What is kanpai?

Kanpai (乾杯) is a Japanese toast, similar to "cheers" in English. It's a common expression used when people are making a toast before drinking alcoholic beverages, but can also be used in other celebratory contexts.

Here's some key information about Kanpai:

  • Meaning: The literal translation of kanpai is "dry cup" or "empty the glass," implying that everyone should finish their drink. However, it's not always taken literally and it is not compulsory to finish your glass.

  • Usage: Kanpai is typically used at the beginning of a meal or drinking session. One person, often the host or someone in a leadership position, will initiate the kanpai, and everyone will repeat the word while raising their glasses.

  • Etiquette: When saying kanpai, it's polite to raise your glass slightly lower than those of your superiors or elders to show respect.

  • Beyond Alcohol: Although most commonly associated with alcoholic beverages, kanpai can also be used to celebrate other events, like birthdays or achievements. A round of applause could be an alternative as well.

  • Regional Variations: There aren't significant regional variations in the pronunciation or usage of kanpai within Japan.

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