下戸(げこ)

A traditional word for someone who cannot or does not drink alcohol. The term is not derogatory and is often used by non-drinkers to describe themselves.

Common collocations

• 下戸(げこ)だから — because I'm a non-drinker
• 下戸(げこ)でも楽(たの)しめる — enjoyable even for non-drinkers
• 生(う)まれつきの下戸(げこ) — a born non-drinker

Similar words

• 上戸(じょうご) — a heavy drinker, someone who can hold their liquor

Etymology

Originally referred to lower-ranking households in the old tax system, which were allotted less sake. The ranking system gave more sake to higher-ranking (上戸(じょうご)) households and less to lower-ranking (下戸(げこ)) ones.

Cultural note

In Japan's drinking culture, being a 下戸(げこ) can feel socially awkward at company events (飲(の)み会(かい)), though attitudes have become more accepting in recent years.