Celebrating someone’s birthday is a special occasion that brings joy and happiness. If you have a Ukrainian friend, family member, or acquaintance whose birthday is coming up, it’s always thoughtful to wish them a happy birthday in their native language. In this guide, we will explore how to say “happy birthday” in Ukrainian, both formally and informally. Whether you want to impress someone or simply show your appreciation, these phrases will come in handy!
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Formal Wishes:
If you are addressing an older person, your boss, or someone you have a formal relationship with, it’s best to use a more polite and respectful language. Here are a few ways to say happy birthday formally in Ukrainian:
1. З Днем Народження!
Pronunciation: “Z Dnem Narodzhennya!”
This is the most common and standard way to wish someone a happy birthday in Ukrainian. It literally translates to “with your birthday,” and it is the equivalent of “happy birthday” in English. It is a simple, yet effective phrase that can be used in any formal context.
2. Нехай все мрії збуваються в цей день!
Pronunciation: “Nekhay vse mriyi zbuyayutsya v tsey den!”
This expression means “May all your dreams come true on this day!” It is a heartfelt and more elaborate way to wish someone a happy birthday. Using this phrase shows that you genuinely care for the person and want their special day to be filled with joy and fulfillment.
3. Бажаю щастя, здоров’я та успіхів у всіх починаннях!
Pronunciation: “Bazhayu shchastya, zdorov’ya ta uspikhiv u vsikh pochynannyakh!”
This phrase conveys a wish for happiness, good health, and success in all endeavors. It is a more comprehensive way to extend your birthday greetings, emphasizing the importance of these aspects in the person’s life. Using this formal expression will surely make the recipient feel valued and appreciated.
Informal Wishes:
When it comes to friends, peers, or younger people, a more casual approach is often preferred. Here are some informal ways to say happy birthday in Ukrainian:
1. З Днем Народження, бро/друже!
Pronunciation: “Z Dnem Narodzhennya, bro/druzhe!”
This is a friendly and informal way to say “happy birthday, bro/friend!” Using this phrase creates an atmosphere of closeness and camaraderie. It’s perfect for wishing a happy birthday to a buddy, close friend, or someone you share a casual relationship with.
2. Вітаю з Днем Народження! Бажаю гарно відсвяткувати цей день!
Pronunciation: “Vitayu z Dnem Narodzhennya! Bazhayu garbo vidsvyatkovuvaty tsey den!”
This informal phrase means “Congratulations on your birthday! I wish you to celebrate this day in a great way!” It is a more expressive way to express your wishes, giving the person encouragement to enjoy their special day to the fullest. It’s an ideal phrase to use when you want to convey your excitement and enthusiasm for the birthday person.
3. Вітаю з Днем Народження! Зичу бути щасливим/щасливою і веселим/веселою завжди!
Pronunciation: “Vitayu z Dnem Narodzhennya! Zichu buty shchaslyvim/shchaslyvoyu i veselym/veseloyu zavzhdy!”
This phrase conveys warm and friendly birthday wishes, encouraging the person to always be happy and joyful. It’s a perfect way to show that you care about their well-being and want them to have a lifetime of happiness. Use this expression when you want to leave a lasting impression and make the birthday person feel special.
Conclusion
Celebrating birthdays is a heartfelt tradition, and wishing someone a happy birthday in their own language can create a lasting impact. In Ukrainian, you have learned how to say happy birthday both formally and informally. From the standard “З Днем Народження” to more elaborate and personalized wishes, there are various phrases you can use based on the nature of your relationship with the birthday person. Remember to consider their age, your level of familiarity, and the context before deciding on the most suitable phrase.
By incorporating these phrases into your birthday greetings, you will demonstrate your thoughtfulness and genuine care for the Ukrainian birthday celebrant. Use them in greeting cards, messages, or when celebrating in person to make the moment all the more special. Happy birthday, or as Ukrainians would say, “З Днем Народження!”
