In German
Herzlichen Glückwunsch!
Meaning: congratulations
Formal or informal? “Herzlichen Glückwunsch!” is warm and works for almost any occasion. “Glückwunsch!” alone is shorter and more casual.
Example sentences
HerzlichenGlückwunschzumGeburtstag!
Congratulations on your birthday!
HerzlichenGlückwunschzurHochzeit!
Congratulations on your wedding!
GlückwunschzudeinerbestandenenPrüfung!
Congratulations on passing your exam!
Grammar note
“Glückwunsch” is a masculine noun, and the reason for congratulating follows “zu”: “zu deiner Prüfung” (on your exam).
Common mistake
“Gute Besserung” means get well soon, not congratulations. Don't mix them up when someone is ill.
Quick check
Which phrase congratulates someone?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
How do you congratulate on a new job?
“Herzlichen Glückwunsch zur neuen Stelle!”.
What do you say to a newly married couple?
“Herzlichen Glückwunsch zur Hochzeit!” or simply “Alles Gute!”.