The 6th Series of Chinese Drinking Slangs includes “封顶一杯”(One more glass is the limit) and more. There are four.
1.“一口闷”(Drink it all in one go)
“Men” here means to drink a glass of wine quickly in one gulp. It means to propose drinking a glass of wine in one go, often with a sense of boldness and straightforwardness.
E.g: “Brothers, let’s drink this glass in one go. We won’t go home until we’re drunk tonight!”
Attn:Make sure you have enough alcohol tolerance to avoid physical discomfort or getting drunk and losing composure by forcing yourself to drink in one gulp. Also, observe the reactions of others present and don’t force others to do the same.
2.“酒要满,茶要浅”(Wine should be filled to the brim, while tea should be served shallow.)
When pouring wine at the dinner table, fill the wine glass to the brim, which reflects the host’s hospitality. When pouring tea, pour it shallowly to avoid scalding the guests with overflowing tea and also as a sign of politeness and respect.
E.g: “Uncle Zhang, look, I’ll fill your wine glass. We follow the principle that wine should be full and tea should be shallow.”
Attn:Be careful when pouring wine, control the strength and flow to ensure the wine fills the glass just right without overflowing. When pouring tea, pay attention to the water level, generally about seven – eighths full is appropriate.
3.“打圆场”(Smooth things over)
When there is an awkward situation or a difference of opinion at the dinner table, use clever words or actions to ease the atmosphere, resolve conflicts, and make the situation harmonious again.
E.g: “Everyone, stop arguing. Come on, have a drink. Let me smooth things over. We’re here for a happy gathering today.”
Attn:Speak appropriately and euphemistically. Don’t take sides with anyone. Stand on an objective and fair perspective to resolve conflicts and avoid making the situation worse.
4.“主陪”(The main host in a drinking party)
In some formal business banquets or traditional drinking parties, the person sitting facing the door is usually called the “主陪 (Zhǔ péi)”. The “主陪” is responsible for guiding the rhythm of the drinking party, arranging the order of toasts, taking good care of all the guests, and is the core organizer of the drinking party.
E.g: “Mr. Li, you’re sitting in the position of the ‘ 主陪 ‘ today. You must lead us to have a few more drinks.”
Attn:The “主陪” needs to have strong social and organizational skills and be familiar with dining – table etiquette. Always pay attention to the needs and emotions of the guests to ensure the smooth progress of the drinking party. Don’t just focus on your own drinking and ignore the guests.
4.“压桌菜”(Appetizer dishes served at the beginning of a meal)
Before the start of a drinking party, some dishes are placed on the table first. These dishes are called “压桌菜 (Yā zhuō cài)”. Their function is to let the guests have a little something to eat first and also create a good starting atmosphere for the drinking party.
E.g: “Everyone, have some ‘ 压桌菜 ‘ first to fill your stomach a little. Then we can drink well later.”
Attn:“压桌菜” usually consists of some dishes that are easy to eat and appetizing. The host can appropriately introduce the “压桌菜” to increase the interactivity of the drinking party.