What does it mean word for word?
The phrase hartelijk bedankt literally translates to "heartfelt thanks". The word hartelijk is an adverb meaning "heartfelt" or "cordial", and bedankt is the past participle of the verb bedanken, which means "to thank".
Which one should you use?
bedankt is a neutral and common way to say "thanks", whereas hartelijk bedankt is used to express stronger or more sincere gratitude. For more emphasis on a high level of gratitude, you can use Heel erg bedankt. If you wish to use a phrase equivalent to "many thanks", particularly in written correspondence, you can use veel dank. To say "thank you very much" in a polite manner, use Dank u wel. For very casual situations, you can use the informal Super bedankt to mean "thanks so much".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
hartelijk bedankt is a polite and relatively formal way to express gratitude. In contrast, bedankt is a more casual and neutral option. For informal settings, you might use bedankt or the very casual Super bedankt. Dank u wel serves as a polite way to say "thank you very much", and veel dank is a slightly more formal option often found in writing.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈɦɑrtələk bəˈdɑŋkt/
Did you know?
- The Dutch word bedanken can also mean 'to decline' or 'to refuse' an offer. For example, saying ik bedank can mean 'no thank you'.
- In very casual Belgian Dutch, you might hear merci instead of bedankt. This is a result of French influence on the Southern Netherlands.
- In some Dutch regions, people may respond to bedankt with geen dank, which literally means 'no thanks'. It is the equivalent of saying 'don't mention it' or 'you are welcome'.
Examples in context
- Hartelijk bedankt voor het mooie cadeau.Heartfelt thanks for the beautiful gift.
- Bedankt voor je hulp!Thanks for your help!
- Dank u wel voor uw vriendelijkheid.Thank you very much for your kindness.
- Hartelijk bedankt voor de uitnodiging.Heartfelt thanks for the invitation.
- Hartelijk bedankt voor al uw hulp.Thanks a lot for all your help.
Example conversation
Levi is leaving Sophie's house after a wonderful dinner.
- LeviHet eten was echt heerlijk, Sophie.The food was truly delicious, Sophie.
- SophieGraag gedaan, Levi!You're welcome, Levi!
- LeviHartelijk bedankt voor de gezellige avond.Thanks a lot for the lovely evening.
- SophieGeen dank, kom snel weer langs.Don't mention it, come visit again soon.
