Translation guide
In Japanese, congratulating someone depends on the situation and relationship. The most common expression is おめでとう (omedetou), but it changes with formality. For achievements, おめでとうございます is standard. In formal speeches or letters, set phrases like お祝い申し上げます are used. Be careful: おめでとう is not used for condolences or before an event happens.
Congratulations! (casual)
Congratulations! (polite)
Expressing congratulations in everyday situations, from casual to polite.
Casual way to say 'congratulations'. Used among friends, family, or in informal settings.
Expressing congratulations in very formal contexts such as speeches, formal letters, or ceremonies.
Expressing congratulations for a particular accomplishment or happy event.
Attach the event or achievement before おめでとう. Use おめでとう for casual, おめでとうございます for polite.
Expressing congratulations in written form, from casual to formal.
How to respond when someone congratulates you.
Standard polite response to congratulations, meaning 'thank you'.
おめでとう is only for happy occasions. For condolences, use expressions like お悔やみ申し上げます (おくやみもうしあげます) for funerals or お大事に (おだいじに) for illness.
My condolences.
In Japanese culture, it's considered bad luck to congratulate someone before an event has successfully occurred. For example, don't say before an exam or a wedding; instead, say () for encouragement.
Congratulations on passing the exam.
Polite form of おめでとう. Use with superiors, strangers, or in formal situations.
Congratulations on your marriage.
Congratulations on your promotion.
I would like to offer my heartfelt congratulations on your recent promotion.
Another very formal congratulatory phrase, similar to お祝い申し上げます.
Congratulations on reaching such a venerable age.
Congratulations on graduating.
Congratulations on your new job.
Casual way to express happiness for someone's good news. Implies 'I'm glad for you' and can serve as a light congratulation.
I heard you passed the exam? That's great!
Used in casual written messages like texts or social media comments.
Congratulations on your marriage! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness.
Polite written form, suitable for emails or cards to acquaintances or superiors.
Congratulations on the birth of your child. Wishing health to both mother and baby.
A: Congratulations on passing! B: Thank you.
Casual 'thanks' in response to congratulations among friends.
A: Happy birthday! B: Thanks!