Meaning
Used when drinking together.
Cultural Background
Eye contact is mandatory. It is considered rude to look away while clinking glasses. Similar to the Netherlands, eye contact is crucial. It is believed that failing to do so brings bad luck. The youngest person usually lowers their glass below the elder's glass as a sign of respect. You should never cross arms with someone else while clinking glasses.
Eye Contact
Never, ever look away while clinking glasses. It is the most important part of the ritual.
Gezelligheid
Remember that 'Proost' is about the shared feeling of 'gezelligheid'. It is a social glue.
Meaning
Used when drinking together.
Eye Contact
Never, ever look away while clinking glasses. It is the most important part of the ritual.
Gezelligheid
Remember that 'Proost' is about the shared feeling of 'gezelligheid'. It is a social glue.
Test Yourself
Which word do you use when clinking glasses in the Netherlands?
What do you say when you toast?
Proost is the standard word for a toast.
Fill in the missing word.
___ op onze vriendschap!
Proost is used to toast to something.
Match the situation to the correct action.
You are at a bar with a friend. What do you do?
Eye contact is mandatory in Dutch toasting culture.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesWhat do you say when you toast?
Proost is the standard word for a toast.
___ op onze vriendschap!
Proost is used to toast to something.
You are at a bar with a friend. What do you do?
Eye contact is mandatory in Dutch toasting culture.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes, you can use it for any drink, though it is most common with alcohol.
No, it is perfectly acceptable in a professional social setting.
It is traditional, but you can just raise your glass if you can't reach.
Related Phrases
Op je gezondheid
synonymTo your health
Gezellig
builds onCozy/convivial
Proosten
specialized formTo toast
