What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is derived from the adjective arigatai, which literally means difficult to exist or rare/precious.
Which one should you use?
While arigato gozaimasu is the polite version, the shorter form arigatō is informal and used specifically with friends and family. Additionally, arigato gozaimashita is the form used to thank someone for something they have already done in the past.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
arigato gozaimasu is a polite form used with strangers or superiors. For a more casual tone with those close to you, such as friends or family, use the informal arigatō. In professional or business contexts, Domo arigato gozaimasu is often used to add emphasis.
How does it change in a sentence?
To thank someone for a service or a completed event that has already been finished, use the past tense form arigatō gozaimashita.
How do you pronounce it?
arigatō gozaimasu
When do people say it?
When saying thank you in Japan, bowing slightly is a common gesture of respect.
Did you know?
- In some professional settings, saying arigato gozaimasu to a superior can actually be considered too casual or even rude. In these cases, workers use more humble expressions like sumimasen which blends 'thank you' with 'I am sorry for the trouble'.
- While arigato is common, you will often hear Japanese people respond to it by saying ie ie which literally means 'no no'. This modest denial suggests that the favor was no trouble at all.
- The word arigato is related to the Buddhist concept of things being rare and precious. This is why the original meaning of the phrase refers to the 'rarity' of the kindness received.
Examples in context
- 教えてくれてありがとうございます。Oshiete kurete arigatou gozaimasu.Thank you for teaching me.
- プレゼント、ありがとうございます。Purezento, arigatou gozaimasu.Thank you for the present.
- お電話ありがとうございます。Odenwa arigatou gozaimasu.Thank you for your call.
Example conversation
Misaki is thanking Kenta for helping her carry heavy bags.
- 美咲 Misaki手伝ってくれてありがとうございます。Tetsudatte kurete arigatou gozaimasu.Thank you for helping me.
- 健太 Kentaいいえ、大丈夫ですよ。Iie, daijoubu desu yo.No problem, it's fine.
- 美咲 Misakiとても助かりました。Totemo tasukarimashita.It was a great help.
- 健太 Kentaまたいつでも言ってください。Mata itsudemo itte kudasai.Please tell me anytime.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ありがとうございます, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
