What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "heartfelt congratulations to the birthday".
Which one should you use?
While herzlichen Glückwunsch zum Geburtstag is the standard phrase, you may also encounter Alles Gute zum Geburtstag, which is a very common and slightly more casual alternative meaning "All the best for your birthday".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a more formal way to congratulate someone, you can say Ich wünsche Ihnen alles erdenklich Gute zu Ihrem Geburtstag! (I wish you all the best on your birthday!). In informal settings, you might say Herzlichen Glückwunsch zum Geburtstag! Feier schön! (Heartfelt congratulations on your birthday! Have a great celebration!) or Ich wünsche dir alles erdenklich Gute zu deinem Geburtstag! (I wish you all the best on your birthday!).
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the contraction zum, which is a combination of zu dem and means "to the" or "on the" in this context.
When do people say it?
In German-speaking cultures, it is considered bad luck to wish someone a happy birthday before their actual birthday.
Did you know?
- In some German regions, it is traditional for the birthday person to bring a cake or treats to their coworkers or classmates rather than receiving them.
- The single word Glückwunsch functions as a compound that literally means 'luck-wish'.
Examples in context
- Herzlichen Glückwunsch zum Geburtstag! Ich erinnere mich noch gut an den Tag, an dem wir zusammen zum ersten Mal XYZ gemacht haben. Die besten Wünsche für einen wundervollen Tag!Heartfelt congratulations on your birthday! I still remember the day we first did XYZ together. Best wishes for a fantastic day!
- Alles Gute zum Geburtstag! Du bist ein wunderbarer Mensch und ich bin dankbar für unsere Freundschaft. Feier schön und lass dich reich beschenken!Everything good on your birthday! You are a wonderful person, and I am grateful for our friendship. Have a great celebration and may you receive many gifts!
- Ich sage nur: Herzlichen Glückwunsch zum Geburtstag.I only say: Happy birthday.
Example conversation
Laura greets Maximilian at his party.
- LauraHallo Maximilian, herzlichen Glückwunsch zum Geburtstag!Hello Maximilian, happy birthday!
- MaximilianVielen Dank, Laura!Thank you very much, Laura!
- LauraHier ist ein kleines Geschenk für dich.Here is a small gift for you.
- MaximilianDas ist wirklich lieb von dir.That is really sweet of you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Geburtstag, Glückwunsch, zum, CC BY-SA 4.0.
