Daughter Birthday Wishes: Heartfelt, Sweet, Funny, and Meaningful Messages

daughter birthday wishes

A daughter’s birthday is a beautiful reminder of how much joy, love, and meaning she brings into your life. Whether she’s your little girl, a growing teenager, or an independent adult, you want your birthday message to make her feel special and deeply loved.

Sometimes, though, finding the right words isn’t easy. You might want to express your pride, share a little wisdom, make her laugh, or remind her that she’ll always have a special place in your heart.

These daughter birthday wishes include heartfelt messages, short greetings, funny birthday quotes, emotional words from parents, and special wishes for daughters of different ages. Choose a message that fits your relationship, or personalize one with a favorite memory to make her birthday even more meaningful.

Heartfelt Birthday Wishes for Daughter

When you want your daughter to know how much she means to you, a heartfelt birthday message is a wonderful choice. These wishes express love, gratitude, pride, and hope for her future.

  • Happy birthday to my beautiful daughter! You have filled my life with more love and happiness than I ever imagined possible.
  • Every year, I feel more grateful for the wonderful person you are becoming. May your birthday bring you countless reasons to smile.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! Never forget that you are loved for exactly who you are, not just for what you achieve.
  • Watching you grow into your own person has been one of the greatest joys of my life. I hope this year brings you peace, confidence, and beautiful opportunities.
  • To my precious daughter, may you always find kindness in the world, strength within yourself, and love wherever life takes you.
  • Happy birthday to the girl who made my life brighter simply by being in it. You will always hold a special place in my heart.
  • I hope your birthday reminds you how many lives you touch and how much happiness you bring to the people around you.
  • No matter how old you become, I will always be cheering for you. May this new chapter bring you closer to the life you dream of.
  • Happy birthday, my darling daughter! I wish you the courage to follow your heart and the wisdom to recognize your own worth.
  • You are one of my life’s greatest blessings. May your birthday begin a year filled with meaningful memories, genuine friendships, and endless possibilities.

Emotional Birthday Wishes for Daughter From Mom and Dad

Some birthdays bring a flood of memories, from the first time you held your daughter to the person she is today. These emotional birthday messages help parents express feelings that are sometimes difficult to put into words.

  • Happy birthday, my daughter. From the moment you came into my life, you gave my heart a reason to love in a completely new way.
  • Every birthday reminds me how quickly time passes. I wish I could hold on to every little moment, but I’m so proud of the person you have become.
  • You may grow older and build a life of your own, but you will never outgrow the love I have for you.
  • Happy birthday to my precious girl! If I could give you one gift for life, it would be the ability to see yourself through my eyes.
  • Some of my happiest memories begin with you. Thank you for bringing so much meaning, laughter, and love into my life.
  • No matter how difficult life becomes, remember that you never have to face everything alone. Your family will always be here for you.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart. I hope life treats your gentle heart kindly and gives you the strength to overcome every challenge.
  • Seeing you become independent fills me with pride, even when I miss the little girl who once needed me for everything.
  • You have taught me that a parent’s love keeps growing with every passing year. Today, I celebrate not only your birthday but also the joy of being your parent.
  • My daughter, I cannot promise that life will always be easy, but I promise that you will always have someone who believes in you and loves you unconditionally.

Short Birthday Wishes for Daughter

A short birthday message can express plenty of love without needing a long paragraph. These simple wishes work well for text messages, WhatsApp, birthday cards, and social media captions.

  • Happy birthday, my sweet daughter! You make every day brighter.
  • Wishing my beautiful girl a birthday full of love and laughter.
  • Happy birthday to my forever favorite girl!
  • Keep shining, sweetheart. The world is lucky to have you.
  • Happy birthday, daughter! Always believe in yourself.
  • To my precious girl, may happiness follow you everywhere.
  • Happy birthday! You will always be my greatest blessing.
  • Sending you the biggest hugs on your special day.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! Stay kind, brave, and happy.
  • Celebrating you today and loving you every single day.

Funny Birthday Wishes for Daughter

If your daughter loves jokes and playful messages, make her birthday greeting fun. These funny wishes bring a little humor to the celebration while keeping the love at the center.

  • Happy birthday, daughter! You can blame me for your good looks and your questionable sense of humor.
  • Congratulations on getting older! Don’t worry, you’re still young enough to borrow money from your parents.
  • Happy birthday to the girl who stole my heart, my snacks, and occasionally my patience!
  • You may be growing up, but you’ll always be the little girl who thought bedtime was a personal insult.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! I hope your cake is huge, your presents are amazing, and your chores mysteriously disappear.
  • Another year older and somehow still convinced that you know everything. I admire your confidence!
  • Happy birthday to my daughter, my pride, and the reason I finally understand why my parents looked so tired.
  • You’re officially another year more mature. Let’s celebrate before anyone notices the evidence is missing.
  • Happy birthday, girl! May your Wi-Fi stay strong, your phone battery last forever, and your parents never ask you to clean your room.
  • Growing up is optional when you’re with your parents. Happy birthday to the girl who will always be our baby, even when she insists otherwise!

Birthday Wishes for a Little Daughter

A little girl’s birthday is full of excitement, colorful decorations, sweet treats, and unforgettable family moments. These cheerful birthday wishes are perfect for a young daughter who makes every day feel like an adventure.

  • Happy birthday to my little princess! May your day be filled with balloons, cake, toys, and all your favorite things.
  • My sweet girl, keep laughing loudly, dreaming big, and discovering the wonderful world around you.
  • Happy birthday, sunshine! You make our home happier with your giggles, hugs, and beautiful little smile.
  • To my adorable daughter, may your birthday be as colorful as your imagination and as sweet as your favorite candy.
  • Happy birthday, little star! Keep being curious, kind, playful, and wonderfully yourself.
  • My precious girl, I hope your special day brings magical surprises and enough cake to make you smile all day.
  • Happy birthday to our tiny bundle of happiness! You make even the simplest moments feel extraordinary.
  • May your childhood be filled with loving hugs, exciting adventures, bedtime stories, and beautiful memories.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! Never stop asking questions, exploring new things, and sharing your big, beautiful smile.
  • To my little angel, you are loved more than all the stars in the sky. Have the happiest birthday ever!

Birthday Wishes for a Teenage Daughter

The teenage years bring new interests, bigger dreams, changing friendships, and important lessons about independence. A thoughtful birthday message can remind your daughter that you trust her, appreciate her individuality, and support her growth.

  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! Keep discovering who you are and never feel pressured to become someone you’re not.
  • I’m proud of the young woman you’re becoming. May this year bring you confidence, wonderful friendships, and exciting opportunities.
  • Happy birthday to my amazing daughter! Trust your abilities, learn from mistakes, and remember that growth takes time.
  • Your dreams deserve a chance, and your voice deserves to be heard. Keep believing in yourself, even when things get difficult.
  • Happy birthday, girl! Enjoy every moment of being young while building habits and memories you’ll appreciate for years.
  • May your new year bring adventures that inspire you, friendships that support you, and experiences that help you grow.
  • Happy birthday to a daughter with a bright future and a personality all her own. Never be afraid to stand out.
  • You don’t have to have your entire life figured out today. Take your time, stay curious, and keep moving forward.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! I hope you always feel comfortable talking to me, asking questions, and sharing whatever is on your mind.
  • Watching you become more independent is a beautiful experience. Remember that you can chase your dreams and still count on my love and guidance.

Birthday Wishes for an Adult Daughter

When your daughter becomes an adult, your relationship often changes in wonderful ways. You may see her pursuing a career, building relationships, raising a family, or creating a life that reflects her own choices. These birthday wishes celebrate her independence while reminding her that your love remains constant.

  • Happy birthday to my wonderful daughter! I admire the life you’re building and the strength you show along the way.
  • I’m proud of your achievements, but I’m even prouder of your kindness, honesty, and the way you treat others.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! May this year bring professional growth, meaningful relationships, and time to enjoy the things you love.
  • No matter how independent you become, you will always have a home in my heart. I hope your birthday brings you the happiness you deserve.
  • Watching you build your own future fills me with gratitude. Keep trusting your judgment and choosing what makes your life meaningful.
  • Happy birthday to an incredible daughter! May you find success without losing your peace and ambition without forgetting to enjoy life.
  • I hope this new chapter gives you the courage to make bold choices and the wisdom to protect what matters most.
  • Happy birthday! May your hard work open new doors, your friendships bring comfort, and your everyday moments offer genuine joy.
  • You have grown into someone I respect, admire, and love deeply. I’m grateful that I get to watch your journey unfold.
  • Happy birthday, my dear daughter. May you always feel free to create your own path while knowing that my support is never far away.
SEE ALSO:  Birthday Wishes for Nephew: Heartfelt, Funny, Short, and Meaningful Messages

Inspirational Birthday Wishes for Daughter

A birthday is a natural time to encourage your daughter to believe in herself and look forward to what lies ahead. These inspirational messages focus on courage, personal growth, resilience, and pursuing meaningful goals.

  • Happy birthday, daughter! Never let fear convince you that you’re incapable of achieving something important to you.
  • Your future isn’t limited by yesterday’s mistakes. Learn from them, believe in your abilities, and keep moving forward.
  • May this year give you the courage to take new chances and the patience to appreciate every step of your journey.
  • Happy birthday to my ambitious girl! Keep working toward your goals while remembering that your happiness matters just as much as your success.
  • You don’t need to follow someone else’s timeline. Build a life that feels right for you, one decision at a time.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! Let every challenge teach you something valuable and every success remind you of what you can accomplish.
  • Believe in your voice, protect your values, and surround yourself with people who encourage your growth.
  • May your birthday mark the beginning of a year filled with bold ideas, rewarding experiences, and confidence in your own choices.
  • You are stronger than you sometimes realize and more capable than your doubts suggest. Keep giving yourself a chance.
  • Happy birthday, daughter! I hope you create a future that makes you proud, not just one that impresses other people.

Cute Birthday Wishes for Daughter

Sometimes a birthday message should simply feel sweet and affectionate. These cute wishes are ideal for greeting cards, family group chats, photo captions, and messages that make your daughter smile.

  • Happy birthday to my little sunshine, who somehow makes even an ordinary Tuesday feel special.
  • You’re my favorite reason to smile and one of the sweetest parts of my life. Have the loveliest birthday!
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! If hugs could be birthday presents, you’d receive a million from me today.
  • To my beautiful girl, may your day include your favorite treats, happy surprises, and plenty of reasons to giggle.
  • Happy birthday to the daughter who makes my heart feel full with just one smile.
  • You’re a little bit of sweetness, a lot of personality, and a whole world of love. Happy birthday!
  • Happy birthday, my darling! I hope today feels as warm and wonderful as your biggest hug.
  • To my favorite girl, may your birthday be filled with sparkles, sweet memories, and everything that makes you happy.
  • Happy birthday, pumpkin! Keep being your adorable, funny, and wonderfully unique self.
  • Life gave me many beautiful gifts, but being your parent will always be one of my favorites. Happy birthday!

Birthday Wishes for Daughter From Mom

A mother’s birthday message can reflect the special connection she shares with her daughter. These wishes celebrate affection, encouragement, shared experiences, and the joy of watching a daughter grow.

  • Happy birthday, my darling daughter! Being your mom is a part of my life that I treasure more than words can explain.
  • I hope you always know that you can come to me for comfort, advice, a hug, or simply someone who listens.
  • Happy birthday to my beautiful girl! You have your own dreams and your own way of doing things, and I love seeing you discover both.
  • From your first little steps to the big decisions you make today, I’ve been grateful to watch your journey unfold.
  • My daughter, I hope you treat yourself with the same kindness you show the people you love. You deserve that care, too.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! May your life include people who respect you, opportunities that excite you, and moments that bring you peace.
  • You have given me countless reasons to smile, and I hope your birthday gives you just as many.
  • No matter where life takes you, my love will always be a place where you can feel safe and accepted.
  • Happy birthday, my girl! Keep your beautiful heart, stand up for yourself, and never underestimate your abilities.
  • I feel so lucky to be your mom. May this year bring you closer to the life you want and the happiness you deserve.

Birthday Wishes for Daughter From Dad

A father’s birthday message can offer reassurance, encouragement, humor, and pride. These wishes are suitable for daughters of any age and reflect a father’s enduring love and support.

  • Happy birthday, princess! You’ll always have a special place in my heart, no matter how grown-up you become.
  • I’m proud of the person you are and the way you keep learning, growing, and finding your own direction.
  • Happy birthday, daughter! May you always have the courage to speak up, the confidence to follow your dreams, and the wisdom to choose good people.
  • From the day you entered my life, you gave me a reason to become a better man. I’m grateful for every year I get to be your dad.
  • My beautiful daughter, never measure your worth by someone else’s opinion. You are valuable simply because you’re you.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! I may not always have the perfect words, but you’ll never have to wonder whether I love you.
  • May your year be filled with opportunities that challenge you, people who respect you, and experiences that help you discover your strengths.
  • Happy birthday to my amazing girl! Remember that asking for help is a sign of wisdom, not weakness.
  • I hope you build a life that makes you happy and never feel you have to shrink yourself to fit someone else’s expectations.
  • Being your dad is a privilege I’ll always treasure. Have a wonderful birthday, and remember that I’ll be cheering for you every step of the way.

Birthday Wishes for an Estranged or Distant Daughter

Sometimes a daughter and parent live far apart or have a complicated relationship. A birthday message can acknowledge the occasion without creating pressure, demanding a response, or ignoring past difficulties.

  • Happy birthday, my daughter. I’m thinking of you today and sincerely wishing you peace, health, and happiness.
  • I hope your birthday brings you a little joy and that the year ahead treats you kindly.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart. I respect your space and want you to know that I wish you well.
  • Sending warm birthday wishes your way. I hope you’re surrounded by people who care about you and make you feel appreciated.
  • Happy birthday, daughter. Whatever distance exists between us, I genuinely hope life brings you good things.
  • I’m thinking of you on your birthday and wishing you a peaceful day filled with moments that make you smile.
  • Happy birthday. I hope the year ahead gives you opportunities to grow, reasons to feel hopeful, and plenty of good memories.
  • You don’t need to respond to this message. I simply wanted to wish you a happy birthday and let you know I’m thinking of you.
  • Happy birthday, my daughter. I hope you’re doing well and that today brings you the kind of happiness that feels right for you.
  • Wishing you a beautiful birthday and a year filled with health, peace, and meaningful experiences. I hope life is kind to you.

Birthday Wishes for a Daughter Living Far Away

When your daughter lives in another city or country, birthdays can feel different without the usual family traditions. A thoughtful message can help her feel remembered, supported, and loved from a distance.

  • Happy birthday, my dear daughter! I wish I could celebrate beside you, but I’m sending you all my love from here.
  • Distance may keep us from sharing your birthday cake, but it can’t lessen how much you mean to me.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! I hope you find time to celebrate, enjoy your favorite things, and feel surrounded by love.
  • Even though we can’t be together today, you’re in my thoughts, and I’m wishing you a wonderful year ahead.
  • Happy birthday to my faraway girl! I hope this new chapter brings exciting adventures and plenty of reasons to come home smiling.
  • Sending you a birthday hug across the miles. I hope you feel proud of how far you’ve come and excited about what’s next.
  • I miss our time together, especially on days like this. Happy birthday, daughter, and know that I’m always rooting for you.
  • May your birthday bring good company, a delicious meal, unexpected surprises, and a reminder that you’re never forgotten.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! Wherever you are in the world, you’ll always be an important part of our family.
  • I can’t wait until we can celebrate together again. Until then, enjoy your day and know how deeply you’re loved.

Birthday Wishes for a Daughter-in-Law

A daughter-in-law can become an important part of the family, bringing new relationships, shared traditions, and special memories. These birthday wishes are warm and respectful without assuming an overly intimate relationship.

  • Happy birthday to a wonderful daughter-in-law! We’re grateful to have you in our family and hope your day is full of happiness.
  • Wishing you a birthday filled with laughter, thoughtful surprises, and all the little things that make you smile.
  • Happy birthday! Your kindness and warmth add something special to our family, and we hope the coming year treats you beautifully.
  • May this new year bring you good health, exciting opportunities, and plenty of time for the things you enjoy most.
  • Happy birthday to an amazing daughter-in-law. It’s a pleasure to celebrate you and the person you are.
  • I hope your birthday gives you a chance to relax, feel appreciated, and enjoy the company of the people you love.
  • Wishing you a year filled with personal growth, meaningful experiences, and many reasons to feel proud of yourself.
  • Happy birthday! Thank you for the happiness you bring to our family. May your day be as lovely as you are.
  • May the coming year open doors to wonderful opportunities and fill your life with peace, laughter, and success.
  • Happy birthday, dear daughter-in-law! We’re wishing you a beautiful celebration and a year filled with blessings and memorable moments.
SEE ALSO:  Unique Birthday Wishes for Daughter to Make Her Feel Truly Special

Birthday Wishes for a Daughter Who Is Also Your Best Friend

As your daughter grows older, your relationship may develop into a friendship built on mutual respect, shared laughter, and honest conversations. These messages celebrate both the parent-child bond and the friendship you’ve come to enjoy.

  • Happy birthday to my daughter and one of my favorite people to talk to. I’m grateful for the friendship we’ve built.
  • You make me laugh, challenge my thinking, and remind me that the best relationships keep growing. Happy birthday, sweetheart!
  • Happy birthday to the girl who knows my stories, tolerates my advice, and still chooses to spend time with me.
  • I’m proud to be your parent and lucky to share so many laughs and conversations with you. Have the best birthday!
  • Happy birthday, daughter! May our coffee dates, long conversations, silly jokes, and shared memories keep coming for years.
  • You’re someone I love deeply and genuinely enjoy being around. I hope your birthday is as fun as our favorite days together.
  • Happy birthday to my daughter, my confidante, and my partner in occasional mischief. Life is better with you in it.
  • Thank you for letting our relationship grow into something that includes both family love and real friendship.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart! I hope your next year brings new adventures, honest conversations, and even more reasons to laugh together.
  • No matter how much our roles change over the years, I’ll always be proud to call you my daughter and grateful to know you as a friend.

Religious Birthday Wishes for Daughter

If faith is important to your family, a religious birthday message can express gratitude, offer a prayer, and wish your daughter guidance and protection in the year ahead.

  • Happy birthday, my daughter! May God guide your decisions, strengthen your faith, and fill your life with peace and joy.
  • I thank God for the blessing of having you in my life. May He protect you and help you grow in wisdom and kindness.
  • Happy birthday, sweetheart. May your heart remain hopeful, your faith stay strong, and your path be filled with goodness.
  • May God bless your new year with good health, supportive people, meaningful opportunities, and countless reasons to be grateful.
  • Happy birthday, my precious daughter! I pray that you always find comfort in your faith during difficult times and gratitude during joyful ones.
  • May God give you courage when life feels uncertain, patience when things take time, and peace in every season.
  • Happy birthday! May your life reflect compassion, honesty, generosity, and the beautiful values that make you who you are.
  • I pray that God protects you wherever you go and surrounds you with people who encourage you to become your best self.
  • Happy birthday, daughter. May you recognize the blessings in your life and find strength through every challenge you face.
  • Thank You, God, for another year of my daughter’s life. May her days be filled with love, wisdom, protection, and happiness.

Birthday Captions for Daughter on Instagram and Facebook

A birthday caption for your daughter should complement your photo while expressing your love and pride. These short messages work well with family pictures, childhood throwbacks, birthday portraits, and celebration posts.

  • Celebrating my favorite girl today and always. Happy birthday, sweetheart!
  • My daughter, my joy, my forever blessing. Happy birthday!
  • Watching you grow is one of life’s greatest privileges.
  • Another year of your beautiful smile and unforgettable personality. Happy birthday!
  • Proud parent, happy heart, and the world’s best daughter.
  • From little giggles to big dreams, every chapter with you is special.
  • Happy birthday to the girl who makes our family brighter.
  • My daughter will always be one of my favorite reasons to celebrate.
  • Growing older, becoming stronger, and shining in your own way. Happy birthday!
  • Today is all about you, my beautiful girl. Keep being wonderfully yourself.

How to Write a Meaningful Birthday Message for Your Daughter

A personal birthday message can feel more meaningful than a generic greeting because it reflects your daughter’s personality and your relationship. You don’t need perfect writing skills. A few sincere sentences are often enough.

Mention Something You Love About Her

Think about a quality that makes your daughter special. You might admire her humor, patience, determination, creativity, or kindness toward others.

For example: “Happy birthday, sweetheart! Your kindness and determination inspire me, and I’m proud of the person you’re becoming.”

Include a Personal Memory

A shared memory can make your message feel more intimate. Mention a family tradition, a funny moment, a milestone, or something you both enjoy.

For example: “Happy birthday, my girl! I’ll always smile when I remember our late-night conversations and the way we laugh at the smallest things.”

Match the Message to Her Age

A young daughter may appreciate a playful greeting, while an adult daughter may value a message that recognizes her independence. Consider her personality rather than relying only on her age.

Express Pride Without Creating Pressure

You can celebrate your daughter’s achievements without making her feel that she must always succeed. Recognize her character, effort, and happiness alongside her accomplishments.

For example: “I’m proud of everything you’ve worked for, but I hope you always remember that you don’t have to achieve anything to earn my love.”

End With a Genuine Wish for Her Future

Choose something meaningful for her current stage of life. You might wish her confidence, supportive friendships, good health, peace, exciting opportunities, or the courage to follow her own path.

A simple message that reflects your real feelings will usually mean more than a long greeting filled with grand expressions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Daughter Birthday Wishes

What is the best birthday wish for a daughter?

A good birthday wish expresses love, appreciation, and hope for your daughter’s happiness. For example: “Happy birthday, my beautiful daughter! I’m proud of the person you are and excited to see all the wonderful things ahead of you. Always remember how deeply you’re loved.”

How do I wish my daughter a happy birthday in a special way?

Mention a quality you admire, include a shared memory, and add a personal wish for her future. You can also write the message inside a card, record a short birthday video, or send it with a favorite photograph.

What is a short and sweet birthday message for my daughter?

“Happy birthday, sweetheart! You make my life brighter, and I’ll always be proud to be your parent. Keep smiling and believing in yourself.”

What should I write in my daughter’s birthday card?

Write a message that reflects your relationship. Tell her what you appreciate about her, remind her that she’s loved, and share a hope for the coming year. A personal memory can make the card even more meaningful.

How do I write an emotional birthday message for my grown daughter?

Acknowledge how much she’s grown while reminding her that your love remains constant. For example: “Watching you build your own life makes me proud every day. No matter how old you become, you’ll always have my love and support.”

What can I write for my daughter’s birthday on WhatsApp?

Keep it warm and easy to read. Try: “Happy birthday to my beautiful daughter! May your day bring laughter, sweet surprises, and all the things that make you happy. Sending you the biggest hug!”

How can I make my daughter’s birthday wish funny?

Use humor that fits her personality and your relationship. You could joke about her love of snacks, her habit of borrowing your things, or how quickly she’s growing up. Keep the message affectionate so the joke feels loving rather than embarrassing.

What should I say to my daughter if we’re not very close?

Keep your message respectful, sincere, and free from pressure. A simple greeting such as “Happy birthday, daughter. I’m thinking of you today and sincerely wishing you happiness, good health, and a peaceful year ahead” can acknowledge the day without demanding a response.

How do I wish my daughter a happy birthday when she lives far away?

Let her know she’s on your mind and that the distance doesn’t change your relationship. For example: “Happy birthday, sweetheart! I wish we could celebrate together, but I’m sending you all my love and hoping your day is wonderful.”

Conclusion

Your daughter’s birthday is an opportunity to remind her that she matters, that you’re proud of her, and that your love doesn’t depend on her age or achievements.

Choose the daughter birthday wishes that best match her personality and your relationship. Add her name, a favorite memory, or a few words that come naturally to you. Even a short, sincere message can become something she remembers long after the candles are blown out.

By Charlotte Bennett

Hello, I'm Charlotte Bennett. I have always believed that words have the power to change lives. I write and curate quotes that encourage confidence, resilience, and self-improvement. I enjoy turning timeless wisdom into content that is easy to understand and meaningful for readers of all ages.

I love studying famous thinkers, writers, and leaders because their experiences continue to inspire my work. My mission is to make motivational ideas accessible to everyone.

Books:

  • Beyond Every Challenge
  • The Daily Mindset Journal

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *