danke
[ˈdaŋkə]
danke is the German way to say thank you.
danke is a common expression used to show gratitude or to thank someone. In casual, everyday interactions, it is often used as a standalone exclamation like "Thanks!"
Which one should you use?
While danke is a standard way to say thanks, vielen Dank is a more formal and emphatic way to express gratitude. For a more personal touch when speaking to someone you know well, you can use the complete sentence Ich danke dir.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In western regions such as Saarland and Rheinland-Pfalz, the word Merci is sometimes used.
How does it change in a sentence?
Adding schön to danke to form Danke schön makes the expression more polite and emphasizes the gratitude.
When do people say it?
The standard response to danke is bitte, which means "you're welcome" or "please".
Did you know?
- If you say Danke with a rising intonation, it can actually function as a polite way to decline an offer, such as when someone asks if you want more coffee.
- The word bitte, the standard response to danke, is a linguistic chameleon because it can mean 'please', 'you're welcome', or even 'pardon?' depending on context.
- While danke is the core of the expression, adding the word schön to make Danke schön does not literally mean 'thank you beautiful', but acts as an intensifier for your gratitude.
Examples in context
- Vielen Dank für Ihre Hilfe.Thank you very much for your help.
- Herzlichen Dank für die Einladung.Heartfelt thanks for the invitation.
- Danke, dass du immer für mich da bist.Thank you for always being there for me.
- Danke für das Geschenk.Thank you for the gift.
- Danke, das ist sehr nett.Thanks, that is very kind.
Example conversation
Julia gives Felix a cup of coffee.
- JuliaHier ist dein Kaffee, Felix.Here is your coffee, Felix.
- FelixDanke, Julia!Thanks, Julia!
- JuliaGerne geschehen.You're welcome.
- FelixEr schmeckt sehr gut.It tastes very good.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry danke, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
