Ways to Say It
A few common variations add warmth or formality to the standard phrase.
生日快乐Happy birthday — the standard, universal phrase
祝你生日快乐I wish you a happy birthday — a fuller, slightly warmer version
祝您生日快乐I wish you a happy birthday — formal, using the respectful "您"
生日快乐，天天开心Happy birthday, may you be happy every day — a common extended wish
祝你健康快乐，万事如意Wishing you health, happiness, and success in everything
Example Messages
Full example messages you can send as-is or adapt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "Shēngrì kuàilè" used the same way across all Chinese-speaking regions?
The phrase and characters are understood across Mandarin-speaking regions, though pronunciation and some surrounding vocabulary can vary by region and dialect.
What's the difference between 你 (nǐ) and 您 (nín)?
"Nǐ" is the standard, informal "you," while "nín" is a respectful form used with elders, superiors, or people you want to address formally.
Is there a traditional Chinese birthday song?
The English "Happy Birthday to You" melody is widely used in China too, often sung with "Zhù nǐ shēngrì kuàilè" as the lyrics.