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A1how to say

How to say “Happy birthday” in Spanish

One fixed greeting plus a general congratulation that covers many other occasions.

Quick answer

¡Feliz cumpleaños!

the everyday version

¡Felicidades!

the alternative — see below for when

Which one to use

¡Feliz cumpleaños! is the standard birthday wish and never changes form, whoever you say it to.

¡Felicidades! is broader: it works for a birthday, a wedding, a new job or an exam passed. In Spain ¡enhorabuena! is reserved for achievements rather than birthdays.

All the versions

¡Feliz cumpleaños!Happy birthday!
¡Felicidades!Congratulations / best wishes — very broad.
¡Que cumplas muchos más!Many happy returns!
¡Feliz cumple!Happy birthday! — short and casual.
¡Que lo pases bien!Have a great time!

Where you are matters

The greeting is universal; in Mexico the birthday song is <b>Las mañanitas</b> rather than the English tune.

Check yourself

Which one is used for a birthday and also for a wedding?

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