molte grazie
The English phrase 'thanks a lot' is translated into Italian as molte grazie.
The phrase is used to express strong gratitude. While molte grazie is a direct way to say 'many thanks', you may also encounter grazie mille, which translates to 'thanks a thousand' and is a common way to express deep gratitude. For even more emotional depth, you can say grazie mille di cuore, meaning 'thanks a thousand times from the heart'.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of molte (many) and grazie (thanks).
Which one should you use?
While molte grazie is a literal way to say 'many thanks', grazie mille is a more common and idiomatic way to express 'thanks a lot'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The expression Grazie un sacco, which translates to 'thanks a lot', is an informal expression most commonly heard in Northern Italy.
How does it change in a sentence?
To increase the intensity of your gratitude, you can use the superlative form moltissime grazie, which means 'many many thanks' or 'thanks a lot'.
Did you know?
- The phrase grazie mille can be used sarcastically. Depending on the tone, it can actually mean 'thanks for nothing' when someone has been unhelpful.
- The word grazie is actually the plural of grazia, which means 'grace'. When you say 'many thanks', you are literally wishing someone many instances of divine or social grace.
- The informal phrase grazie un sacco uses the word sacco, which means 'sack' or 'bag'. It is the Italian equivalent of saying 'thanks a bunch' in English.
Examples in context
- Le sono molto grato per l'opportunità di lavorare con lei. Grazie mille per la fiducia riposta in noi.I am very grateful for the opportunity to work with you. Thanks a lot for the trust you have shown in us.
- Mille grazie, sei fantastico!Thanks a lot, you're amazing!
- Molte grazie per l'aiuto.Thanks a lot for the help.
- Molte grazie per il bellissimo regalo.Thanks a lot for the beautiful gift.
- Molte grazie, sei molto gentile.Thanks a lot, you are very kind.
Example conversation
Lorenzo brings a coffee to Sofia at her office.
- SofiaUn caffè per me, Lorenzo?A coffee for me, Lorenzo?
- LorenzoSì, eccolo qui.Yes, here it is.
- SofiaMolte grazie, sei un tesoro!Thanks a lot, you are a sweetheart!
- LorenzoDi niente, Sofia.You're welcome, Sofia.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries grazie, CC BY-SA 4.0.
