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March 24, 2026
干杯(乾杯)gānbēi(gan1bei1)
干杯 (gān bēi) is a common expression used when making a toast during a drinking occasion. It literally means 'dry cup,' implying that one should finish their drink. This expression is often heard in social gatherings, celebrations, and formal events in China, symbolizing good wishes and camaraderie.
Frequency#1796DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, toasting is a significant part of social etiquette, especially during meals and celebrations. It reflects respect and goodwill, with different rules about who to toast and when, making it an essential skill for social interactions.
Memory Tip
Imagine raising a dry cup filled with your favorite drink, toasting with friends, and shouting '干杯!' The character 干 (gān) resembles a person raising a glass, while 杯 (bēi) represents a cup. Visualize a joyous gathering where everyone empties their cups in a toast!
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AI Study Notes for 干杯
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine raising a dry cup filled with your favorite drink, toasting with friends, and shouting '干杯!' The character 干 (gān) resembles a person raising a glass, while 杯 (bēi) represents a cup. Visualize a joyous gathering where everyone empties their cups in a toast!
Usage Notes
A common mistake is to use 干杯 in overly formal situations or when toasting to someone in a serious context, as it is generally casual. Be aware of the tone when saying it, as the first tone is high and level, and the second tone is slightly rising. It’s often paired with phrases like '为你干杯!' (Wèi nǐ gān bēi! - Cheers to you!).
HSK Study Tips
干杯 is an HSK Level 4 word, which connects well with other vocabulary related to social interactions and dining. Students should practice its pronunciation and usage in sentence structures that involve social gatherings, such as parties or banquets.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, toasting is a significant part of social etiquette, especially during meals and celebrations. It reflects respect and goodwill, with different rules about who to toast and when, making it an essential skill for social interactions.
Common Mistakes
Learners often forget the correct tones, saying 'gān bèi' instead of 'gān bēi.' Additionally, some may use 干杯 too formally in serious contexts; it’s best reserved for casual settings.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 干杯
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Grammar Patterns of 干杯
干杯 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 5 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Raise your glasses and drink to the bride and bridegroom.
4
拉瓦雷举起酒杯，提议为新婚夫妇干杯。
lā wǎ léi jǔ qǐ jiǔ bēi， ， tí yì wéi xīn hūn fū fù gān。
Lavalais raised his glass to propose a toast to the newlyweds.
Cultural Notes for 干杯
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, toasting is a significant part of social etiquette, especially during meals and celebrations. It reflects respect and goodwill, with different rules about who to toast and when, making it an essential skill for social interactions.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
While toasting is common in both Chinese and Western cultures, in China, the act of toasting often involves more elaborate customs, such as standing up, making eye contact, and sometimes even drinking a shot, compared to the more casual Western practice.
Frequently Asked Questions about 干杯
You should use 干杯 during social drinking occasions, when proposing a toast to friends or family.
Yes, but be mindful of the context and relationships; it's more casual than some formal toasts.
Typically, you should drink after saying 干杯, as it signifies finishing your drink.
