Forgetting someone’s birthday can happen to anyone. If you’ve missed wishing someone a happy birthday in Japanese, it’s never too late to make it right by saying “belated birthday.” In this comprehensive guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express belated birthday greetings in Japanese, without forgetting a few regional variations that might come in handy. So let’s dive in and discover how you can convey your apologies and warm wishes to someone even if you missed their special day.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Belated Birthday
When it comes to expressing belated birthday wishes formally, you can use the phrase “okureta medetō gozaimasu” (遅れたお誕生日おめでとうございます) which translates to “belated happy birthday” in English.
Tips:
- Ensure you pronounce each syllable clearly.
- It is essential to use polite language in formal situations.
Example:
Sumimasen, okureta medetō gozaimasu. Otanjōbi omedetō gozaimashita.
すみません、遅れたお誕生日おめでとうございます。お誕生日おめでとうございました。
Translation: I’m sorry, belated happy birthday. Happy birthday once again.
Informal Ways to Say Belated Birthday
If you’re addressing someone in a more casual setting, such as a close friend or family member, you can use the slightly more relaxed phrase “okureta tanjōbi omedetō” (遅れた誕生日おめでとう).
Tips:
- This version is less formal, so it is appropriate for friends and peers.
- Make sure to adjust the level of politeness based on your relationship with the person.
Example:
Gomen, okureta tanjōbi omedetō! Tanjōbi omedetō gozaimashita.
ごめん、遅れた誕生日おめでとう！誕生日おめでとうございました。
Translation: Sorry, belated happy birthday! Happy birthday once again.
Regional Variations
In certain regions of Japan, specific expressions unique to the local dialects have evolved. Here is an example:
Tōhoku Region:
If you want to wish someone a belated birthday in the Tōhoku region, you can use the phrase “someni medetō” (遅ねぇメデトー) which means “belated congratulations” or “belated happy birthday.”
Example:
Gomen ne, someni medetō! Medetō gozaimashita yo.
ごめんね、遅ねぇメデトー！おめでとうございましたよ。
Translation: Sorry, belated congratulations! Congratulations.
Tips for Apologizing and Adding Warmth
Saying belated birthday wishes is not just about the phrase itself; it’s also essential to convey your sincerity and apologize for forgetting. Here are some additional tips to help you add warmth to your greetings:
1. Use Apologetic Language:
Don’t be afraid to express your apologies genuinely. Adding simple words like “gomen” (ごめん) or “sumimasen” (すみません) meaning “I’m sorry” can go a long way in showing your regret.
2. Add Personal Touch:
Incorporate personal details or memories related to the person’s birthday to show that you care and remember their special moments.
3. Share Well Wishes:
Along with saying “belated birthday,” make sure you express your heartfelt wishes for happiness, health, and success in the coming year or any other personalized greetings you may have.
In Conclusion
Now that you have learned different ways to say belated birthday in Japanese, both formally and informally, you can confidently apologize and offer warm wishes to someone whose birthday you missed. Remember to use the appropriate level of politeness and adjust your expressions based on your relationship with the person. Don’t forget to add your personal touch and heartfelt apologies to make your belated birthday greetings even more meaningful. By following these tips and using the examples provided, you’ll be able to convey your well wishes accurately and sincerely.
