Expressing gratitude is an essential part of Japanese culture. When someone does something kind for you or you want to show appreciation, saying “good thanks” in Japanese can leave a positive impression. In this guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal ways to express gratitude in Japanese, along with helpful tips and examples.
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Formal Expressions of Gratitude:
Being polite and respectful is highly valued in Japanese society. These formal expressions are commonly used when showing gratitude in professional settings, or when dealing with people older or in a higher position than you.
1. ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)
The most common way to say “thank you” formally is by using the phrase “ありがとうございます” (Arigatou gozaimasu). This phrase is a combination of “arigatou” (thank you) and the honorific expression “gozaimasu” (to be). It is suitable for expressing gratitude in most formal situations.
Example:
Boss: このプロジェクトの達成に多くの労力を費やしました。本当に感謝しています。 (Kono purojekuto no tassei ni ooku no rouryoku o tsuiyashimashita. Hontou ni kansha shiteimasu.)
Employee: ありがとうございます。お褒めの言葉を頂いて光栄です。(Arigatou gozaimasu. O-hometo no kotoba o itadaite kouei desu.)
Boss: どういたしまして。頑張った成果には、感謝の気持ちを伝えたいです。(Dou itashimashite. Ganbatta seika ni wa, kansha no kimochi o tsutaetai desu.)
2. どうもありがとうございます (Doumo arigatou gozaimasu)
To convey an even deeper level of gratitude, you can use the extended form “どうもありがとうございます” (Doumo arigatou gozaimasu). This expression adds emphasis and sincerity to your appreciation, making it suitable for significant gestures or when expressing profound gratitude.
Example:
Host: 心からのおもてなしで、至れり尽くせりでした。どうもありがとうございます。(Kokoro kara no omotenashi de, itareritsukuseri deshita. Doumo arigatou gozaimasu.)
Guest: どうもありがとうございます。至福のひとときを味わうことができました。(Doumo arigatou gozaimasu. Shifuku no hitotoki o ajiwau koto ga dekimashita.)
Host: お力になれて光栄です。またお越しいただけることを楽しみにしています。(O-chikara ni narete kouei desu. Mata o-koshi itadakeru koto o tanoshimi ni shiteimasu.)
Informal Expressions of Gratitude:
In more casual situations or when interacting with friends, family, or peers, informal expressions of gratitude are preferred. These expressions create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
1. ありがとう (Arigatou)
When addressing friends, classmates, or colleagues of the same rank, “ありがとう” (Arigatou) is a commonly used informal way to express gratitude. This shortened form of “ありがとうございます” still conveys appreciation but in a more casual and friendly manner.
Example:
Friend: 今日は私のために時間を作ってくれてありがとう！(Kyou wa watashi no tame ni jikan o tsukutte kurete arigatou!)
You: いえいえ、何も問題ないよ！(Ieie, nanimo mondai nai yo!)
Friend: ありがとう、本当に助かったよ！(Arigatou, hontou ni tasukatta yo!)
2. どうも (Doumo)
If you want to express gratitude in a more casual and laid-back way, you can use the word “どうも” (Doumo). This expression carries a sense of informality and is often used among close friends or family members.
Example:
Sibling: お菓子を買ってきてくれてありがとう！(Okashi o katte kite kurete arigatou!)
You: どうも、また好きなものがあったら教えてね。(Doumo, mata suki na mono ga attara oshiete ne.)
Sibling: そうだね、ありがとう！(Souda ne, arigatou!)
Conclusion:
Now that you have learned the formal and informal ways to say “good thanks” in Japanese, you can show your gratitude appropriately in various situations. Remember to consider the level of formality required and adjust your expressions accordingly. Whether it’s a professional setting or a casual interaction with friends, expressing gratitude in Japanese is a wonderful way to create positive connections.
Remember: Practice makes perfect, so make sure to use these expressions regularly to become more fluent in expressing gratitude in Japanese!
