How to Say ‘Thank you (polite).’ in Japanese
ありがとうございます。
arigatou gozai masu
[ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zah-ee mahss]
💬 Usage Tip: Polite standard thanks. You can say it at the end of ordering or when receiving your food.
🇯🇵 In Japan: A small bow is common when saying [ありがとうございます], even in fast food.
Phrase Breakdown
ありがとう
arigatou
[ah-ree-gah-toh]
thanks
Base word “thanks.” With ございます and ます it becomes the standard polite “Thank you very much.”
ありがとうございます。
Thank you very much.
ござい
gozai
[goh-zah-ee]
(part of polite set phrase)
Part of ありがとうございます. Not usually used alone; it helps make the expression polite and formal.
ありがとうございます。
Thank you very much.
ます
masu
[mahss]
(polite verb ending)
Polite ending used in many expressions. In ございます it completes the polite phrase.
ありがとうございます。
Thank you very much.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager