Meaning
A toast, encouraging people to drink together.
Practice Bank
3 exercisesThe host raised his glass and shouted, '_______!' to encourage everyone to drink together.
At the wedding banquet, the guests all raised their glasses and said, '_______!' to congratulate the newlyweds.
After a successful project, the team celebrated by saying, '_______!' and clinking their glasses.
🎉 Score: /3
The term '干杯' (gānbēi) literally translates to 'dry cup'. '干' (gān) means 'dry' or 'to dry', and '杯' (bēi) means 'cup' or 'glass'. The expression likely originated from the custom of emptying one's cup in a single gulp, signifying a complete toast. This practice is common in many cultures as a sign of conviviality and respect during celebrations or gatherings where alcoholic beverages are consumed. The exclamation mark emphasizes the enthusiastic and encouraging nature of the phrase, prompting everyone to drink together. It's a direct equivalent to the English 'cheers!' or 'bottoms up!'. While the exact historical moment of its coinage isn't precisely documented, the individual characters have ancient origins, and their combination to form this common toast reflects a long-standing tradition of shared drinking in Chinese culture, akin to how similar phrases developed in other languages. Its usage implies a collective act of drinking to celebrate, congratulate, or mark an occasion.
