How to offer a toast in English at a banquet was an exam question in this year's examination for young prefecture and county level officials in Guangdong province, as reported in the China Daily.

The Chinese phrase, "gan bei", literally means "dry cup" in English, or roughly translated, means "to drink your cup dry".

The examination took place in South China University of Agriculture in Guangzhou last weekend.

The question was said to have floored many of the exam-takers, who complained that it was beyond their expectations.

But officials who drew up the exam questions argued that this is a practical and useful information to know, as many young officials have to participate in social events involving foreigners.

Although no official word was given regarding the correct answer, a popular drinking expression – "bottoms up" – may fit the bill.