Gratuliere!
neutral, Austria
In Austrian German you can say Gratuliere! for "congratulations". Herzlichen Glückwunsch! is the fuller, more formal wish. It is also called Alles Gute!
Meaning: congratulations (interjection)
Ways to say it
| German | Note |
|---|---|
| Gratuliere! | neutral, Austria |
| Herzlichen Glückwunsch! | formal |
| Alles Gute! | warm |
Gratuliere! is short and common for exams, weddings and news. Herzlichen Glückwunsch is also used on birthdays. Alles Gute! means "all the best".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
In writing, Herzlichen Glückwunsch is the safer choice. Gratuliere is best spoken.
Did you know?
- Gratuliere comes from Latin gratulari, to wish joy.
Examples in context
- Gratuliere zur Prüfung!Congratulations on the exam!
- Herzlichen Glückwunsch zur Hochzeit!Congratulations on the wedding!
- Alles Gute zum neuen Job!All the best with the new job!
Example conversation
Marie tells her friend Lukas he passed his driving test in Linz.
- LukasIch habe die Prüfung bestanden!I passed the test!
- MarieGratuliere, Lukas!Congratulations, Lukas!
- LukasDanke, ich bin so froh.Thanks, I am so happy.
