A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Happy birthday" in Italian
The standard Italian way to wish someone a happy birthday, perfect for any occasion.
Buon compleanno!
bwon kom-pleh-AHN-nohneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this phrase when greeting someone on their birthday. It's appropriate for friends, family, colleagues, and even acquaintances.
Alternatives
- Tanti auguri!More general good wishes, often used for birthdays but also other celebrations.
- Auguri!A shorter, more casual version of 'Tanti auguri!', very common.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'compleanno' with 'completa'
'Compleanno' means birthday; 'completa' means complete (feminine).
Pronouncing 'buon' like 'boo-on'
The 'uo' in 'buon' is a diphthong, like the 'wo' in 'woe'.
A small cultural note
While 'Buon compleanno!' is universal, Italians often follow it up with 'Tanti auguri!' or just 'Auguri!' for extra warmth.
Frequently asked
how to say happy birthday in italian to a friend
Use 'Buon compleanno!' or the more casual 'Auguri!'. You can also add 'Tanti auguri!' for extra good wishes.
Is buon compleanno formal or informal?
'Buon compleanno!' is a neutral phrase that works in most situations. For very close friends, you might use the shorter 'Auguri!'.
what to say after buon compleanno in italian
Italians often say 'Tanti auguri!' (Many wishes!) or simply 'Auguri!' after 'Buon compleanno!' to add emphasis.
How do Italians wish someone a happy birthday?
The most common way to wish someone a happy birthday in Italian is "Buon compleanno." You can also use "Tanti auguri," which means "best wishes."
Is it buon compleanno or Tanti auguri?
Both "Buon compleanno" and "Tanti auguri" are used to say happy birthday in Italian. "Buon compleanno" is a direct translation, while "Tanti auguri" is a more general "best wishes."
What is the correct way to say "Happy Birthday"?
The most direct and common way to say "Happy Birthday" in Italian is "Buon compleanno." "Tanti auguri" is also widely used and understood as a birthday wish.
How do Sicilians say happy birthday?
In Sicily, you will commonly hear "Bon compleanni" or "Auguri." These are regional variations of the standard Italian birthday wishes.
