Etiquette Hides Country-by-Country Manners

It might look like nothing more than clinking glasses, but nearly every country has its own subtle toasting etiquette and fun superstitions. If you find yourself drinking abroad, knowing the local toasting customs beforehand can leave a good impression.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Germany, does skipping eye contact during a toast really bring bad luck?

There's no scientific basis, but it's a long-standing, fun German superstition that plenty of people still observe out of habit.

Does every country clink glasses when toasting?

No β€” in some cultures, a light lift of the glass without clinking serves as the toast instead.