What does it mean word for word?
The phrase agradecer de verdad is composed of the verb agradecer (to thank or to be grateful) and the adverbial phrase de verdad (truly or really).
Which one should you use?
agradecer sinceramente translates more specifically to 'sincerely appreciate'. If you want to describe your state of being rather than the act of thanking, you can use the formal phrase Estoy muy agradecido/a to say 'I am very grateful'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For formal situations, agradecer sinceramente is an ideal choice, as is Estoy muy agradecido/a. When speaking to a superior or a stranger, you should use the formal pronoun le in phrases like le agradezco de verdad (I really appreciate it to you). In contrast, Estoy super agradecido/a is an informal phrase used to add emphasis to your appreciation.
How does it change in a sentence?
When expressing appreciation for a specific action, you often use object pronouns before the verb. For example, in the phrase te lo agradezco de verdad, the pronouns lo (it) and te (to you) are placed before the verb to mean 'I really appreciate it (to you)'.
How do you pronounce it?
/aɡɾadeθeɾ de beɾdad/
Did you know?
- The verb agradecer is conceptually linked to the idea of 'pleasure' or 'liking', because it stems from the root grado, which refers to one's 'will' or 'preference'.
- While English speakers often use 'appreciate' to mean 'to value' or 'to realize the importance of', the Spanish agradecer focuses almost exclusively on the act of expressing thanks or being grateful.
- While English speakers often say 'I appreciate it' without a person, Spanish speakers typically use the pronoun le or te to explicitly direct the gratitude toward someone.
Examples in context
- Agradezco sinceramente su apoyo en este asunto tan importante.I really appreciate your support in this matter.
- Estoy muy agradecido por la oportunidad de trabajar en esta empresa.I am very grateful for the opportunity to work in this company.
- Valoramos enormemente su contribución a nuestro proyecto.We greatly appreciate your contribution to our project.
- Estoy super agradecido por tu ayuda con la mudanza.I'm really grateful for your help with the move.
- Mil gracias por acompañarme hoy, lo aprecio muchísimo.Thank you so much for accompanying me today, I really appreciate it.
- Quiero agradecer de verdad tu ayuda.I want to truly appreciate your help.
- Te quiero agradecer de verdad este regalo.I want to truly appreciate this gift from you.
- Debo agradecer de verdad su amabilidad.I must truly appreciate her kindness.
Example conversation
Mateo is thanking María for helping him move some heavy boxes.
- MateoMaría, quiero agradecer de verdad que me hayas ayudado.María, I really appreciate you having helped me.
- MaríaNo hay de qué, Mateo. Fue un placer.Don't mention it, Mateo. It was a pleasure.
- MateoEres una gran amiga.You are a great friend.
- María¡De nada! Siempre que necesites algo, dime.You're welcome! Whenever you need something, tell me.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries agradecer, de, verdad, CC BY-SA 4.0.
