Translation guide
A formal or literary expression of congratulations or good wishes. In Japanese, this is typically expressed through set congratulatory phrases, often used in speeches, letters, or formal announcements.
Expressing congratulations in a formal or ceremonial context, such as speeches, letters, or official announcements.
A very polite and formal way to say 'I offer my congratulations.' Suitable for speeches, formal letters, or addressing superiors.
ご結婚、お祝い申し上げます。
I offer my heartfelt congratulations on your marriage.
A highly formal expression meaning 'I rejoice with you.' Often used in written congratulations or very formal speeches.
ご昇進、心よりお慶び申し上げます。
I sincerely congratulate you on your promotion.
The standard polite 'congratulations.' While less formal than the above, it is widely used in semi-formal settings and everyday polite speech.
ご卒業おめでとうございます。
Congratulations on your graduation.
Offering felicitations specifically for the New Year or seasonal occasions, often in written form.
A formal New Year's greeting meaning 'I offer my felicitations for the New Year.' Used in letters or formal greetings.
新年のお慶びを申し上げます。本年もよろしくお願いいたします。
I offer my felicitations for the New Year. I look forward to your continued favor this year.
A concise New Year's greeting used on cards or in written messages, meaning 'Happy New Year.' Very common on nengajō (New Year's postcards).
賀正
Happy New Year (written on a card).
Expressing good wishes in a literary, poetic, or old-fashioned style, often found in translations or classical contexts.
The English word 'felicitations' is very formal and somewhat dated. In Japanese, using overly formal congratulatory phrases in casual conversation can sound stiff or sarcastic. For everyday congratulations, use おめでとう (casual) or おめでとうございます (polite).
誕生日おめでとう！
Happy birthday! (casual)