auguri
auguri is the Italian phrase for best wishes or congratulations.
auguri is a versatile exclamation used for many different celebrations, such as birthdays, anniversaries, weddings and Christmas. You can add warmth to your message by saying tantissimi auguri, which means many many wishes or best wishes.
Which one should you use?
While auguri is used for general celebrations like birthdays, the word congratulazioni is used to express congratulations for a specific achievement, such as a promotion or a graduation.
When do people say it?
When someone says auguri to you, the standard way to respond is grazie (thank you).
Did you know?
- The word auguri traces its lineage back to the Roman 'augur', a priest who interpreted the will of the gods through the flight of birds.
- In a sarcastic tone, auguri! can be used to mean 'good luck with that' or 'you'll never manage it', similar to the English 'good luck' used ironically.
- While auguri is a joyful wish, the related verb augurare can be used to wish something bad upon someone, such as saying non ti auguro nemmeno il male, which means 'I don't even wish you ill'.
Examples in context
- Buon compleanno! Che tu possa realizzare tutti i tuoi sogniHappy birthday! May all your dreams come true
- Tanti auguri di buon compleanno!Many happy birthday wishes!
- Auguri per il tuo nuovo lavoro!Congratulations on your new job!
- Auguri a te e alla tua famiglia.Best wishes to you and your family.
Example conversation
Francesco visits Martina at her house to celebrate her birthday.
- FrancescoCiao Martina, tanti auguri!Hi Martina, many happy birthday wishes!
- MartinaGrazie mille, Francesco!Thanks a lot, Francesco!
- FrancescoHai ricevuto i tuoi regali?Did you receive your gifts?
- MartinaSì, sono stati bellissimi!Yes, they were beautiful!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries auguri, CC BY-SA 4.0.
