There are many ways we describe our level of intoxication after consuming alcohol. From feeling flushed to being plastered, the terminology varies depending on various factors. However, one term that stands out as a popular choice and is often used to describe a state that is not quite drunk but still intoxicating is “buzzed.”
Table of Contents
What It Means When You Say You’re Buzzed
When we say we’re buzzed, we generally mean that alcohol is making us feel good, but we wouldn’t go so far as to say we’re drunk. It’s a state often referred to as being tipsy. However, sometimes, even when we are leaning towards the drunk side, we might still describe it as a strong buzz. So what exactly does that mean?
The terms “buzzed” and “tipsy” are relatively synonymous. While everyone is different, women usually start feeling the effects of alcohol in the brain and body after consuming 1-2 drinks per hour, whereas men typically feel it after 2-3 drinks per hour.
If you’re feeling buzzed, you might experience the following:
- Increased talkativeness
- Heightened confidence to take risks
- Slightly slower motor skills
- Shorter attention span and memory
Being buzzed doesn’t come with symptoms as severe as being drunk. However, since it does affect motor skills and the brain, it’s still essential to have a designated driver if you’re out and feeling buzzed. Eventually, as you consume more drinks and move past the buzzed stage, you’ll likely start to feel drunk.
Definition of Being Drunk
Once you reach the state of being drunk, you might transition from using the term “buzzed” to words like “trashed” or “hammered.” This stage often comes with more severe signs and effects, including:
- Lack of coordination
- Poor judgment
- Slowed breathing and heart rate
- Vision issues
- Drowsiness
- Loss of balance
Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can lead to serious issues like dehydration, vomiting, injuries, seizures, and more. Therefore, it’s crucial to be cautious and watch for these signs in yourself and others.
How to Tell if You’re Drunk or Buzzed
To avoid any complications, it’s essential to understand the signs of being drunk before reaching that state. Additionally, recognizing when you’re crossing the line is crucial. The stronger the effects become, the more you consume alcohol and the longer the time period.
Different people react differently to alcohol. Some may not feel drunk after consuming eight shots, while others may start stumbling after just a few drinks. Various factors come into play, such as age, weight, drinking history, and the amount of food consumed that day.
Here are a few things to note when comparing “buzzed” to “drunk”:
- If you’re buzzed, you can typically remember what you did or are doing.
- People usually retain control over their speech and body when buzzed.
- Being drunk can bring about unpleasant effects and moods, while being buzzed often induces a feeling of happiness.
These are just a few considerations to keep in mind when going out for a night of drinking. Since alcohol intoxication levels vary, it’s important to prepare before heading out.
Taking Precaution
Understanding your limits is vital. When you know your personal threshold between being buzzed and being drunk, you can manage your alcohol intake and ensure a smooth evening.
To prevent getting drunk, stay hydrated. Pace yourself and drink water in between alcoholic beverages to avoid dehydration. Remember, although there is a slight difference between being drunk and buzzed, it’s essential to draw a clear line. That line can transform a great night into a terrible one. Whether you plan to have two drinks or six, always bring along a designated driver or someone who isn’t drinking.
For more information on the different levels of alcohol intoxication, you can visit the 5 WS website.
