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 mahss]
Phrase Breakdown
ありがとう
arigatou
[ah-ree-gah-toh]
thank you
A common expression of gratitude. This part carries the main meaning of thanks.
ほめられたら、ありがとうと笑顔で返せます。
When complimented, you can reply with a smile, “Thank you.”
ござい
gozai
[goh-zah-ee]
exist; be
Part of the polite set phrase ありがとうございます. It raises the politeness level.
ありがとうございますの「ござい」で丁寧さが増します。
The “gozai” in “arigatou gozaimasu” increases politeness.
ます
masu
[mahss]
polite ending
Completes the polite phrase, making it suitable in respectful conversation.
ありがとうございますの「ます」で正式な感じになります。
The “masu” in “arigatou gozaimasu” gives it a more formal feeling.
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