How to Say ‘Congratulations’ in Japanese
おめでとう
o medetou
[o meh-deh-tOH]
💬 Usage Tip: おめでとう is used for congratulations in general, not just birthdays. You can swap in other occasions too, like ご結婚おめでとう (Congratulations on your marriage).
Phrase Breakdown
お
o
[o]
congratulation
Expression of praise for an achievement or good wishes.
誕生日おめでとう。
Happy birthday.
めでとう
medetou
[meh-deh-tOH]
congratulations
Used to express good wishes or praise.
卒業おめでとう。
Congratulations on graduating.
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