Happy hour
Meaning: A period of discounted drinks at a pub or bar.
Happy hour is when drinks are cheaper—usually early evening to attract after-work drinkers. Despite the name, it's often longer than an hour. The concept originated in the US and spread worldwide. Some areas have restricted happy hour advertising.
Examples
- Happy hour is 5 to 7—two-for-one cocktails. 欢乐时光是5点到7点——鸡尾酒买一送一。La hora feliz es de 5 a 7: cócteles dos por uno.ハッピーアワーは5時から7時、カクテル2杯で1杯分の値段だよ。해피아워는 5시부터 7시까지, 칵테일 2잔에 1잔 가격이야.
- Let's catch happy hour. 我们赶上欢乐时光吧。Vamos a pillar la hora feliz.ハッピーアワーに間に合うように行こう。해피아워에 맞춰 가자.
- The happy hour deals here are brilliant. 这里的欢乐时光优惠太棒了。Las ofertas de la hora feliz aquí son geniales.ここのハッピーアワーのお得さは最高だよ。여기 해피아워 할인이 정말 좋아.
Pronunciation
/ˈhæpi aʊə/
Usage Guide
Context: bars, after work, deals
Tone: promotional, social
✓ Do Say
- Happy hour欢乐时光hora felizハッピーアワー해피아워
- During happy hour在欢乐时光期间durante la hora felizハッピーアワー中に해피아워 동안
- Catch happy hour赶上欢乐时光pillar la hora felizハッピーアワーに間に合う해피아워에 맞춰 가다
Common Mistakes
- Often longer than one hour
- Restricted in some UK areas
Origin & History
The term 'happy hour' for discounted drinks emerged in 1920s America. It spread to British pubs though has been restricted in some areas due to concerns about binge drinking. The concept of drawing the after-work crowd remains.
Etymology: From the happiness induced by cheap drinks
First recorded: 1920s America
Cultural Context
Era: 1920s onwards
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
Pop culture: After-work drinking culture
Regional notes: American origin, now universal.
Variations
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