Language/Basque/Vocabulary/Drinks
Hi Basque learners! 😊
In this lesson, we are going to learn some useful vocabulary related to drinks in Basque culture. Whether you are ordering in a bar or chatting with friends, these words will definitely come in handy. So let's get started!
Consider exploring these related pages after completing this lesson: How to say "Good Bye"?, Days of the week, Verbs in Basque & Geography.
Vocabulary[edit | edit source]
Here are some common drinks in Basque with their Basque translations, pronunciations, and English translations:
| Basque | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Garagardo | /ɡaragarðo/ | Beer |
| Txakoli | /tʃakoˈli/ | Basque wine |
| Sagardoa | /saɡarˈdoa/ | Cider |
| Mahatsa | /maˈatsa/ | Apple juice |
| Edari biskea | /eˈðaɾi biˈskea/ | Double shot |
| Topa | /topa/ | Cheers |
| Zuria | /suɾia/ | White wine |
| Gorria | /goɾia/ | Red wine |
| Gaseosa | /ɡaseosa/ | Lemonade |
| Urrezko | /uɾɾesko/ | Champagne |
| Izozkia | /iˈsoskia/ | Ice |
Dialogue[edit | edit source]
Let's see an example dialogue so the reader can see the words in context:
- Person 1: Garagardo bat, mesedez. (One beer, please)
- Person 2: Ez problemik! (No problem!)
- Person 1: Topa! (Cheers!)
- Person 2: Topa!
Cultural Information[edit | edit source]
In Basque society, drinks play an important role in socializing, particularly in bars (also known as "txokos"). It is customary to order pintxos, small snacks or tapas, along with your drinks. This is a great way to try different types of food while enjoying a drink with friends. Additionally, Basque Country is known for its wine, particularly txakoli, which is a light and slightly acidic white wine that pairs well with seafood.
Interesting Facts[edit | edit source]
- In Basque culture, cider is poured in a unique way. Rather than directly from the bottle, it is traditionally poured from a height of around one meter (three feet) to aerate the cider and give it a refreshing taste. - Basque people are known for their love of gin and tonic, and some of the best gins in the world are produced in this region. - The Basque phrase for "bottoms up" is "zintzur ireki", which literally means "open the stitch".
To improve your Basque Vocabulary, you can also use the Polyglot Club website. Find native speakers and ask them any questions!
References[edit | edit source]