un grand merci
/œ̃ ɡʁɑ̃ mɛʁ.si/
The French phrase for "a big thank you" is un grand merci.
un grand merci is an expression used to show strong gratitude or appreciation. It is commonly used in written forms such as emails, cards or social media posts to convey heartfelt appreciation.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of un (a), grand (big/great) and merci (thank you/thanks).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
While widely used, un grand merci is slightly more informal and warm than je vous remercie chaleureusement. In formal contexts, you might use Je vous suis très reconnaissant(e) (I am very grateful to you) or Je tiens à vous exprimer ma gratitude (I want to express my gratitude to you).
How does it change in a sentence?
When directing the thank you toward a specific person, use the preposition à after the phrase: un grand merci à [quelqu'un]. When expressing gratitude for a specific thing or action, use the preposition pour after the phrase: un grand merci pour [quelque chose].
How do you pronounce it?
/œ̃ ɡʁɑ̃ mɛʁ.si/
Did you know?
- The word merci shares its root with the English word 'mercy'. In Latin, it comes from mercēdem, which meant 'wages' or 'fee'.
- The term merci used to mean 'mercy' or 'pity' in its original Old French context. It was not until later that the word shifted from a plea for pity to a standard expression of thanks.
- In French, you describe a thank you as grand (big/great) rather than using gros, which is the word for 'fat' or 'thick'. Using un gros merci would sound physically awkward to a native speaker.
Examples in context
- Un grand merci de ma famille et moi pour tout ce que vous avez fait pour nous.A big thank you from my family and me for everything you've done for us.This sentence shows how to use un grand merci to express appreciation toward others.Tatoeba #5657220 by Scorpionvenin14, translation #5657205 by zumley
- Merci beaucoup pour votre aide précieuse, Jeanne! Je vous suis très reconnaissant(e) d'avoir pris le temps de me montrer le chemin.Thank you very much for your invaluable help, Jeanne! I am very grateful to you for taking the time to show me the way.
- Un grand merci pour votre aide précieuse.A big thank you for your precious help.
- Je vous dis un grand merci pour ce cadeau.I say a big thank you to you for this gift.
Example conversation
Lucas has helped Manon move into her new apartment.
- ManonUn grand merci pour ton aide aujourd'hui, Lucas.A big thank you for your help today, Lucas.
- LucasDe rien, c'était avec plaisir !You're welcome, it was a pleasure!
- ManonTu es vraiment un ami génial.You are truly a great friend.
- LucasJe suis content que tu sois bien installée.I am glad that you are well settled.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry un grand merci, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries grand, merci, un, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
