どうも
dōmo[do̞ːmo̞]
The Japanese phrase for "thanks casually" is どうも (dōmo).
どうも is a highly versatile, informal expression. Depending on the context and your tone, it can mean "thanks," "hello," or even "goodbye." It is best used to acknowledge a small favor or a quick interaction, such as when someone holds a door for you or passes you a napkin.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, どうも means "very" or "somehow," but in this context, it functions as a shorthand version of more complete expressions of gratitude.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
どうも is an informal expression. For the most common and widely used casual way to say thank you, you can also use Arigatou. To make Arigatou sound even friendlier and more casual, you can add ne at the end to say Arigatou ne.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Kyoto, locals sometimes use ookini as a more casual and friendly version of arigatou.
How do you pronounce it?
dōmo
Did you know?
- The word どうも is actually a combination of the question word 'how' and the particle 'even' or 'also', creating an expression that essentially means 'no matter how'.
- In very casual settings, a small, quick nod of the head can sometimes replace the spoken word どうも entirely while still conveying the same meaning of 'thanks'.
- While it is common for quick interactions, using どうも toward a person of much higher social status can be perceived as dismissive or even rude due to its brevity.
Examples in context
- どうも。Doumo.Thanks.
- どうもありがとう。Doumo arigatou.Thanks a lot.
Example conversation
Kenta holds the door open for Misaki in a cafe.
- 健太 Kentaどうぞ。Douzo.Please (go ahead).
- 美咲 Misakiあ、どうも。A, doumo.Oh, thanks.
- 健太 Kentaいいえ。Iie.No problem.
- 美咲 Misakiまたね。Mata ne.See you later.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry どうも, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries どうも, CC BY-SA 4.0.
