Saying “thank you” in Japanese goes beyond just being polite—it’s about showing respect for the other person and recognising your relationship with them. How you say it depends on who you’re speaking to and the situation you’re in. The language gives you a lot of ways to express gratitude, whether you’re chatting with a friend or thanking someone at work. Each phrase carries its own tone and level of formality, which helps you show the right kind of appreciation in any setting.
Why Politeness and Social Context Matter in Japan
In Japan, how you speak is often as important as what you say. Language is closely tied to hierarchy and setting, which means expressions of thanks aren’t one-size-fits-all. Tone, choice of words, and even body posture help signal your position in a conversation. Recognising when to use casual speech versus a formal expression shows that you respect the unspoken rules of communication—something that matters deeply in Japanese society.
Casual Ways to Say “Thank You” in Japanese
When speaking with friends, siblings, or others you’re close with, a laid-back tone works just fine. Casual expressions for “thank you” are straightforward and commonly heard in daily life. They’re quick to say and easy to remember, making them ideal for everyday use without the need for added formality.
1. ありがとう (Arigatou) – “Thank you”
Pronunciation: ah-ree-gah-toh
“Arigatou” is probably the most common way to say “thank you” in Japanese when you’re talking to someone you know well. It’s casual, easy to say, and you’ll hear it all the time between friends, family, or classmates. Imagine your friend helps you carry your groceries—just a simple “Arigatou!” is all it takes to show you appreciate it.
2. どうも (Doumo) – “Thanks”
Pronunciation: doh-moh
“Doumo” is a super casual way to say thanks—short and easy. People often use it in quick situations where a full “thank you” might feel a bit too much. Like when someone holds the door open for you, a simple “Doumo!” is more than enough.
3. サンキュー (Sankyu) – “Thank you”
Pronunciation: san-kyuu
“Sankyu” is a phrase borrowed from English that has been adapted into Japanese. It’s considered very casual and is commonly used among younger people or in informal settings. For example, after receiving a small favour from a friend, one might say, “Sankyu!”
Polite Ways to Say “Thank You” in Japanese
In most daily interactions, especially with people outside your immediate circle, a certain level of politeness is expected. The following expressions are appropriate for such situations.
4. ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu) – “Thank you very much”
Pronunciation: ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mas
This is a polite way to say “thank you” and is suitable for most situations, including interactions with strangers, service staff, or superiors. For instance, when a store clerk assists you, responding with “Arigatou gozaimasu” is appropriate.
5. どうもありがとうございます (Doumo arigatou gozaimasu) – “Thank you so much”
Pronunciation: doh-moh ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mas
This expression adds emphasis to your gratitude, making it even more polite. It’s used when someone has gone out of their way to help you. For example, if a colleague stays late to help you with a project, you might say, “Doumo arigatou gozaimasu.”
6. 本当にありがとうございます (Hontou ni arigatou gozaimasu) – “Really, thank you very much”.
Pronunciation: hon-toh-nee ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mas
This phrase conveys sincere and heartfelt thanks. It’s appropriate when you want to express deep appreciation. For instance, after receiving significant support during a challenging time, you might say, “Hontou ni Arigatou gozaimasu.”
7. 誠にありがとうございます (Makoto ni arigatou gozaimasu) – “I sincerely thank you”.
Pronunciation: mah-koh-toh-nee ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mas
This is a very formal expression of gratitude, often used in official correspondence or formal speeches. For example, in a business letter thanking a client, “Makoto ni Arigatou gozaimasu” would be appropriate.
8. 心より感謝します (Kokoro yori kansha shimasu) – “I sincerely appreciate it”
Pronunciation: koh-koh-roh yoh-ree kahn-shah shee-mas
This phrase expresses deep appreciation from the heart. It’s suitable for formal writing or speeches, such as thanking attendees at a formal event.
9. 感謝いたします (Kansha itashimasu) – “I deeply appreciate it”
Pronunciation: kahn-shah ee-tah-shee-mas
Kansha itashimasu is a humble and formal way to express gratitude, often used in business settings or formal communications. For example, in a professional email thanking a partner company, “Kansha itashimasu” would be appropriate.
10. ありがとうございました (Arigatou gozaimashita) – “Thank you” (past tense)
Pronunciation: ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mash-ta
This expression is used to thank someone for something that has already been completed. For instance, after a meeting or event, you might say, “Arigatou gozaimashita” to express thanks for the time and effort already given.
11. 拝謝申し上げます (Haisha moushiagemasu) – “Thank you very much” (Humble)
Pronunciation: hai-sha moh-shee-ah-geh-mas
This phrase is an extremely formal and humble way of expressing deep gratitude. It’s most often seen in written Japanese, such as business letters or ceremonial speeches. If you’re representing your company in correspondence with a senior official or client, you might use “拝謝申し上げます” to acknowledge their efforts or support respectfully.
Business & Professional Ways to Say “Thank You” in Japanese
In business settings, expressing gratitude correctly is not just courteous—it demonstrates professionalism and an understanding of workplace etiquette. These phrases are tailored for use in emails, meetings, and other formal situations. If you’re studying for business interactions, consider our Japanese Business Course.
12. お世話になっております (Osewa ni natte orimasu) – “Thank you for your support”
Pronunciation: oh-seh-wah nee naht-teh oh-ree-mas
Often used at the start of professional emails, this phrase acknowledges ongoing support or collaboration. Japanese people frequently say this in emails to clients or partners—even if they’re not currently providing direct help, the phrase expresses continuous appreciation.
13. お世話になりました (Osewa ni narimashita) – “Thank you for everything” (past interactions)
Pronunciation: oh-seh-wah nee nah-ree-mah-shee-tah
This is the past tense version of the previous phrase. It’s suitable when concluding a business relationship or after receiving help on a completed project. If a contract has ended, for example, this is the proper phrase to express gratitude for past cooperation.
14. ご協力ありがとうございます (Gokyouryoku arigatou gozaimasu) – “Thank you for your cooperation”
Pronunciation: goh-kyoh-ryoh-koo ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mas
Used in formal and work settings, this phrase shows appreciation for teamwork and collaboration. It might be used by a project manager thanking a team for their efforts or in a memo to acknowledge collective work.
15. 厚く御礼申し上げます (Atsuku orei moushiagemasu) – “I extend my deepest thanks”
Pronunciation: ah-tsu-koo oh-rei moh-shee-ah-geh-mas
This is a very formal expression appropriate for ceremonial addresses or significant milestones. For example, a manager might use this phrase in a retirement speech to thank colleagues for decades of support.
16. 何卒よろしくお願いいたします (Nanitodo yoroshiku onegai itashimasu) – “Thank you in advance for your cooperation”
Pronunciation: nah-nee-toh-zoh yoh-roh-shee-koo oh-neh-gai ee-tah-shee-mas
A commonly used phrase in written communication, especially when requesting a favour or future cooperation. It’s polite and implies both gratitude and a request. This is also highly relevant when greeting clients or higher-ups on formal occasions.
Apologetic Ways to Say “Thank You” (When “Thank You” Means “Sorry”)
In Japanese, some expressions serve dual purposes—used to thank someone while also acknowledging the trouble caused. These are used to show humility and appreciation at the same time.
17. すみません (Sumimasen) – “Excuse me / Thank you for the trouble”
Pronunciation: soo-mee-mah-sen
Though commonly known as “excuse me” or “sorry,” it’s also used to express gratitude, especially when someone has gone out of their way. For instance, if someone waits for you when you’re late, saying “Sumimasen” is a way to express both apology and thanks.
18. 申し訳ありません (Moushiwake arimasen) – “I sincerely apologise (and thank you)”
Pronunciation: moh-shee-wah-keh ah-ree-mah-sen
This is a formal apology that can also carry a deep sense of gratitude, used when someone has been greatly inconvenienced. It implies, “I’m sorry and truly grateful for your patience or understanding.”
19. ご迷惑をおかけして申し訳ありません (Gomeiwaku o okake shite moushiwake arimasen) – “I apologise for the inconvenience (and appreciate your patience)”
Pronunciation: goh-may-wah-koo oh oh-kah-keh shee-teh moh-shee-wah-keh ah-ree-mah-sen
This expression is often used in work settings or public notices. It’s a very humble way to acknowledge an inconvenience while showing appreciation for someone’s patience.
Unique & Rare Ways to Say “Thank You”
These less common expressions are context-dependent and often reflect deeper emotion or formality.
20. 助かります (Tasukarimasu) – “That really helps, thank you”
Pronunciation: tah-skah-ree-mas
Used when someone’s help makes a difference. It’s less about the favour itself and more about the outcome. For instance, if someone brings you medicine when you’re sick, “Tasukarimasu” reflects relief and gratitude.
21. 恩に着ます (On ni kimasu) – “I’m deeply indebted to you”
Pronunciation: ohn nee kee-mas
A very humble phrase expressing a sense of moral indebtedness. It’s rarely used in daily conversation but may appear in historical dramas or formal writing.
22. ありがたく存じます (Arigataku zonjimasu) – “I am grateful” (very formal)
Pronunciation: ah-ree-gah-tah-koo zon-jee-mas
This is a deeply formal version of “thank you,” commonly used in corporate speeches or formal writing. It expresses not just thanks but also solemn appreciation.
Japanese Gratitude in Gestures & Body Language
Words aren’t the only way Japanese people express gratitude—nonverbal cues are just as important.
Bowing
Bowing is the most common physical expression of thanks. The angle and depth of the bow reflect the level of respect and gratitude:
- Light bow (15°) – Used in casual settings with friends or younger siblings.
- Formal bow (30°) – Typical in polite, day-to-day interactions.
- Deep bow (45°) – Shows deep appreciation or apology in formal situations.
Hand Gestures & Nonverbal Thanks
- Hand on chest: Indicates humble appreciation and is often paired with a verbal expression.
- Clasped hands: A more informal and heartfelt gesture sometimes used by children or during humorous exchanges.
Regional & Dialect Variations of “Thank You” in Japan
Different regions of Japan have unique ways to express gratitude, reflecting local culture and identity.
- Kansai Dialect (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe):
- おおきに (Ookini) – A friendly and warm “thank you” used especially by older generations.
- Tohoku Dialect (Aomori):
- ありがとごし (Arigatogoshi) – A regional variation that may sound unusual to those outside northern Japan.
- Kyushu Dialect (Southern Japan):
- ありがとさげもした (Arigato sagemoshita) – A dialectal version expressing gratitude, typically heard in older speech.
- Okinawan Dialect:
- にふぇーでーびる (Nife deebiru) – A completely different phrase due to Okinawa’s unique language roots.
How to Respond to “Thank You” in Japanese
Responses vary depending on context, politeness, and the relationship between speakers. If you’re learning Japanese, mastering responses adds fluency and cultural depth. You may also want to check our article on How Are You in Japanese for more responses and expressions.
- どういたしまして (Dou itashimashite): The standard “You’re welcome.”
- いえいえ (Ieie): A casual “No problem.”
- とんでもないです (Tondemo nai desu): A humble way to reject excessive gratitude—”Not at all.”
- こちらこそありがとうございます (Kochira koso arigatou gozaimasu): “The pleasure is mine”—used to reciprocate thanks politely.
Conclusion
Saying “thank you in Japanese” is more than a simple exchange of words—it’s a reflection of social awareness, humility, and respect. Whether you’re chatting casually with friends or navigating a formal work environment, Japanese gives you a rich set of expressions to show gratitude. From a simple “ありがとう” to the respectful “拝謝申し上げます,” choosing the right phrase helps you show respect and communicate with cultural awareness.
If you’re interested in mastering these expressions and much more, consider joining our Online Japanese Course designed for every skill level. Or head to our Japanese Explorer to explore our services.
Want to go further with Japanese expressions? These blog posts will guide your journey:
- Learn Japanese Etiquette for Daily Life
- How to Speak Japanese Naturally
- Common Japanese Phrases for Travel
- Mastering Japanese Honorifics
Practice, listen closely to native speakers, and use these phrases daily—you’ll soon understand the important and complex aspect of gratitude in Japanese communication.
