Joyeux anniv'
casual, texting
The short slang way to wish a happy birthday in French is Joyeux anniv'. Friends also say Bon anniv' in texts and at parties. It is also called Bon anniversaire and Joyeux anniversaire.
Meaning: birthday wish, informal (phrase)
Ways to say it
| French | Note |
|---|---|
| Joyeux anniv' | casual, texting |
| Bon anniv' | casual |
| Bon anniversaire | everyday |
| Joyeux anniversaire | standard |
The word anniv' is a clipped form of anniversaire. It is written with an apostrophe and is common in messages and on social media.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For family, teachers or colleagues the full Joyeux anniversaire or Bon anniversaire is better.
Did you know?
- French has many clipped words ending in an apostrophe in texts, such as anniv' for anniversaire.
Examples in context
- Bon anniv', mon pote !Happy birthday, my friend!
- Bon anniversaire, papa.Happy birthday, dad.
Example conversation
Hugo sends a message to his friend Léa on her birthday.
- HugoJoyeux anniv' Léa !Happy birthday, Léa!
- LéaMerci Hugo !Thanks, Hugo!
- HugoTu fais une fête ce soir ?Are you having a party tonight?
- LéaOui, viens vers vingt heures.Yes, come around eight.
