How to Say ‘Thank you very much.’ in Japanese
ありがとうございます。
arigatou gozai masu
[ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zah-ee mahss]
🇯🇵 In Japan: This is the standard polite thank-you for staff, strangers, and most public situations. It sounds warm and normal without being overly formal.
Phrase Breakdown
ありがとう
arigatou
[ah-ree-gah-toh]
thank you
A thankful expression that becomes more polite when followed by ございます.
ご対応いただき、ありがとうございます。
Thank you for your assistance.
ございます
gozai masu
very polite form of 'to be'; thank you very much
Adds politeness and makes ありがとう into the standard polite phrase ありがとうございます.
ありがとうございます。
Thank you very much.
Words in this phrase
ござい
gozai
[goh-zah-ee]
to be; to exist (polite part)
Part of a very polite phrase, often used in formal customer interactions.
本当にございませんが、満席です。
We are truly sorry, but we are fully booked.
ます
masu
[mahss]
polite ending
Creates a formal and respectful tone in service situations.
空きがございます。
There is availability.
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