Robyn Lesley
As the new year approaches, it’s always nice to learn how to greet people in different languages. If you’re planning to celebrate the new year with Lebanese friends or colleagues, knowing how to say “Happy New Year” in Lebanese will surely impress them. In this guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal ways to wish someone a happy new year in Lebanese, as well as provide regional variations when necessary. So, let’s dive in and discover the joyous greetings of the Lebanese people!
1. Formal Greetings
If you’re looking to express your wishes in a more formal way, you can use the following phrases:
- Sana Sa’eeda! – (سنة سعيدة) – This phrase directly translates to “Happy New Year” and is the most common and widely used expression during this festive season. It is suitable for both written and spoken greetings.
- Kol Aam Wa Antom Bikhair! – (كل عام وأنتم بخير) – This expression means “May every year find you in good health.” It is a more formal and elaborate way of wishing someone a happy new year. You can use it when sending formal messages or when greeting someone in a formal setting.
- Wishing You a Prosperous New Year! – (أتمنى لك سنة جديدة مزدهرة) – If you want to take your formal greeting a step further and wish someone a prosperous new year, this phrase is perfect. It reflects wishes for success and abundance in the upcoming year.
2. Informal Greetings
When it comes to informal greetings, Lebanese people tend to use more relaxed and friendly expressions. Here are some informal ways to say “Happy New Year” in Lebanese:
- Kol Sanah Wa Enta Tayyeb! – (كل سنة وإنت طيب) – This informal expression can be used to wish someone a happy new year in a more casual setting. It translates to “May every year find you well” and is widely used among friends and family members.
- A Happy New Year to You and Your Loved Ones! – (سنة جديدة سعيدة لك ولأحبائك) – This warm and friendly greeting can be used when wishing someone a happy new year while including their loved ones. It reflects a sincere wish for joy and happiness for both the individual and their family.
- Happy New Year! Let’s Celebrate Together! – (سنة جديدة سعيدة! هيّا لنحتفل معاً) – If you want to add an invitation to celebrate together, this expression is ideal. It conveys excitement and enthusiasm for the new year while suggesting a joyful celebration with the person you’re addressing.
3. Regional Variations
Lebanon is a country with diverse regions, each having its own unique dialect and variations. While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood throughout most of Lebanon, there are slight variations you might come across in different regions:
“Happy New Year” in the Beqaa Valley region: Aam Sa’id!
“Happy New Year” in the South region: Kol Sane Wa Enta Salim!
“Happy New Year” in the North region: Jyoth Bl Khayer!
4. Tips and Examples
To make your greetings more heartfelt and connected to Lebanese culture, here are some tips and examples:
Tip 1: Add Personalization
Personalize your greetings by including the person’s name or a term of endearment. For example:
“Sana Sa’eeda, Ahmad!” – “Happy New Year, Ahmad!”
“Kol Aam Wa Antom Bikhair, Habibi!” – “May every year find you in good health, my dear!”
Tip 2: Use Lebanese Terms
Incorporate Lebanese terms or phrases to show respect for the local culture. For instance:
“Sana Sa’eeda, ya Helou!” – “Happy New Year, my sweet friend!”
“Kol Sanah Wa Inta Mabsout!” – “May every year find you happy!”
Tip 3: Share Wishes for Health and Joy
In Lebanese culture, it’s common to include positive wishes for health and joy in your greetings. Here are some examples:
“Sana Sa’eeda! Ahla w Sehha!” – “Happy New Year! Good health and wellness!”
“Kol Aam Wa Inta Sa’eed! Bala3 Sawt w Sa’ada!” – “May every year find you happy! Without noise and with joy!”
With these tips and examples, you’ll be ready to greet your Lebanese friends and colleagues in a warm and culturally appropriate way. Remember, the most important thing is to convey your sincere wishes for a joyous and prosperous new year!
