Translation guide
A social gathering where alcohol is consumed, common in Japanese work and social culture.
A casual or semi-formal gathering for drinking, often with colleagues or friends.
The most common and general term for a drinking party, used for both casual and work-related gatherings.
There's a company drinking party tonight.
A more formal term for a banquet or party, often with a set course and entertainment. Used for larger, organized events.
The year-end party is a big banquet.
A literary or formal term for a drinking feast. Rare in everyday conversation.
A drinking feast was held.
An informal drinking session with coworkers after work, often at an izakaya.
A seasonal drinking party, often with colleagues or friends, to celebrate the end of the year or the new year.
A party to say goodbye or welcome someone, usually involving alcohol.
A relaxed, informal drinking session with friends, not necessarily a structured party.
飲み会 is the everyday term for any drinking party, from casual to semi-formal. 宴会 implies a more structured event, often with a set course meal and possibly entertainment, and is used for larger gatherings like company parties or wedding receptions.
To invite someone to a drinking party, use 飲みに行かない？ (Wanna go drinking?) or 飲み会があるんだけど、来ない？ (There's a drinking party, wanna come?). Avoid direct translations like パーティー, which often implies a Western-style party with dancing or a buffet.
Let's toast at the New Year party.
We'll hold a welcome party for the new employees.
Let's drink at home tonight.