Spanish Phrase
¿Cuándo es tu cumpleaños?
Meaning
This is the standard way to ask someone for the date of their birth. It uses the verb 'ser' because a birthday is treated as a fixed event or characteristic of a person. The noun 'cumpleaños' is a compound word combining 'cumple' (completes) and 'años' (years).
When to use
Use this phrase in social situations when getting to know someone or when planning a party. It is friendly and suitable for most casual to semi-formal conversations.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Cuándoestucumpleaños?
Cuándo
This is an interrogative word meaning 'when'. It always carries an accent mark when used in a question.
Ser (es)
The verb 'ser' is used for time, dates, and permanent identity. Here it links the person to their specific birth date.
Cumpleaños
This is a masculine noun that is the same in both singular and plural forms.
🗨In Conversation
¿Cuándo es tu cumpleaños?
When is your birthday?
Es el diez de agosto. ¿Y el tuyo?
It's August 10th. And yours?
✕Common Mistakes
¿Cuándo está tu cumpleaños?
Always use the verb 'ser' (es) for dates and events, never 'estar'.
¿Cuándo es tu cumpleaño?
The word 'cumpleaños' is always plural in form, even when referring to a single birthday.
↔Alternatives
¿Qué día es tu cumple?
What day is your b-day?
¿En qué fecha naciste?
On what date were you born?
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, birthdays are big family events. In Mexico, instead of 'Happy Birthday', people often sing 'Las Mañanitas'. Also, don't be surprised if the birthday person is expected to pay for a round of drinks for friends in some regions!