Meaning
Expresses joy and praise for someone's achievement.
Cultural Background
In Portugal, it is common to give two kisses (one on each cheek) while saying 'Muitos parabéns'. The birthday person usually provides the cake for others. Brazilians are very enthusiastic. The 'Parabéns' song is often accompanied by a rhythmic clap called 'batendo palmas'. The first slice of cake is traditionally given to the most important person in the birthday person's life. Celebrations are often large communal events with lots of food and music. 'Muitos parabéns' is said with great warmth and often followed by 'Muitas felicidades'. Similar to other Lusophone countries, but often includes traditional songs alongside the standard Portuguese 'Parabéns' song.
The 'S' Rule
Always remember the 's' at the end. 'Parabéns' is never singular in this context.
Don't be early
In Portugal, some people find it slightly awkward to receive birthday wishes before the actual day.
Meaning
Expresses joy and praise for someone's achievement.
The 'S' Rule
Always remember the 's' at the end. 'Parabéns' is never singular in this context.
Don't be early
In Portugal, some people find it slightly awkward to receive birthday wishes before the actual day.
Agreement
Never say 'Muito parabéns'. It's like saying 'Many congratulation'—it sounds unfinished.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of 'muito' to match 'parabéns'.
_______ parabéns pelo teu aniversário!
Since 'parabéns' is a masculine plural noun, the adjective must be 'muitos'.
Match the situation to the best use of the phrase.
Your friend just told you they are getting married.
A wedding is a major achievement/milestone that requires 'parabéns'.
Complete the dialogue.
Ana: 'Passei no meu exame!' Tu: '_________________!'
When someone passes an exam, you congratulate them.
Which preposition is used to say 'Congratulations ON your birthday'?
Muitos parabéns ____ seu aniversário.
'Pelo' is the contraction of 'por' (for/on account of) and 'o' (the).
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
When to say Muitos Parabéns!
Birthdays
- • Family
- • Friends
- • Colleagues
Success
- • Exams
- • Sports
- • Promotions
Life Events
- • Weddings
- • New Baby
- • New House
Practice Bank
4 exercises_______ parabéns pelo teu aniversário!
Since 'parabéns' is a masculine plural noun, the adjective must be 'muitos'.
Your friend just told you they are getting married.
A wedding is a major achievement/milestone that requires 'parabéns'.
Ana: 'Passei no meu exame!' Tu: '_________________!'
When someone passes an exam, you congratulate them.
Muitos parabéns ____ seu aniversário.
'Pelo' is the contraction of 'por' (for/on account of) and 'o' (the).
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsYes, 'Parabéns' alone is very common and perfectly natural, especially in Brazil.
Yes, it is the standard way to congratulate a couple on their wedding day.
'Parabéns' is an exclamation of praise; 'Feliz aniversário' is a wish for a happy day. Both are used for birthdays.
Simply say 'Muito obrigado' (male) or 'Muito obrigada' (female).
It is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
It follows the pattern of many Romance language greetings (like 'gracias' or 'felicidades') that use the plural for emphasis.
No, use 'Feliz Natal' for Christmas.
It means 'Many years of life' and is a common follow-up to 'Muitos parabéns' on birthdays.
Use 'por' (pelo/pela) for the reason, and 'para' for the recipient (e.g., 'Parabéns para ti').
Yes, to celebrate a successful deal or a promotion.
P-A-R-A-B-É-N-S. Don't forget the acute accent on the 'e'.
In Brazil, you might hear 'Parabéns, fera!' or 'Mandou bem!'.
Related Phrases
Feliz aniversário
synonymHappy Birthday
Muitas felicidades
similarMuch happiness
Felicitações
formalCongratulations
Bom trabalho
specialized formGood job
Parabéns pra você
builds onHappy birthday to you
