How to Say “Cheers” in Portuguese
The Most Common Word: Saúde
The most widely used way to say “cheers” in Portuguese is saúde, pronounced sah-OO-jee. The word literally means “health” and is used in the same way that English speakers say “to your health” when raising a glass. Whether you are in Brazil, Portugal, or another Portuguese-speaking country, saúde is universally understood and appropriate for almost any occasion.
How to Pronounce “Saúde”
Pronunciation can be tricky for beginners. In Brazilian Portuguese, it is usually pronounced as sah-OO-jee. In European Portuguese, it sounds a bit more like sah-OO-d. Here’s a breakdown:
- Brazilian Portuguese: sah-OO-jee
- European Portuguese: sah-OO-d
Other Ways to Say “Cheers” in Portuguese
While saúde is the classic toast, there are other informal and playful ways to say “cheers” depending on the region or your relationship with the people you are with.
Tim-tim
Tim-tim is another popular way to say “cheers” in both Brazil and Portugal, especially among friends. It mimics the sound of glasses clinking together. Use this when you are in a more relaxed or festive setting.
À nossa (To us)
À nossa means “to us” and is often used among friends or family to celebrate togetherness. It is pronounced as ah NAW-sah.
Other Toasting Expressions
- Felicidades – To happiness or congratulations
- À sua (formal) – To yours (used when toasting someone respectfully)
- À vida – To life
When and How to Use “Saúde” and Other Toasts
Toasting is a cherished tradition in Portuguese-speaking countries, commonly done at meals, celebrations, and gatherings. It is polite to make eye contact with your companions when clinking glasses and to take at least a sip after the toast. Here are some tips:
- Raise your glass slightly and say “saúde” before drinking.
- It is considered bad luck to toast with water in your glass.
- During formal occasions, use “saúde” or “à sua” for respect.
- For informal or fun settings, “tim-tim” or “à nossa” are excellent choices.
Regional Differences: Brazil vs. Portugal
Both Brazilians and Portuguese use “saúde” as the primary toast, but informal expressions may differ slightly. In Brazil, “tim-tim” is very popular among young people. In Portugal, “à nossa” is frequently heard in family gatherings and among friends. Regardless of the region, using these phrases correctly will help you blend in and enjoy local hospitality.
Cultural Tips for Toasting in Portuguese
- Always wait for someone to propose a toast before drinking at formal gatherings.
- Clinking glasses with everyone at the table is a sign of camaraderie.
- Thank your host after the toast by saying “obrigado” (if you are male) or “obrigada” (if you are female).
Practice Your Portuguese Toasts with Talkpal
Learning how to say “cheers” in Portuguese is just the beginning of your language journey. At Talkpal, our AI-powered language learning tools help you master pronunciation, vocabulary, and cultural etiquette so you can speak confidently in real-life situations. Practice your toasts and explore more Portuguese expressions with us for a richer, more authentic experience.
Conclusion
Whether you are at a lively Brazilian barbecue, a family dinner in Lisbon, or a virtual gathering with Portuguese-speaking friends, knowing how to say “cheers” is a great way to connect and share good times. Remember “saúde” as your go-to toast, and try out expressions like “tim-tim” and “à nossa” to impress your companions. For more tips and interactive practice, join the Talkpal community and take your Portuguese skills to the next level!
