happy birthday

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العربية الفصحى
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/ˌhæpi ˈbɝθdeɪ/
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A warm wish for someone’s birthday.
Practice using happy birthday in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • Happy birthday, Mia! I hope you have a lovely day.
  • The children sang happy birthday before cutting the cake.
  • I wrote happy birthday inside the card.
  • They sent him a message saying happy birthday.
  • "Happy birthday, Grandpa," she said on the phone.

Similar words

many happy returns
have a great birthday

Meanings

Birthday wish

social
neutral
Said to wish someone a pleasant birthday.

Examples

  • Happy birthday, Mia! I hope you have a lovely day.
  • The children sang happy birthday before cutting the cake.
  • I wrote happy birthday inside the card.
  • "Happy birthday, Grandpa," she said on the phone.
  • They sent him a message saying happy birthday.

Similar words

many happy returns
have a great birthday

Etymology

The wish joins happy, meaning full of joy, with birthday, the yearly return of the day someone was born.

FAQ

What does happy birthday mean?

happy birthday is a friendly birthday wish.

When is happy birthday used?

Said to wish someone a pleasant birthday.

How do people reply to happy birthday?

Thank you is a common reply.

Is happy birthday formal?

It works for family, friends, colleagues, and formal birthday wishes.

Is congratulations the usual birthday greeting?

No. Happy birthday is the usual greeting for someone’s birthday.

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