over drinks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "over drinks" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a casual meeting or conversation that takes place while consuming alcoholic beverages. Example: "Let's discuss the project details over drinks this Friday evening."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

They tried to send over drinks but Murray graciously declined.

The Guardian - Film

Strategic decisions (including hiring plans) can be made over drinks.

Forbes

You could even play one by ear, if you have left over drinks from another occasion.

WikiHow

The two met over drinks.

The New York Times - Style

Workers exchange ideas over drinks and at baseball games.

The New York Times

They planned to celebrate over drinks Friday night.

The New York Times

On one occasion, Mr. Dimitrov auditioned an applicant over drinks.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

If they over drink, they just make an ass out of themselves.

Huffington Post

Don't over drink.

WikiHow

The menus were brought to ponder over the drinks.

Independent

Don't over-eat, over-drink, or over-exercise.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "over drinks" to describe informal discussions or meetings in relaxed social settings, such as bars, restaurants, or parties. This conveys a sense of ease and informality.

Common error

While "over drinks" is acceptable in many situations, refrain from using it in highly formal or professional documents. Opt for more neutral phrases like "during a meeting" or "in a discussion" for official correspondence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "over drinks" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to specify the setting or circumstances in which an action (such as a discussion, meeting, or negotiation) takes place. Ludwig AI validates this with numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "over drinks" is a common and acceptable prepositional phrase used to describe informal discussions or meetings occurring in a relaxed setting. As validated by Ludwig AI, it functions as an adverbial phrase, often indicating a casual environment conducive to open communication. While prevalent in news and general conversation, writers should consider its appropriateness for highly formal contexts. Alternatives such as "during cocktails" or "at happy hour" can provide nuanced variations for specific situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

during cocktails

Replaces "drinks" with a more specific type of beverage, implying a slightly more formal or upscale setting.

at a cocktail party

Specifies a social event centered around cocktails, suggesting a more formal and festive atmosphere.

at happy hour

Focuses on the specific time and setting where discounted drinks are offered, emphasizing the social aspect.

while having a beer

Specifies a particular type of drink, suggesting a more casual and informal atmosphere.

while sharing a bottle of wine

Emphasizes the sharing aspect and a specific type of drink, suggesting a more intimate or celebratory occasion.

at the bar

Highlights the location where drinks are served, emphasizing the social and potentially lively environment.

in a pub

Specifies a type of establishment known for serving alcoholic drinks, indicating a more traditional or local setting.

during a coffee break

Shifts the focus to a non-alcoholic beverage, implying a more work-related or daytime setting.

during refreshments

Broadens the scope to include both drinks and snacks, suggesting a more general and potentially less alcohol-focused gathering.

over lunch

Replaces the focus on drinks with a meal, implying a more business-oriented or structured conversation.

FAQs

What does the phrase "over drinks" mean?

The phrase "over drinks" typically refers to informal discussions or meetings that take place while people are consuming alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages, often in a relaxed social setting.

What are some alternatives to saying "over drinks"?

You can use alternatives like "during cocktails", "at happy hour", or "while having a beer", depending on the specific context and setting.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "over drinks" in professional emails?

It depends on the context. In more formal professional emails, it's better to use neutral phrases like "during a meeting" or "in a discussion". However, in less formal settings or when referring to a casual conversation, "over drinks" might be acceptable.

What's the difference between "over drinks" and "at dinner" when describing a conversation?

"Over drinks" suggests a more informal and relaxed setting, typically focused on beverages and casual conversation. "At dinner" implies a more structured mealtime setting where the conversation may be more focused or formal.