Japanese Language Lesson 4: Ways to Say Thank You

Japanese Language Lesson 4: Ways to Say Thank You

1. Thank you very much: どうもありがとうございます Doomo arigatoo gozaimasu (Formal)

=> This is a combination of politeness and strong gratitude. It’s very respectful and can be used in formal settings or when you are deeply grateful for someone’s help or generosity.

2. Thank you: ありがとうございます Arigatoo gozaimasu (Formal)

=> This expression is a polite way to say thank you. It’s appropriate in almost any situation but is especially important in customer service interactions or when speaking to someone of higher status.

3. Thank you: ありがとう Arigatoo (Informal)

=> The most universally recognized Japanese phrase for thank you. It’s casual and broadly used among friends, family, and peers. This version of thanks is informal and should generally be used in a relaxed context or with people you are familiar with.

4. Thanks: どうも Doomo (Informal)

=> Used in greetings, to emphasize apology or thanks.

5. Thanks: サンキュー Sankyuu (Informal)

=> Pronunciation: Sankyu is a Japanese slang version of the English “thank you”
This is very much a cool kid, slangy phrase that you might hear among young people, especially young men.

6. (Sorry for your trouble but) Thank you: すみませんor すいません Sumimasen or Suimasen (Formal)

7. “excuse me” or “I’m sorry” : すみません – Sumimasen (Formal)

=> Although primarily used to mean “excuse me” or “I’m sorry,” in the right context “sumimasen” can also express gratitude. This is particularly true when someone goes out of their way to help you, and you wish to acknowledge both the imposition and their effort.

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