alles Gute zum Geburtstag
/ˈʔaləs ˈɡuːtə tsʊm ɡəˈbuːɐ̯tstaːk/
The English phrase 'happy birthday to you' is expressed in German as alles Gute zum Geburtstag.
Alles Gute zum Geburtstag is a common and straightforward way to say Happy Birthday! In German. You may also use the celebratory expression Herzlichen Glückwunsch zum Geburtstag!, which means 'Heartfelt congratulations on your birthday!'
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase alles Gute zum Geburtstag literally translates to 'all the best for the birthday'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Bavaria, you might hear Ois Guade zum Geburtstag! instead of Alles Gute zum Geburtstag!
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase alles Gute zum Geburtstag, the word Gute is a nominalized adjective, which is why it is capitalized and takes the '-e' ending.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʔaləs ˈɡuːtə tsʊm ɡəˈbuːɐ̯tstaːk/
Did you know?
- If you wish someone 'Happy Birthday' before the actual day, it is considered bad luck in many parts of Germany. You should wait until the clock strikes midnight to avoid bringing misfortune to the person.
- It is common for the birthday person to be the one providing the cake and treats for their colleagues at work, rather than receiving them as surprises.
- In some German regions, there is a tradition called Geburtstagskranz where a wreath of candles is placed on the table to accompany the birthday wishes.
Examples in context
- Alles Gute zum Geburtstag!Happy birthday to you!This sentence shows how to use the phrase alles Gute zum Geburtstag.Tatoeba #1625192 by Eldad, translation #64233 by shekitten
- Ich wünsche dir alles Gute zum Geburtstag.I wish you all the best for your birthday.
- Alles Gute zum Geburtstag, mein lieber Freund!Happy birthday, my dear friend!
Example conversation
Hannah and Julian meet at a cafe for his birthday.
- HannahHallo Julian, alles Gute zum Geburtstag!Hello Julian, happy birthday!
- JulianDanke, Hannah! Das ist sehr nett von dir.Thanks, Hannah! That is very kind of you.
- HannahMöchtest du heute Abend etwas feiern?Do you want to celebrate something tonight?
- JulianJa, gerne! Lass uns etwas essen gehen.Yes, gladly! Let's go eat something.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry alles Gute zum Geburtstag, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
