Yec’hed mat: the Breton toast for raising a glass with a smile
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“Yec’hed mat” means exactly: “health!”, in other words, a phrase used to raise a toast and wish someone good health. In everyday French, it can be translated as “cheers!”, “to your health” or “good health to everyone.” It is the Breton equivalent of the little phrase that gets glasses raised without making a fuss. It is mainly used when clinking glasses, during a meal, a celebration or drinks with friends. For example: “Yec’hed mat!” says the Breton uncle, raising his glass before drinking. Another example: at a birthday party, everyone clinks glasses and cheerfully calls out “Yec’hed mat!” before resuming the conversation. It is a Breton toast that is still very much alive, reflecting the region’s attachment to its language and table customs. It is simple, warm and distinctive: a small expression, but a great classic for drinking to the good health of the company. Origin / context: this expression became established through everyday use in Brittany, shaped by local habits, oral transmission and small regional nuances. Selected type: Translations.
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Where: Bretagne