Graduation is an important milestone in everyone’s life, and it’s always nice to congratulate someone on their achievements. If you’re looking to express your well wishes in Japanese, both formally and informally, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to say “happy graduation” in Japanese, including tips, examples, and regional variations.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Happy Graduation”
When addressing someone in a formal context, such as a teacher, colleague, or someone you don’t know well, it’s important to use polite language. Here are a few formal expressions you can use to congratulate someone on their graduation:
1. ご卒業おめでとうございます。
(go-sotsugyou omedetou gozaimasu)
Tip: This is the most commonly used phrase in a formal setting for congratulating someone on their graduation. It shows respect and well wishes for the recipient’s accomplishment.
2. 卒業おめでとうございます。
(sotsugyou omedetou gozaimasu)
Tip: This is a slightly less formal version of the previous phrase. It’s still appropriate to use in formal settings, but not as respectful and polite as adding “ご” (go) as a prefix.
3. ご卒業おめでとうございますまで。
(go-sotsugyou omedetou gozaimasu made)
Tip: Adding “まで” (made) at the end of the sentence reinforces the idea of congratulations until the graduation day, expressing your joy and anticipation for their attainment.
Informal Ways to Say “Happy Graduation”
When congratulating friends, classmates, or close acquaintances, it’s acceptable to use more informal language. Here are a few phrases to express your happiness in a less formal manner:
1. 卒業おめでとう！
(sotsugyou omedetou!)
Tip: This is a common and straightforward way to say “happy graduation” to your friends. It’s casual, yet sincere.
2. めっちゃ卒業おめでとー！
(meccha sotsugyou omedetou!)
Tip: This phrase is quite informal and commonly used among close friends. “めっちゃ” (meccha) is an informal intensifying word, expressing a high level of excitement and happiness.
Regional Variations
While the previously mentioned expressions are widely used across Japan, there might be some regional variations when it comes to congratulating someone on their graduation. Here are a couple of examples:
1. 卒業おめとさん！
(sotsugyou ometosan!)
Tip: The word “おめとさん” (ometosan) is a regional variation of “おめでとうさん” (omedetousan), which means “Congratulations!” in a specific dialect spoken in the Tohoku region of Japan.
2. 卒業おっめと！
(sotsugyou ommeto!)
Tip: “おっめと” (ommeto) is a Kansai dialect variation of “おめでとう” (omedetou). This phrase is commonly used in the Kansai region, including cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe.
Conclusion
Congratulating someone on their graduation in Japanese is an excellent way to show your support and happiness. Whether you’re in a formal or informal setting, using the appropriate expressions will help you convey your message effectively. Remember, it’s always respectful to consider the formality of the situation when choosing the right phrase.
So, go ahead and try using these phrases to celebrate your friends’ or colleagues’ graduation in Japanese. And remember, a warm and sincere message always leaves a lasting impression.
