<P> An alcoholic drink, or alcoholic beverage, is a drink that contains alcohol (ethanol), a depressant which in low doses causes euphoria, reduced anxiety, and sociability and in higher doses causes intoxication (drunkenness), stupor and unconsciousness . Long - term use can lead to alcohol abuse, physical dependence, and alcoholism . </P> <P> Drinking alcohol plays an important social role in many cultures . Most countries have laws regulating the production, sale, and consumption of alcoholic beverages . Some countries ban such activities entirely, but alcoholic drinks are legal in most parts of the world . The global alcoholic drink industry exceeded $1 trillion in 2014 . </P>

What kind of alcohol is in alcoholic beverages