Meaning
Used when toasting or when someone sneezes.
Cultural Background
In Spain, it is very common to say 'Jesús' instead of 'Salud' when someone sneezes, especially among older generations. Mexicans often use 'Salud' for the first sneeze, 'Dinero' for the second, and 'Amor' for the third. If there is a fourth, they might say 'y mucha fuerza' (and a lot of strength). When toasting, it is considered bad luck in many Spanish-speaking countries to toast with water or to not look the other person in the eye.
Eye Contact
Always look people in the eye when saying 'Salud' during a toast. It's a sign of sincerity.
No Water
Avoid toasting with water if possible; some cultures consider it bad luck for the person you are toasting.
Meaning
Used when toasting or when someone sneezes.
Eye Contact
Always look people in the eye when saying 'Salud' during a toast. It's a sign of sincerity.
No Water
Avoid toasting with water if possible; some cultures consider it bad luck for the person you are toasting.
The Response
If someone says 'Salud' to you, the correct response is always 'Gracias'.
Test Yourself
What do you say when someone sneezes?
Tu amigo estornuda: '¡Atchis!'. Tú dices...
'Salud' is the standard response to a sneeze.
Complete the toast.
¡Salud ____ nuestro éxito!
We use 'por' to indicate the reason for the toast.
Match the phrase to the context.
1. ¡Salud! (clinking glasses) | 2. La salud es importante. | 3. ¡Jesús!
These represent the three main ways 'health' concepts appear.
Complete the conversation.
A: ¡Atchis! B: ¡Salud! A: ________.
It is polite to say 'thank you' after someone wishes you health.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
The Two Worlds of 'Salud'
Celebration
- • Toasts
- • Parties
- • New Year
- • Weddings
Politeness
- • Sneezes
- • Elevators
- • Classrooms
- • Meetings
Practice Bank
4 exercisesTu amigo estornuda: '¡Atchis!'. Tú dices...
'Salud' is the standard response to a sneeze.
¡Salud ____ nuestro éxito!
We use 'por' to indicate the reason for the toast.
1. ¡Salud! (clinking glasses) | 2. La salud es importante. | 3. ¡Jesús!
These represent the three main ways 'health' concepts appear.
A: ¡Atchis! B: ¡Salud! A: ________.
It is polite to say 'thank you' after someone wishes you health.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsIt is neutral and can be used in any context, from a bar to a wedding.
No, you should say 'Perdón' (Excuse me), and others will say 'Salud' to you.
It is a religious tradition to invoke protection, though 'Salud' is also common now.
Usually yes, but if someone sneezes 10 times, you can stop after the third!
Related Phrases
Brindis
similarA toast
Que te mejores
specialized formGet well soon
Sano y salvo
builds onSafe and sound
Saludos
similarGreetings
