Wishing “Happy birthday” in Italian is a great way to impress your friends and family who speak the language. In this article, we will teach you the perfect Italian birthday wishes and phrases that will make you sound like a fluent speaker. From the classic “Buon Compleanno” to the informal “Tanti Auguri” and other expressions, you’ll have everything you need to celebrate a birthday in Italian.
The Classic “Buon Compleanno”
“Buon Compleanno” is the direct translation for “happy birthday” in Italian. You can use this expression on its own or add terms of endearment such as “cara” or “amico mio/amica mia”. For example, “Buon compleanno, cara!” (Happy birthday, dear) or “Buon compleanno, amico mio!” (Happy birthday, my friend).
The Informal “Tanti Auguri”
Another common way to wish someone a happy birthday in Italian is by saying “Tanti Auguri“, which translates to “many wishes.” This expression is also used to say “Merry Christmas.” It’s an informal way but still commonly used. You can say “Tanti auguri di buon compleanno!” (Many wishes of a happy birthday) or “Tantissimi auguri!” (Very many wishes).
Other Unique Expressions to Say Happy Birthday in Italian
In Italy, you might come across different expressions to say happy birthday, such as “Cento di questi giorni!” (100 more years) or “Tanti auguri in ritardo” (happy belated birthday). Additionally, you may hear Italian words like “torta di compleanno” (birthday cake) or “Regalo di compleanno” (birthday gift/present). These phrases will make your wishes unique and special.
Party Time!
During an Italian birthday party, you might want to know some common phrases like “Festa di compleanno” (birthday party) or “Invitati” (guests). You may also hear “Brindisi di compleanno” (birthday toast) or “Festeggiato/festeggiata” (birthday boy/girl). These phrases will make you feel like part of the celebration.
| Italian Phrase | English Translation |
|---|---|
| Buon Compleanno | Happy Birthday |
| Buon compleanno, cara! | Happy birthday, dear! (for women) |
| Buon compleanno, bella! | Happy birthday, beautiful! (for women) |
| Buon compleanno amico mio /amica mia | Happy birthday, my friend (male / female) |
| Tanti auguri | Many wishes |
| Tanti auguri di buon compleanno! | Many wishes of a happy birthday |
| Tantissimi auguri! | Very many wishes |
| Auguroni! | Big wishes (informal) |
| Cento di questi giorni! | 100 of these days |
| Tanti auguri in ritardo | Happy belated birthday |
| Torta di compleanno | Birthday cake |
| Cendeline | Small candles |
| Regalo di compleanno | Birthday gift/ present |
| Festa di compleanno | Birthday party |
| Invitati | Guests |
| Brindisi di compleanno | Birthday toast |
| Festeggiato/festeggiata | Birthday boy/birthday girl |
FAQs
Italians typically wish happy birthday by saying “Buon Compleanno” which means “happy birthday” in Italian. They can also add terms of endearment such as “cara” or “amico mio/amica mia” to make the greetings more personal.
“Tanti auguri” is a phrase that means “many wishes” in Italian, it is also an informal way of wishing someone a happy birthday, it’s also commonly used to say Merry Christmas.
Ready to Celebrate in Italian?
Now that you know how to say “happy birthday” in Italian and have a variety of Italian birthday wishes and phrases at your disposal, you’re ready to impress your Italian friends and family. Remember to practice using the phrases and have fun with them! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different terms of endearment or other expressions to make your greetings even more special. Buon compleanno!
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