How to Say ‘Thank you’ in Japanese
ありがとうございます
arigatou gozai masu
[ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zah-ee mahs]
Phrase Breakdown
ありがとう
arigatou
[ah-ree-gah-toh]
thank you
The core expression of gratitude; casual by itself but often combined with polite endings.
ご案内いただき、ありがとうと思いました。
I felt thankful for your guidance.
ござい
gozai
[goh-zah-ee]
to exist; polite support word
Part of the polite expression 'ありがとうございます'; adds formality and respect.
ご親切にしていただき、ございませんとは言えず、ありがとうございますと伝えました。
After receiving your kindness, I could only say thank you.
ます
masu
[mahs]
polite verb ending
A polite ending used in formal speech, often attached to verbs and set phrases.
ありがとうございますと丁寧に言います。
You say 'thank you' politely.
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