2006-12-03 03:49:15 · 7 answers · asked by Purple Princess 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Other - Society & Culture
I think they were talking about returning the gifts they didn't like, to get something they would be happy with. (sorry, I'm in a goofy mood this morning !) lol
2006-12-03 03:51:15 · answer #1 · answered by Big Bear 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well... you asked a two part question I can answer the first part. Firstly a lot of people misuse the term. It is a reply to something positive said to you. For instance, 'Happy New Year!' and the reply is 'and many happy returns' You are saying I return your thought/gesture and may it return to you many times over.
The origin sounds very Asian Indian to me or moorish. Quite possibly some overly verbose person who wanted to make "Same to you" sound fancier than usual lol!
Good LUCK!
2006-12-03 03:53:37 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You should attempt to translate it literally. Many Happy Return"
is basically used to wish Good Luck. Like saying Have good profit in your coming life.
I cannot tell however the origin of the phrase.
Curious98
2006-12-03 04:00:31 · answer #3 · answered by curious98 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
this is because when someone says many happy returns they have not quite finished the sentence. they should say "many happy returns of the day", meaning that they hope you are happy this birthday, and that your happiness (as large as it was on your birthday) will return many more times in the year
2006-12-03 03:52:21 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Meaning return to your birthday every year. Meaning don't die too young. Live a long full life, and be happy!
2006-12-03 03:50:31 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Apparently, its because of the Stone masons
2006-12-03 03:50:33 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
good question but don't know the answer
2006-12-03 03:51:00 · answer #7 · answered by mickeymousedude 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋