What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of çok (very/much), teşekkür (thanks) and ederim (I do/I make).
Which one should you use?
çok teşekkür ederim is a formal and polite way to express gratitude. In contrast, teşekkürler is a shorter and more casual version meaning "thanks."
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase functions as a verb phrase where teşekkür ederim means "I thank you." The verb ederim is in the first-person singular present tense, which is why the phrase literally translates to "I do thanks."
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /tʃok teʃeccyɾ edeɾim/. Use [ch]ange for /tʃ/, [c]ore for /k/, [sh]oe for /ʃ/, s[k]ew for /c/, AmE a[t]om for /ɾ/, cr[ee]k for /i/ and [m]uch for /m/.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid trying to use teşekkür as a standalone verb. It must be paired with etmek (to do) to function as a verb phrase.
When do people say it?
A common way to demonstrate appreciation in Turkish culture is to place your right hand over your heart or to slightly bow your head. When someone says çok teşekkür ederim, the standard polite response is rica ederim, which means "you're welcome" (literally "I request [it/of you]" in the sense of "it is my pleasure").
Did you know?
- While çok teşekkür ederim is formal, using it in a very casual setting can sometimes be interpreted as sarcasm or irony.
- In some traditional contexts, a person may respond to gratitude not with words, but by touching their forehead to show deep respect.
- While you are expressing gratitude, the word teşekkür actually shares a common root with the Arabic word for 'seeking' or 'requesting' something.
Examples in context
- Yardımınız için çok teşekkür ederim.Thank you very much for your help.
- Nazik davranışınız için çok teşekkür ederim.Thank you very much for your kind behavior.
- Hediye için çok teşekkür ederim.Thank you very much for the gift.
Example conversation
Selin is receiving a business card from Can at a seminar.
- SelinKartınızı verdiğiniz için çok teşekkür ederim.Thank you very much for giving me your card.
- CanRica ederim Selin Hanım.You're welcome, Ms. Selin.
- SelinTanıştığımıza çok memnun oldum.I am very pleased to meet you.
- CanBen de memnun oldum.I am pleased as well.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry çok teşekkür ederim, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Turkish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries teşekkür, çok, CC BY-SA 4.0.
