誕生日 — meaning in English: birthday

tanjōbi · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for birthday

コイン

koin

誕生日

tanjōbi

行為

koui

ジャケット

jaketto

ポール

pōru

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 誕生日 (tanjōbi) during celebrations and greetings, such as at birthday parties or when wishing someone a happy birthday. It is common to hear this word in both family gatherings and among friends, making it a staple in casual conversation.

Synonyms & nuances

Another word for birthday in Japanese is 誕辰 (tanjin), but this term is more formal and less commonly used in everyday conversation. You would choose 誕生日 (tanjōbi) when referring to casual or familial situations, making it the preferred term in most contexts.

Culture

Interestingly, the concept of celebrating birthdays in Japan has roots that trace back to ancient customs, where the ages were counted differently. Today, the celebration often involves not just cake and gifts, but also unique traditions like the 'shichi-go-san' festival, which celebrates children’s growth on their third, fifth, and seventh birthdays, reflecting the cultural value placed on childhood milestones.

FAQ

Q.How do you say 'happy birthday' in Japanese?

You say 'お誕生日おめでとう' (otanjōbi omedetō) to wish someone a happy birthday. It’s a phrase you can use in both formal and informal settings.

Q.What is a common birthday tradition in Japan?

One popular tradition is to celebrate with a cake, often decorated with strawberries and whipped cream. Many families also enjoy a special dinner together or go out to eat as part of the celebration.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using the word 誕生日?

A common mistake is to forget the honorific prefix 'お' (o) when wishing someone a happy birthday, which adds politeness to the greeting, making it culturally appropriate.

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