Herzlichen Glückwunsch

Congratulations / Happy (birthday, etc.)

Intermediate Phrase

🔊

Pronunciation

/ˈhɛʁtslɪçn̩ ˈɡlʏkvʊnʃ/

💡

Cultural Note

Germans take birthday wishes seriously — you must NEVER congratulate someone before their actual birthday, as this is considered bad luck. 'Herzlichen Glückwunsch' is used for all happy occasions: birthdays, weddings, promotions, new babies, and achievements.

📝 Example Sentences

Herzlichen Glückwunsch zum Geburtstag!

Happy birthday!

Herzlichen Glückwunsch zur Hochzeit!

Congratulations on your wedding!

Herzlichen Glückwunsch zur bestandenen Prüfung!

Congratulations on passing the exam!

#polite #celebration #essential #communication

Related Words

Alles Gute

All the best / Best wishes

Phrase

feiern

to celebrate

Verb

gratulieren

to congratulate

Verb

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