In Japan, birthdays hold a special place in people’s hearts, similar to many cultures around the world. If you’re wondering how to say “birthday” in Japan, there are various expressions to consider. This guide will provide you with formal and informal ways to convey birthday wishes, along with some additional tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary. So let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of celebrating birthdays in Japan!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
When it comes to formal occasions and polite conversations, the Japanese language offers a few ways to express “birthday.” Here are the most commonly used phrases:
- お誕生日 (Otanjoubi): This is the primary and very formal way to say “birthday” in Japanese. It is often used in official settings, written invitations, or when congratulating someone important. For example, you could say, “お誕生日おめでとうございます (Otanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu)” which means “Happy Birthday.”
- 御生 (Gosei): Although less common than “お誕生日,” “御生” can be used formally to indicate someone’s birthday. It is often seen in written materials or in official greetings. For instance, you could say, “御生おめでとうございます (Gosei omedetou gozaimasu)” to wish someone a “Happy Birthday” in a more professional setting.
Informal Expressions:
In informal settings or among close friends, there are more casual ways to express “birthday” in Japanese. These phrases create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere during celebrations:
- 誕生日 (Tanjoubi): This informal expression is commonly used when talking with friends, family, or colleagues of equal or lower status. For example, you can say, “誕生日おめでとう (Tanjoubi omedetou)” to wish someone a “Happy Birthday” in a casual and warm manner.
- おめでとう (Omedetou): While the word itself simply means “congratulations,” it is widely used as a short form to wish someone a “Happy Birthday” casually. This phrase can be used alone or combined with other expressions like “誕生日” to become “おめでとうございます (Omedetou gozaimasu).” It’s a simple yet heartfelt way to celebrate birthdays with friends and family.
Tips for Celebrating Birthdays in Japan:
To add even more richness to your understanding of birthdays in Japan, here are some additional tips to consider:
1. Age is Significant:
In Japanese culture, particular milestones like turning 20, 60, and 77 hold great significance. They are celebrated with elaborate ceremonies known as “Coming of Age Day” (Seijin no Hi) and “Kiju” (celebrating reaching the age of 77). Be mindful of these important ages and show respect when acknowledging them.
2. Gifts and Wrapping:
Gift-giving is an important part of celebrating birthdays in Japan. When selecting a gift, consider the recipient’s age, preferences, and the occasion. Properly wrapping the gift in beautiful paper and attaching a thoughtful card or note adds an extra touch of sincerity to your gesture.
3. Sharing Birthday Cake:
Like in many other countries, birthday cakes have become a popular tradition in Japan. However, it’s worth noting that traditional Japanese sweets known as “Wagashi” are also quite popular during birthdays. Additionally, it’s customary to receive birthday cakes with candles representing the person’s age, and blowing out the candles while making a wish is often practiced.
Examples:
Now, let’s explore some examples of how to use the formal and informal expressions mentioned above in different contexts:
Example 1: Formal Expression – On a written invitation or greeting card:
“ご出席をお願い申し上げます。
お誕生日パーティにご参加いただき、
誠にありがとうございます。
お誕生日おめでとうございます。”(Translation: “We kindly request your presence.
Thank you very much for joining us at the birthday party.
Happy Birthday to you.”)
Example 2: Informal Expression – Conversing with a close friend:
“友達の誕生日だから、
誕生日おめでとう！
お祝いするために何か特別な計画はある？”(Translation: “It’s your friend’s birthday, so
Happy Birthday!
Do you have any special plans to celebrate?”)
Regional Variations:
While the formal and informal expressions mentioned above are widely used throughout Japan, there might be some regional variations in certain dialects or local customs. For example, in the Kansai region, people often use the abbreviated form “たん生 (Tansei)” instead of “誕生日 (Tanjoubi)” to refer to birthday celebrations. However, these variations are mainly limited to specific areas and are not commonly used nationwide.
With this guide, you now have a better understanding of how to say “birthday” in Japan, both formally and informally. Embracing the language and customs around birthdays will allow you to connect more deeply with the Japanese culture and its people. Whether you’re celebrating with friends, family, or colleagues, remembering these expressions and tips will help you create heartfelt and memorable birthday wishes in Japan!
