How to Say "Happy birthday" in Japanese
The most natural way to say "Happy birthday" in Japanese is お誕生日おめでとう. 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
Use this phrase when you want to wish someone a happy birthday. It is appropriate for friends, family, and colleagues. You can also use the formal version when addressing someone you respect or in a professional setting.
Say it out loud, get corrected
Reading it is not the same as saying it. Practice "Happy birthday" and thousands more with an AI coach that listens.
Examples in Japanese
| Japanese | English |
|---|---|
| 今日は友達の誕生日なので、お誕生日おめでとうと言いました。 | Today was my friend's birthday, so I said happy birthday. |
| お母さんの誕生日には、お誕生日おめでとうございますを言います。 | I say happy birthday to my mother on her birthday. |
The fastest way to remember it
Vocabulary you only read fades fast. Vocabulary you say out loud sticks. Hear お誕生日おめでとう, repeat it a few times, then use it in a real sentence. SPAIKING lets you practice exactly that, speaking Japanese with a coach that corrects your pronunciation in real time. You can start with two free conversations.
Frequently asked questions
Can I just say 'おめでとう' for a birthday?
Yes, but it's less specific and can be used for other celebrations too.
Learn Japanese by speaking it
Two free conversations. No card needed.