In Georgia, the occasion of New Year is greeted with warmth and joy, and knowing how to say “Happy New Year” can help you connect with the locals and immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you’re looking for formal or informal ways to wish someone a Happy New Year in Georgian, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll explore various greetings, regional variations, provide tips, and offer examples to help you navigate these festive greetings. So, let’s start spreading the joy!
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Formal Ways to Say Happy New Year in Georgian
If you’re in a formal setting or addressing someone with respect, using the proper formal greetings is essential in Georgian culture. Here are some formal expressions you can use:
1. გილოცავ ახალ წელს! (Gilotsav akhal ts’els!)
This is the simplest and most common way to say “Happy New Year” in Georgian. It can be used in any formal context and is suitable for both written and spoken greetings.
2. შენითაც გილოცავთ ახალ წელს! (Shenitats gilotsavt akhal ts’els!)
This expression translates to “I wish you a Happy New Year” and is another common way to extend formal greetings in Georgian. It emphasizes your good wishes towards the person you’re addressing.
Informal Ways to Say Happy New Year in Georgian
When among friends, family, or close acquaintances, using informal expressions to wish them a Happy New Year in Georgian can create a more personal and relaxed atmosphere. Here are some informal greetings you can use:
1. გილოცავ შობას დედო! (Gilotsav shobas dedo!)
This expression is a warm and informal way to say “Happy New Year” in Georgian. It literally translates to “I congratulate you on the New Year’s arrival” and is commonly used among friends and family.
2. წარმასალის გილოცავთ! (Ts’armasalits gilotsavt!)
This phrase can be loosely translated as “I congratulate you on the New Year!” It is another informal way to wish someone a Happy New Year and is often used in casual conversations.
Regional Variations
The majority of Georgians use the same expressions mentioned above to say “Happy New Year.” However, there might be slight variations in certain regions. Here are a couple of regional variations:
1. გილოცავ ახალ წელს და მეტყველ წლებს! (Gilotsav akhal ts’els da metkvel tslebs!)
This expression adds an extra touch by wishing “many more years” in addition to the Happy New Year. It’s commonly used in the Tbilisi region and showcases an extended well-wishing.
2. გილოცავ ახალ წელს და შობას დედო! (Gilotsav akhal ts’els da shobas dedo!)
This variation combines the informal greeting with the addition of wishing “good health.” It is commonly heard in the regions of Samegrelo and Guria.
Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to help you make the most out of your New Year greetings in Georgian:
- 1. Holiday Spirit: When saying “Happy New Year” in Georgian, it’s important to convey the warm holiday spirit. Smile, use a cheerful tone, and maintain eye contact to spread the joy effectively.
- 2. Festive Phrases: Alongside your best wishes, you can use other festive phrases, such as “გისურვებთ შობას დედო!” (gisurvebt shobas dedo, “I wish you a Merry New Year”) or “გიკვდით ძლეულსასწრეთ ახალ წელს!” (gik’vdit dzleulsastsret akhal ts’els, “Let’s celebrate the New Year with a bang!”).
- 3. Customized Greetings: To make your wishes more personal, add the person’s name: “გილოცავ ახალ წელს, [Name]!” (Gilotsav akhal ts’els, [Name]!).
- 4. Written Communication: If you’re sending a written message or card, consider adding a heartfelt paragraph to express your wishes and appreciation for the person you’re greeting.
Remember, the joy and warmth you share while expressing your Happy New Year wishes matter more than the words you choose. Georgian people appreciate the effort and thoughtfulness behind the greetings, so embrace the festive spirit and share the happiness!
