Congratulations & Celebrations
Use these phrases to congratulate people on their achievements, wish them a happy birthday, or celebrate special events together.
Key Phrases
Happy birthday! I hope you have a wonderful day.
neutralHappy birthday! Have a great one!
casualCommonly used with friends and close colleagues.
Congratulations on the new job!
neutralCongrats! You really deserve it.
casualShort for 'congratulations'; very common in informal speech.
Well done on passing your exams!
neutralUK — British speakers usually say 'exams' for big school assessments.
Awesome job passing your test!
casualUS — Americans often say 'test' for school subjects and driving.
I was very pleased to hear about your results.
politeGood for professional emails or formal workplace settings.
We are so happy for you both.
neutralOften used for weddings or engagements.
Best wishes for your future together.
politeOften written inside wedding cards.
Cheers!
casualSaid before drinking. In the UK, people also use 'cheers' to mean 'thank you'.
Let's raise a glass to the happy couple.
politeUsed when speaking to a group at a wedding or formal dinner.
Are you doing anything special to celebrate?
neutralAny big plans for your birthday?
casualA friendly way to ask about upcoming parties or dinners.
I brought you a little something.
casualA modest and polite way to give someone a gift.
This is just a small gift for you.
neutralThank you so much, you didn't have to do this!
casualA polite way to act surprised when someone hands you a present.