Klingons don’t just drink - they drink with purpose. Whether you're raising a glass of bloodwine or something less lethal, knowing the right toasts can turn a simple gathering into a battle-worthy feast. Here’s how to honour your companions (or challenge them) in true Klingon fashion.
Essential Klingon Drinking Toasts
- ’IwlIj jachjaj’ – Literally, ‘May your blood scream.’ A classic toast, often used before battle or a particularly rowdy drinking session.
- ‘Qapla’!’ – ‘Success!’ A versatile cheer, perfect for celebrating victories - or just surviving the night.
- ‘Heghlu’meH QaQ jajvam’ – ‘Today is a good day to die.’ Reserved for truly epic moments (or when someone’s had one too many).
- ‘yIbuSQo’!’ – ‘Don’t hesitate!’ A challenge disguised as encouragement. Use it when someone’s taking too long to drink.
- ‘tlhIngan maH!’ – ‘We are Klingons!’ A rallying cry for solidarity among warriors (or tipsy friends).
When to Use Them
Klingon toasts aren’t just for drinking - they’re for setting the tone. Use ‘IwlIj jachjaj’ to kick off a night of revelry, or ‘yIbuSQo’!’ to mock a hesitant drinker. Save ‘Heghlu’meH QaQ jajvam’ for when things get truly intense (or when someone spills their drink).
Warning: Klingon drinking culture is competitive. If someone toasts you, you’re expected to match their intensity - or risk dishonour.
Pronunciation Guide
’IwlIj jachjaj’
/ˈʔɪw.lɪd͡ʒ d͡ʒɑt͡ʃ.d͡ʒɑd͡ʒ/“May your blood scream”
A traditional battle toast, often used before drinking.
Qapla’!
/qʰɑpʰˈlɑʔ/“Success!”
A versatile cheer for victories or celebrations.
Heghlu’meH QaQ jajvam
/ˈhɛɣ.luʔ.mɛx qʰɑqʰ d͡ʒɑd͡ʒˈvɑm/“Today is a good day to die”
A dramatic declaration of readiness for battle or extreme situations.
More Klingon Phrases to Master
If you’re serious about Klingon, check out our guide on Klingon honor code phrases or test your wit with Klingon riddles.
