'Kanpai' is the standard Japanese word for 'Cheers!'. During business or social toasts, it is polite to clink your glass slightly lower than your senior's rim.
๐ก Cultural Background
Literally meaning 'dry the glass', the term spread in the late 19th century. Holding your glass lower is a traditional way to physically display humility and high respect.
๐ฌ Useful Conversation Phrases
When everyone is ready, lift your drink, call out 'Kanpai!', and gently tap rims, making sure your glass sits slightly lower than your boss's or client's glass.
๐ Is everyone's glass ready? Well then, thank you for your hard work, cheers! / When toasting with seniors, it is polite to tap your glass slightly lower.
โ Bilingual Restaurant Quiz
When clinking glasses with bosses, seniors, or clients in Japan, what is the polite etiquette?