Parabéns!

You can use it as a standalone exclamation. Just shout Parabéns! when someone shares good news. If you want to be specific, add pelo or pela. For example, Parabéns pelo trabalho! means 'Congrats on the job!' It works perfectly in texts, emails, or face-to-face. You don't need complex grammar to sound natural here.

Use it for birthdays, weddings, and graduations. Use it when a friend gets a promotion. Use it when someone finally finishes a difficult task. It is great for small wins too. Did your friend cook a great meal? Say Parabéns! It shows you are paying attention and care. It’s the verbal equivalent of a high-five.

Don't use it for condolences or sad news. That might seem obvious, but avoid it in sarcastic ways. Sarcastic Parabéns can sound very rude in Portuguese culture. Also, don't use it for 'Good luck' or 'Best wishes' for the future. Use it for things that have already happened or are happening now. It celebrates a result, not a hope.

In Brazil and Portugal, birthdays are a huge deal. The birthday song is actually titled Parabéns a Você. People often clap rhythmically while singing it. It is a very loud and energetic tradition. In some regions, people might pull your ear for every year of age. The word represents the communal joy of the culture. It’s about sharing the spotlight with others.

You will often hear Muitos parabéns! for extra emphasis. In casual texts, Brazilians often write Parabéns pra você. If you are feeling very informal, you might hear Parabéns, cara! (Congrats, man!). For a more formal touch, use Meus parabéns. This adds a layer of sincere respect to your praise.