Translation guide
The English word "cheers" is used in several distinct situations: as a toast when drinking, as a casual way to say thank you, and as a friendly sign-off. Japanese has different expressions for each of these, and using the wrong one can sound unnatural.
Saying "cheers" before drinking alcohol (or other beverages) in a social setting.
The standard Japanese toast, equivalent to "cheers". Used in both casual and formal situations. Literally means "dry cup".
Cheers!
Well then, let's make a toast.
Often used as a casual toast among colleagues after work, similar to "cheers to your hard work". Not a direct translation, but a common drinking opener in work-related settings.
Thanks for your hard work! Cheers!
Expressing gratitude in a relaxed, informal way, similar to "thanks".
The most common casual "thank you". Use this instead of trying to translate "cheers" literally.
Cheers! That really helped.
A very casual, brief "thanks". Can sound a bit offhand, so use with close friends or in very informal situations.
Loanword from English, used very casually among young people. Not as common as ありがとう.
Ending a message or email with a casual, warm closing like "cheers".
A common casual sign-off meaning "see you" or "bye". Works in messages to friends.
See you tomorrow! Cheers.
Slightly more polite than じゃあね, but still casual. Equivalent to "cheers, talk soon".
Cheers, talk later!
In Japanese messaging, it's common to end without a specific sign-off, especially if the conversation is ongoing. Adding a sticker or emoji can convey warmth.
Got it! Cheers 😊
乾杯 only means "cheers" as a toast. Using it to say "thanks" will cause confusion.
乾杯 is the universal toast. お疲れ様です is specifically for acknowledging someone's effort, often used at drinking parties with coworkers. Don't use お疲れ様です when toasting at a wedding or with friends who aren't colleagues.
Cheers.
サンキュー！
Cheers!