My Experience With Belated Birthday Wishes
It was my best friend’s birthday last week, and I completely forgot about it. It wasn’t until I saw her Facebook post thanking everyone for their birthday wishes that I realized my mistake. Feeling guilty, I immediately messaged her and wished her a belated happy birthday. But then I started to wonder, is it correct to say “happy belated birthday” or “belated happy birthday”? I decided to do some research and find out.
Which Is Correct: Happy Belated Birthday or Belated Happy Birthday?
The short answer is both are correct. However, the order in which you say it can depend on the context and personal preference. “Happy belated birthday” is more commonly used, but “belated happy birthday” can also be used.
Context
If you are sending a belated birthday card or message, it is more common to say “happy belated birthday.” This is because the focus is on the birthday and the fact that it has already passed. Saying “belated happy birthday” could imply that the focus is on the happiness of the birthday instead of the fact that it is late.
However, if you are saying it in person or over the phone, saying “belated happy birthday” is perfectly acceptable. This is because the focus is on the happiness and well wishes you are sending to the person, and the fact that it is late is secondary.
Step-by-Step Guide for Current Trends on Belated Birthday Wishes
- Start with acknowledging that you missed their birthday
- Apologize for missing their birthday
- Wish them a happy belated birthday or belated happy birthday
- Add a personal message or joke to show you care
- End with another apology and a promise to not forget next year
Top 10 Tips and Ideas on Belated Birthday Wishes
- Send a belated birthday card or message as soon as you remember
- Add a personal touch, like a favorite quote or inside joke
- Offer to take them out for a belated birthday celebration
- Send a belated birthday gift to show you care
- Make a donation to their favorite charity in honor of their birthday
- Write a heartfelt apology and explanation for why you missed their birthday
- Send a funny belated birthday meme or gif to lighten the mood
- Organize a surprise belated birthday party with their friends and family
- Call or video chat with them to wish them a happy belated birthday
- Promise to make up for it by doing something special for them
Pros and Cons of Saying Happy Belated Birthday or Belated Happy Birthday
Pros
- Shows that you remembered their birthday, even if it was late
- Expresses your well wishes and happiness for them
- Can be a conversation starter and lead to catching up
Cons
- May cause hurt feelings or disappointment in the person
- Can come across as insincere or lazy if not accompanied by a personal message or gesture
- May feel awkward or uncomfortable for both parties involved
My Personal Review and Suggestion on Belated Birthday Wishes
After doing my research and reflecting on my own experience, I believe that the most important aspect of belated birthday wishes is the sincerity and personal touch that accompanies it. Whether you say “happy belated birthday” or “belated happy birthday” is less important than the effort you put into showing that you care. Sending a heartfelt apology, a thoughtful message, or a small gesture can go a long way in making up for missing their special day.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Is it okay to not acknowledge a belated birthday?
A: It is always better to acknowledge a belated birthday than to not say anything at all. Even if it is a simple apology and message, it shows that you remembered and care.
Q: What if I don’t have a personal relationship with the person, but still want to send a belated birthday message?
A: A simple “happy belated birthday” or “belated happy birthday” message is still appropriate, but adding a personal touch like a favorite quote or fun fact can make it more meaningful.
Q: What if I always forget people’s birthdays?
A: Consider setting reminders on your phone or calendar, or making a list of important dates to reference. It is also okay to admit your forgetfulness and send a belated message with an apology and promise to do better next time.