How much hard liquor is considered one standard drink?

One standard drink of hard liquor is defined as 1.5 ounces. This measurement is significant because it represents a common measurement used in both legal and health contexts to gauge alcohol consumption and its effects. The 1.5 ounces typically corresponds to spirits that are around 40% alcohol by volume, such as whiskey, vodka, gin, and rum. Understanding this standard helps individuals to make more informed decisions regarding drinking and its implications, particularly in situations involving driving and legal regulations.

When people measure their alcohol intake, knowing that 1.5 ounces constitutes one drink can aid in assessing whether they are staying within recommended limits or legal thresholds for driving. This is particularly important in DWI contexts where the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit can directly affect personal safety and legal repercussions.