many happy returns of the day
many happy returns of the day (formulaic expression)
/ˈmɛni ˈhæpi rɪˈtɜrnz əv ðə deɪ/
Meaning
- Used to wish someone a happy birthday, expressing the hope that they will experience many more joyful birthdays in the future.
- Employed as a greeting on birthdays, conveying the desire for the person’s continued happiness and longevity.
- Serves as a salutation, offering the hope that the happy day being celebrated will recur many more times.
Example Sentences
- Many happy returns of the day, John! Hope your birthday is wonderful.
- Wishing you many happy returns of the day as you celebrate another year.
- On her 50th birthday, everyone exclaimed, “Many happy returns of the day!”
- Sending you many happy returns of the day on this special occasion.
- May you have many happy returns of the day and a fantastic year ahead.
Origin and History
The phrase “many happy returns of the day” has been used since the 18th century as a salutation, expressing the hope that the happy day being marked would recur many more times. It is now primarily used on birthdays; prior to the mid-19th century, it was used more generally, at any celebratory or festive event.
Earliest Recorded Use
The earliest attributable use of the phrase was by Lady Newdigate in a letter written in 1789, where she writes:
“I wish you many happy returns of this day.”
Alternative Interpretations
Some interpretations suggest that “returns” in this context refers to the idea of the day returning each year, bringing happiness with it.
Synonyms
- Happy birthday
- Best wishes
- Many more happy birthdays
- Wishing you joy and happiness
Variants
- many happy returns
Conclusion
The phrase “many happy returns of the day” has evolved over centuries, maintaining its essence of conveying heartfelt wishes for recurring happiness on special occasions, particularly birthdays.
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