Pure alcohol in a typical shot
A 30 ml shot at 40% ABV contains about 9.5 grams of pure alcohol. A U.S. 1.5 fl oz shot at 40% ABV contains about 14 grams. Neither example applies to every bar pour, bottle, proof, or product.
| Example label or pour | Approx. pure alcohol | What changes the result? |
|---|---|---|
| 30 ml spirits at 40% ABV | 9.5 g | Pour volume |
| 45 ml spirits at 40% ABV | 14.2 g | Pour volume |
| 30 ml spirits at 50% ABV | 11.8 g | ABV |
| 700 ml bottle at 40% ABV | 220.9 g | Full container |
How standard-drink counts differ by country
Using the 30 ml, 40% example (about 9.5 g), the same pour is roughly 1.0 standard drink in Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and Singapore; 0.7 U.S. standard drinks; and 1.2 UK units. Country references are different measurement systems, not safety thresholds.
Calculate any spirit from the label
Multiply volume in ml by ABV as a decimal and by 0.789 to estimate grams of pure alcohol. Then choose your country's reference. Use standard drinks calculator for a serving, standard drinks per container for a full bottle, or ABV to proof when a product is marked in proof.
Alcohol and safety
Do not use standard-drink counts, proof, or an online BAC estimate to decide whether to drive, operate equipment, or make a medical or legal decision. If alcohol is involved, arrange a sober way home before drinking.