When it comes to wishing someone a happy birthday in Japanese, there are different expressions and variations depending on the level of formality and the region. In this guide, we will cover formal and informal ways of saying happy birthday in Japanese, along with some tips, examples, and useful phrases to express your warm wishes on such a special occasion.
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Formal Ways to Say Happy Birthday
When addressing someone senior or in a formal setting, it’s important to use polite and respectful language. Here are some formal phrases to express your birthday wishes in Japanese:
1. お誕生日おめでとうございます (O-tanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu)
This is the most common and polite way to say “happy birthday” in Japanese. It can be used for anyone regardless of their age or gender.
Example: 先生、お誕生日おめでとうございます！ (Sensei, o-tanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu!) – Teacher, happy birthday!
2. お誕生日おめでとうございますご家族さまとお過ごし下さい (O-tanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu, go-kazoku-sama to o-sugoshi kudasai)
This is a more formal and extended way to wish someone a happy birthday, which also includes a wish for spending time with their family.
Example: 社長、お誕生日おめでとうございますご家族さまとお過ごし下さい！ (Shachou, o-tanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu, go-kazoku-sama to o-sugoshi kudasai!) – Boss, happy birthday! I hope you have a wonderful time with your family!
Informal Ways to Say Happy Birthday
When addressing friends, family, or someone younger, it is common to use more casual and informal language. Here are some informal expressions for wishing someone a happy birthday:
1. お誕生日おめでとう (O-tanjoubi omedetou)
This casual expression is commonly used among friends and family members to wish someone a happy birthday.
Example: お母さん、お誕生日おめでとう！ (Okaasan, o-tanjoubi omedetou!) – Mom, happy birthday!
2. 誕生日おめでとう (Tanjoubi omedetou)
This is an even more casual variation of the expression and is commonly used among close friends.
Example: 兄貴、誕生日おめでとう！ (Aniki, tanjoubi omedetou!) – Bro, happy birthday!
Additional Phrases and Tips
1. Adding the person’s name:
It’s always appreciated to include the person’s name when wishing them a happy birthday.
Example: 田中さん、お誕生日おめでとうございます！ (Tanaka-san, o-tanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu!) – Tanaka-san, happy birthday!
2. Using honorifics:
When addressing someone with a higher status or age, it’s respectful to add appropriate honorifics to their name.
Example: 高橋先生、お誕生日おめでとうございます！ (Takahashi-sensei, o-tanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu!) – Teacher Takahashi, happy birthday!
3. Including a personalized message:
It’s always a nice gesture to include a personalized message alongside your birthday wishes, such as expressing your gratitude or sharing a special memory.
Example: めちゃくちゃ楽しい一年をありがとうございました！お誕生日おめでとう！ (Mechakucha tanoshii ichinen o arigatou gozaimashita! O-tanjoubi omedetou!) – Thank you for an incredibly fun year! Happy birthday!
4. Regional Variations:
While the expressions mentioned above are widely used across Japan, there might be some regional variations or dialects that have their own unique ways of saying happy birthday. However, it’s important to note that these regional variations are not necessary for everyday conversations and are more commonly seen in local festivals or celebrations.
Now that you have learned the formal and informal ways of saying happy birthday in Japanese, along with some additional tips and examples, you can confidently express your warm wishes on this special occasion. Birthdays are a celebration of life and an opportunity to show your loved ones how much they mean to you, so take this chance to spread joy and happiness with these heartfelt expressions.
