alles Gute zum Geburtstag, Schwester
The English phrase "happy birthday sister" is translated into German as alles Gute zum Geburtstag, Schwester.
This phrase is used to wish a sister a happy birthday. While using the word Schwester is grammatically correct, German speakers more commonly use the person's name or a nickname when giving the greeting.
Which one should you use?
You may encounter different versions depending on the tone or region. For a more affectionate informal tone, you can say Alles Liebe zum Geburtstag, Schwesterchen! (Lots of love on your birthday, little sister!) or Herzlichen Glückwunsch zum Geburtstag, Schwesterherz! (Congratulations on your birthday, sister dear!).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Bavaria, you might hear the regional variation Ois Guade zu Deim Gbuadsdog, Schwester! to mean "All the best on your birthday, sister!"
How does it change in a sentence?
The word Schwester is a singular noun and does not change when used in this greeting.
Did you know?
- In Germany, it is considered bad luck to wish someone a happy birthday before the actual date. Doing so is called vorgratulieren and is widely avoided to avoid bringing misfortune.
- The term Schwesterherz literally translates to 'sister heart', a common way to express deep affection for a sibling.
- The German word Schwester is a direct linguistic relative of the English word 'sister', both descending from the Proto-Germanic word *swestēr.
Examples in context
- Herzlichen Glückwunsch zum Geburtstag, meine geliebte Schwester! Möge dieser Tag voller Freude und Lächeln sein, so wie du mein Leben jeden Tag erhellt.Congratulations on your birthday, my beloved sister! May this day be filled with joy and smiles, just like you brighten my life every day.
- Alles Gute zum Geburtstag, Schwester! Die Jahre mögen vergehen, aber unsere Liebe wird immer stärker. Danke, dass du immer an meiner Seite bist.All the best on your birthday, sister! The years may pass, but our love grows stronger. Thank you for always being by my side.
- Alles Gute zum Geburtstag, Schwester, du bist die Beste.Happy birthday, sister, you are the best.
Example conversation
Julian gives a gift to his sister Julia.
- JulianÜberraschung! Alles Gute zum Geburtstag, Schwester.Surprise! Happy birthday, sister.
- JuliaOh, vielen Dank, Julian!Oh, thank you so much, Julian!
- JulianHier ist dein Geschenk.Here is your present.
- JuliaDu bist der beste Bruder.You are the best brother.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Geburtstag, Schwester, alles, zum, CC BY-SA 4.0.
