감사하다
gamsahada[ˈka̠(ː)msʰa̠ɦa̠da̠]
The Korean phrase for 'thank' is 감사하다 (gamsahada).
감사하다 is used to express gratitude to someone for something they have done. In Korean, this functions as an adjective-like verb describing the state of being grateful, rather than a transitive verb used to 'thank someone' directly.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form 감사합니다 is the standard polite way to say 'thank you' in formal or professional settings. For casual interactions with close friends or those younger than you, use the non-honorific form 감사해.
How do you pronounce it?
gamsahada
Did you know?
- The word 감사하다 can be a homonym meaning 'to conduct an audit' depending on the Hanja used. In a business context, the same sounds might refer to an official inspection rather than an expression of gratitude.
- In some traditional social contexts, Koreans may respond to a 'thank you' by saying 아니에요, which literally means 'it is not'. This functions as a humble way to deny that the favor was a big deal.
- While 감사합니다 is the standard formal thanks, the pure Korean word 고맙습니다 is often felt as warmer and more heartfelt. Choosing between them can subtly signal whether you are being professionally polite or personally sincere.
Example conversation
Ji-eun is thanking Do-hyeon for carrying her bags.
- 지은 Ji-eun짐을 들어줘서 정말 감사하다, 도현 씨.jimeul deureojwoseo jeongmal gamsahada, Dohyeon ssi.Thank you so much for carrying the bags, Do-hyeon.
- 도현 Do-hyeon아니에요. 별거 아니에요.anieyo. byeolgeo anieyo.No problem. It was nothing.
- 지은 Ji-eun덕분에 훨씬 편하게 왔어요.deokbune hwolshin pyeonhage wasseoyo.Thanks to you, it was much easier to get here.
- 도현 Do-hyeon도움이 되었다니 다행이에요.doumi doeeotdani dahaengieyo.I'm glad I could be of help.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 감사하다, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 감사하다, CC BY-SA 4.0.
