How to say happy birthday in French.
The phrases French speakers actually use — not a dictionary line — with what each means and who it is for, plus full messages by a native speaker you can send as a card in French in a minute.
“Joyeux anniversaire !” means “Happy birthday!” and is what French speakers say. “Bon anniversaire !” (“Good birthday!”) is the warmer version. The standard wish. Note the space before the exclamation mark — French does that.
The French phrases, and when each one fits
French uses 'tu' with family and friends and 'vous' with colleagues you are not close to, clients and anyone older you do not know well. Many workplaces are 'tu' between peers and 'vous' upwards — when in doubt, 'vous' is never rude.
- Joyeux anniversaire ! — “Happy birthday!”. The standard wish. Note the space before the exclamation mark — French does that.
- Bon anniversaire ! — “Good birthday!”. Equally common, a touch more casual.
- Je te souhaite une merveilleuse journée. — “I wish you a wonderful day.”. When the day itself is the point.
- Plein de bonheur pour cette nouvelle année. — “Lots of happiness for this new year (of life).”. The 'year ahead' wish the French like on cards.
- Que tous tes vœux se réalisent. — “May all your wishes come true.”. Warm and a little formal — lovely for a parent.
- À ta santé ! — “To your health!”. A toast line, playful among friends.
Birthday messages in French, written for the person
Full messages by a native speaker — pick the person and send one as a card, in their language.
Three French messages to start from
Joyeux anniversaire, Tata ! Tu as toujours été dans mon camp, même quand j'avais tort. Passe une journée aussi généreuse que toi.
Hé, mon acolyte préférée ! Joyeux anniv', crapule — encore une année à faire les folles ensemble. Je n'en raterais pas une seconde.
Joyeux anniversaire ! Je vous souhaite la santé, la réussite, et une journée où rien ne demande votre validation.
Questions people ask
Can I mix English and French in one card?
Yes — and natives find it charming. Open with the French phrase, write your real message in English, and sign off in French (Je t'embrasse, or Bisous,). The effort is the point.
How do I sign off a French card?
Je t'embrasse, · Bisous, · Avec toute mon affection, · Amicalement, · Bien à vous, — from warmest to most neutral. Family and close friends get the first two; colleagues the last.
Will the card itself be in French?
Yes. Our Français builder is a full translation, with example messages written by native speakers, and your recipient opens the card in French.
Birthday wishes in other languages
Send it in French — free.
A real card, in their language, in about a minute. No account, no watermark.