If you’re coming across this article – chances are, it’s either Mother’s Day or Father’s Day. And you want to learn the Japanese phrases for these holidays. You know, why don’t you buy a present instead? Ah, I won’t judge you.
So, here are the Top 10 words and phrases you’ll need for these holidays. You will learn…
- How to say Happy Mother’s Day & Happy Father’s Day in Japanese.
- The writing – or how to write these messages.
- The pronunciation – how to say these out loud.
- And other unique Japanese messages that ONLY native speakers use.
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Alright, here’s how you wish your parents a nice holiday.
1. Father’s Day
- 父の日
- Chichi no hi
2. Happy Fathers Day in Japanese
This is the translated way to say Happy Fathers Day in Japanese. The truth is, this isn’t used much by Japanese. It’s a direct translation. It carries little meaning. It’s like YOU telling me “happy birthday” and I’m just like… “well, gee, thanks for that phrase. Got a present, at least?” Now, if you said something like “I hope your year will be successful and you’re a great person,” that’d be more meaningful, huh?
- 父の日おめでとうございます
- Chichi no hi omedetou gozaimasu.
3. Dad, thank you for everything.
This is the most commonly used phrase among native Japanese speakers. Instead of telling a father a pointless… “hey, dad, happy father’s day!” you’re actually thanking him. For everything. A bit more meaningful, eh?
- お父さん、いつもありがとう。
- Otousan, itsumo arigatou.
Or simpler, you can try…
- お父さん、ありがとう。
- Otousan, arigatou.
4. Mother’s Day in Japanese
- 母の日
- haha no hi
5. Happy Mother’s Day in Japanese
Surprise, junkie!
There’s no “direct” way to say “Happy Mother’s Day” in Japanese. Why? Again, such a phrase is meaningless and best left on a gift card. However, I won’t betray your trust.
- お母さん、母の日おめでとう 。
- Okaasan, haha no hi omedetou
There are better phrases you can use.
6. Mother, Thank you for everything
Similar to the Father’s day phrase above. Here, you’re thanking your mom for all that she does and for caring for you. This is a natural Japanese phrase to use.
- お母さん、いつもありがとう。
- Okaasan itsumo arigatou.
You don’t use “Haha” because it’s too casual. For your own mother, you use “Okaasan.”
7. Take care of your health and live long.
At the end of the day, what’s important? Health and life! So, these are some nice things to wish to your parents. That’s right. This is a message you can use for your mom and your dad. Mother’s day OR Father’s day.
- 元気でいつまでも長生きしてね。
- Genki de itsumademo nagaiki shite ne.
8. I love you mom.
Well, you need to know this one.
- お母さん大好きだよ。
- Okaasan daisuki da yo.
9. I’m always grateful.
You can use this for your mom and your dad. And you can couple this with another message. Basically, just a natural way to express your gratitude.
- いつも感謝しています。
- Itsumo kansha shiteimasu.
10. Father, please rest well!
Japanese men work a lot. And drink. But mostly, they work a lot. So on Father’s day, a lot of messages are thanking them for their work, for supporting their family, and of course asking them to rest. Like this one.
- お父さん、たまにはゆっくり休んでね!
- Otousan, tamani ha yukkuri yasunde ne!
And that’s it!
What do you think? Are there any phrases you want to see up here?
Make sure to wish your dad a happy fathers day in Japanese and your mom a happy mothers day!
Oh, and be sure to leave a comment!
– The Main Junkie!
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