0791 Here's looking at you, kid

Explanation

A toast or phrase expressing affectionate regard, admiration, or fond farewell, often with a hint of nostalgia or bittersweetness.

Origin

Made famous by Humphrey Bogart playing Rick Blaine in the 1942 film Casablanca.
He says it several times to Ilsa Lund (Ingrid Bergman), most memorably during their poignant farewell scene.
Reportedly an ad-lib by Bogart, possibly something he said to Bergman off-camera while teaching her poker.
Its exact meaning is ambiguous but conveys deep affection, acknowledgment, and perhaps a touch of world-weary charm.

Alternatives

Slang/Informal (Affection/Regard):

You're alright, you know that?
Props to you. (Acknowledging respect/admiration)

More Formal Toasts:

A toast to [Name]!
To your continued success/happiness!

Situational Appropriateness

Best suited for informal, personal moments between people with some closeness (partners, close friends, family).
Can work as a toast in semi-formal settings if the tone fits and people get the reference.
The use of kid makes it potentially inappropriate or condescending when addressing strangers, superiors, or in very formal contexts.

Misunderstanding Warnings

The positive, affectionate intent is usually clear. Someone unfamiliar with the film might find the term kid slightly odd or patronizing depending on who says it to whom. The specific nuances of Bogart's character (world-weariness, romanticism) might be lost.

Examples

(Raising a glass to a close friend) To your success! Here's looking at you, kid.
(Said fondly to a partner during a quiet moment) Here's looking at you, kid.
(Looking at an old photo) We had some times, didn't we? Here's looking at you, kid.

Dialogue

Context

Couple celebrating quietly at home:

Person 1: (Raises glass) Happy anniversary. It's been wonderful.

Person 2: (Smiling, raises glass) Here's looking at you, kid. To many more.

(They clink glasses)

Response Patterns

A warm smile, a nod.
Returning the sentiment non-verbally (meeting the gaze).
Raising a glass in return (if toasting).
A simple Thanks or expression of affection.
Sometimes a playful Right back at ya.

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

After hearing it: The listener typically feels a sense of connection or affection, recognizes the iconic line, and responds warmly or simply shares the moment.
After saying it: Often followed by taking a sip of a drink (if toasting) or a meaningful pause and look. It's more about expressing feeling than starting dialogue.

Conversation Starter

No. It's typically used within a moment of connection, toasting, or farewell.

Intonation

Typically spoken softly, with warmth, intimacy, and perhaps a touch of Bogart-esque gravelly charm or melancholy.
Emphasis often on looking and you.
Here's LOOKING at YOU, kid.

Generation Differences

Highly recognized by older generations and film aficionados familiar with Casablanca. Younger generations might know it as a famous classic movie quote but may not use it themselves as readily.

Regional Variations

Globally recognized due to the film's classic international status.

Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn

🎲 Elementary, my dear Watson

[0791] Here's looking at you, kid