gratias ago
[ˈɡraː.ti.aːs ˈa.ɡoː]
gratias ago is the Latin way to say thanks.
The phrase is used to express appreciation or gratitude.
Meaning: used to express appreciation or gratitude (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to I give thanks. The verb ago is in the first-person singular present indicative, meaning the phrase is literally I am giving thanks.
Did you know?
- In Roman culture, the concept of gratia went beyond a simple 'thank you'. It described a complex social system of mutual obligations, influence, and prestige that governed political and social life.
- The verb ago in this phrase does not mean 'to say' or 'to speak', but rather 'to drive' or 'to perform an action', much like driving a chariot.
- The word gratias is the plural form of gratia, implying that when you thank someone, you are offering multiple 'favors' or 'acts of gratitude'.
Examples in context
- Gratias ago pro auxilio tuo.Thanks for your support.This sentence shows how to use gratias ago to thank someone for their support.Tatoeba #11779329 by soridsolid, translation #2645457 by CK
- Gratias ago, quod vascula eluisti.Thanks for washing the dishes.This sentence shows how to use gratias ago to thank someone for a specific task like washing dishes.Tatoeba #12355843 by soridsolid, translation #6438667 by CK
- Gratias ago.Thanks.This sentence shows gratias ago used as a simple, standalone expression of thanks.Tatoeba #2425719 by bionicboy, translation #2057650 by nava
- Gratias tibi ago, magister.I thank you, teacher.
- LibenterYou're welcome
- Gratias maximas, amice!Many thanks, my friend!
Example conversation
Marcus gives a small gift to Julia in a garden.
- MarcusEcce, tibi hoc donum fero.Here, I bring this gift to you.
- JuliaGratias ago, Marce.Thanks, Marcus.
- MarcusLibenter hoc tibi dedi.I gave this to you gladly.
- JuliaPulchrum est.It is beautiful.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “thanks” translations and entries gratias ago, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ago, gratias ago, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
