The dutch enjoy toasting just as much as every other country and it’s no surprise there are several terms they use depending what they are giving cheers to. When you visit the Netherlands you’ll often find people socializing, touching glasses, and giving thanks in small cozy pubs. If you want to join the fun here are some terms you can use.
Cheers in Dutch
Proost – The meaning for this word is “to health”. Proost is the most popular terms for cheers in the Netherlands and the Dutch aren’t afraid to use it several times a night to get the party started.
Sante – In a more formal setting where wine is being served, Sante is the perferred term to use.
Summary of Dutch Cheers Drinking Toasts
The Dutch are known for their love of toasting. Toasting is seen as an important part of social gatherings, such as dinners and parties, where friends come together to enjoy each other’s company. In the Netherlands, drinking toasts often involve a lot of enthusiasm, with everyone raising their glasses in unison and shouting out a toast before taking a sip from their drinks.
Dutch drinking toasts usually begin with “Proost!” which means “Cheers!” or “To your health!”. This is followed by the name of the person being honored or celebrated (e.g., Proost op Jan!).
The phrase “Op je gezondheid” (“to your health”) is also commonly used among friends when making a toast during meals or parties.
Other popular phrases include “Gezelligheid” (“good times”), “Lang leve het leven” (“long live life”), and “Een lange en gelukkige reis” (“a long and happy journey”).
These expressions have become so ingrained in Dutch culture that they even appear on beer bottles and advertising campaigns promoting alcohol consumption responsibly. No matter what kind of gathering it may be, it’s likely you’ll hear some sort of Dutch drinking toast at least once – so raise your glass high and join in on the fun!
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