“Yamas” is the traditional cheers phrase in Cypriot.
So let us take a deeper look
“Yamas” is the traditional cheers phrase in Cypriot, which is a Greek dialect spoken on the island of Cyprus. The word comes from the Greek word υγείας (ygeias), which means “to your health.” In Cyprus, the word is often accompanied by the smashing of two glasses together, a tradition known as “saganaki.”
According to Cyprus Food and Travel, “Yamas” is not only used for toasting drinks, but also for expressing good wishes in general. The phrase is deeply ingrained in Cypriot culture and is a way to express gratitude and appreciation.
Interestingly, in some parts of Cyprus, locals also use the Turkish phrase “şerefe” when toasting, which means “to honor.” This is a result of the island’s complicated history and the diverse cultural influences that have shaped its traditions.
In terms of pronunciation, “Yamas” is pronounced as “yah-mas” with the emphasis on the first syllable. If you want to take the tradition one step further, you can also learn how to say “thank you” in Cypriot Greek, which is “ευχαριστώ” (efharisto).
In conclusion, whether you’re sharing a drink with old friends or meeting new ones, “Yamas” is a great way to connect with Cypriot culture and express your goodwill. As the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus once said, “We should look for someone to eat and drink with before looking for something to eat and drink…” so why not raise a glass and say “Yamas”?
| English | Cypriot |
|---|---|
| Cheers | Yamas |
| Thank you | Efharisto |
| To honor | Şerefe |
Video related “What is cheers in Cypriot?”
This video is about Cyprus and it provides some basic information about the country, such as its official name, capital, population, language, currency, largest city, national emblem, and national flag. The video also includes quiz questions to test the viewer’s knowledge about Cyprus.
On the Internet, there are additional viewpoints
‘Cheers’! Greek Cypriot – Stin iya mas! Turkish Cypriot – Serefe!