How to Say "Happy birthday" in Italian
The most natural way to say "Happy birthday" in Italian is Buon compleanno. Tap the speaker above to hear it, then say it back out loud. That is the fastest way to make it stick.
Other ways to say it
When to use it
You can use 'Buon compleanno' when you want to wish someone a happy birthday directly. It's appropriate for friends, family, and colleagues. 'Tanti auguri' is often used in more informal situations, while 'Auguri di buon compleanno' is suitable for formal occasions.
Say it out loud, get corrected
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Examples in Italian
| Italian | English |
|---|---|
| Buon compleanno, Marco! | Happy birthday, Marco! |
| Tanti auguri per il tuo compleanno! | Best wishes for your birthday! |
The fastest way to remember it
Vocabulary you only read fades fast. Vocabulary you say out loud sticks. Hear Buon compleanno, repeat it a few times, then use it in a real sentence. SPAIKING lets you practice exactly that, speaking Italian with a coach that corrects your pronunciation in real time. You can start with two free conversations.
Frequently asked questions
What do I say to someone on their birthday?
You can say 'Buon compleanno' or 'Tanti auguri' depending on the formality of the situation.
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