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]
💬 Usage Tip: [ありがとうございます] is the standard polite thank-you. Safe, natural, and always useful.
🇯🇵 In Japan: Polite thanks are common in Japanese service interactions. Staff may also respond with a polite nod or [どういたしまして], though that exact phrase is less common than in textbook dialogues.
Phrase Breakdown
ありがとう
arigatou
[ah-ree-gah-toh]
thank you
The main word of thanks in a polite expression.
教えてくれて、ありがとうございます。
Thank you for telling me.
ございます
gozai
very polite auxiliary phrase
The polite part that makes 'thank you' sound formal and respectful.
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]
polite honorific part
Part of ございます that makes the thanks more formal and polite.
案内をありがとうございます。
Thank you for the guidance.
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