Alles Gute zum Geburtstag! (al-les goo-teh tsoom geh-boorts-tahg)
This is the most common way to say "happy birthday" in German, and it translates to "all the best for your birthday." It's a warm, friendly phrase that you can use in both formal and informal situations.
Herzlichen Glückwunsch zum Geburtstag! - (herts-lich-en glueck-woonsh tsoom geh-boorts-tahg)
This phrase translates to "heartfelt congratulations on your birthday." It's slightly more formal than "Alles Gute zum Geburtstag," and it's often used in written messages or cards.
Viel Glück und viel Segen! - (feel glueck oont feel zeh-gen)
This phrase is part of a traditional German birthday song and means "much luck and many blessings." While it's not commonly used as a standalone birthday greeting, you might hear it if someone decides to sing the song at a birthday party.
Glück und Gesundheit! - (glueck oont geh-soont-height)
This phrase translates to "luck and health!" and is a shorter, more casual birthday greeting. You can use it with friends, family members, or anyone you have a close relationship with.
Feier schön! - (fai-er shoen)
This phrase means "celebrate beautifully!" and can be used as a warm, informal birthday greeting. It conveys your wish for the birthday person to have a wonderful celebration.
Geburtstag! - (geh-boorts-tahg)
This is the German word for "birthday." While it's not a birthday greeting in itself, you can use it in phrases like "Ich wünsche dir einen schönen Geburtstag!" which means "I wish you a beautiful birthday!"
Zum Wohl! - (tsoom voal)
This phrase is often used when making a toast, and it translates to "to your health!" If you're at a birthday celebration and there's a toast, you can use this phrase to express your good wishes for the birthday person.
