Expressing gratitude is a fundamental aspect of human interaction, and in Japanese culture, it holds particular significance. Knowing how to say “thank you” in Japanese is not just about learning phrases; it’s about understanding the nuances of politeness, formality, and cultural context. This guide will walk you through various ways to express your appreciation in Japanese, from formal expressions suitable for business settings to casual phrases for friends, and even non-verbal cues like bowing and gifting. Mastering these expressions will significantly enhance your communication and understanding in Japan.
Formal Ways to Say Thank You in Japanese
In formal situations, such as business interactions, addressing superiors, or showing deep respect, using polite and humble language is crucial. Japanese formal speech often incorporates apologies as a way of expressing gratitude, acknowledging the other person’s effort and consideration.
1. Sumimasen – すみません
Meaning: Excuse me, sorry, thank you (implied)
Pronunciation: soo-mee-mah-sehn
Sumimasen is a versatile phrase that can mean “excuse me” or “sorry,” but it also subtly conveys “thank you.” In formal contexts, especially in professional environments, sumimasen expresses gratitude by acknowledging the other person’s time, effort, or trouble they might have gone through for you. It’s a humble way of saying “thank you for your consideration despite the inconvenience.” This phrase highlights the context-heavy nature of the Japanese language, where meaning is often implied rather than explicitly stated.
2. Osoreirimasu – 恐れ入ります
Meaning: I’m deeply sorry, thank you (extremely formal)
Pronunciation: oh-soh-rey-ree-mahs
Osoreirimasu takes formality to the next level. It’s an intensely polite and deeply apologetic way of saying “thank you,” primarily used when expressing gratitude to superiors, clients, or someone of significantly higher status. This phrase conveys profound appreciation from the bottom of your heart, almost apologizing for causing them any trouble while thanking them profusely for their actions. Osoreirimasu can also be used to express condolences and a sense of awe towards the person you are addressing, underlining the depth of your gratitude.
3. Otsukare sama desu – おつかれさまです
Meaning: Thank you for your hard work, good job
Pronunciation: oht-soo-kah-reh sah-mah dehs
While not a direct translation of “thank you,” otsukare sama desu is a common and essential phrase used in workplaces to express appreciation for someone’s hard work. It translates to “you must be tired” or “you’ve worked hard.” It functions as a greeting, a farewell to colleagues leaving work, a congratulatory phrase, and a way to say “thank you” for someone’s effort. For instance, you can use it to thank a colleague for their contribution to a project or for completing a task. It’s a versatile phrase that fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect in the workplace.
Thanking for Food: Essential Japanese Table Manners
Japanese dining etiquette includes specific phrases to express gratitude for meals, reflecting a deep appreciation for food and those who provide it. These phrases are considered good manners and are integral to the dining experience in Japan.
4. Itadakimasu – 頂きます
Meaning: I humbly receive this food, thank you for this meal (before eating)
Pronunciation: ee-tah-dah-kee-mahs
Itadakimasu is said before starting a meal. It’s more than just saying “thank you for the food”; it’s an acknowledgement of the entire process that brought the food to your plate. Often accompanied by a slight bow and hands placed together, itadakimasu expresses gratitude to everyone involved, from the farmers and producers to the chefs and servers. It’s a non-religious expression of thankfulness for the meal itself and is customary before every meal in Japan. Think of it as thanking everyone from the waiter and chef to the fishermen and even the food itself.
5. Gochisousama deshita – ごちそうさまでした
Meaning: Thank you for the feast, that was a delicious meal (after eating)
Pronunciation: go-chee-soh-sah-mah desh-tah
Gochisousama deshita is the phrase to use after finishing a meal. It’s the counterpart to itadakimasu and is directed towards those who prepared and served the food. It conveys your appreciation for the meal, implying it was a treat and that you are satisfied. You can say this to your host after a dinner party or to the staff as you leave a restaurant. While you can shorten it to gochisousama or gochisou in casual settings, especially with close friends or family, using the full polite form is generally recommended. Be mindful when using it if someone is expected to pay, as saying it before they have offered might seem presumptuous.
Casual Ways to Say Thank You in Japanese
For informal settings with friends, family, or peers, you can use more relaxed and casual expressions of gratitude. These phrases are shorter and less formal, perfect for everyday interactions.
6. Doumo – どうも
Meaning: Thanks, cheers
Pronunciation: doh-moh
Doumo is a simple and versatile casual “thanks.” It’s a shortened version of doumo arigatou and is suitable for thanking close friends, peers, and in relaxed environments like casual cafes or shops. While widely used among younger people and in informal settings, it might be considered too casual for formal situations like business meetings or interactions with superiors.
7. Sankyu (English slang) – サンキュー
Meaning: Thank you (slang)
Pronunciation: sang-kyuu
Sankyu is Japanese slang derived from the English phrase “thank you.” It’s considered very casual and trendy, primarily used among young people, especially young men. While English speakers might recognize it, it’s generally advisable to use other Japanese phrases to express thanks. However, understanding sankyu can be helpful if you encounter it in informal conversations or youth culture. Interestingly, san kyuu also sounds like the number 39 in Japanese (san = three, kyuu = nine).
8. Azasu – あざす
Meaning: Thanks! Cheers! (informal slang)
Pronunciation: ah-zah-suh
Azasu is an extremely informal and slangy abbreviation of arigatou gozaimasu. It’s predominantly used by students, in anime, and among close friends. Azasu is a quick, casual way to say thanks, similar to “cheers” in English when expressing gratitude. It is inappropriate for formal settings, interactions with strangers, or anyone who might perceive it as impolite due to its lack of formality.
When Actions Speak Louder Than Words: Non-Verbal Ways to Show Gratitude
In Japanese culture, non-verbal communication is as important as spoken words. Bowing and gifting are significant ways to express gratitude and respect, often used in conjunction with verbal expressions.
9. Bowing
Bowing is a deeply ingrained custom in Japan, dating back centuries. It’s a versatile gesture used for greetings, apologies, and expressions of gratitude and respect. When thanking someone, bowing adds a layer of sincerity and politeness to your words.
To bow correctly, bend from the waist, keeping your back straight and your eyes downcast. The depth of the bow indicates the level of respect and gratitude. A slight 15-degree bow is casual, suitable for everyday thanks. A 30-degree bow is more formal, used in business settings or when greeting clients. The deepest 45-degree bow conveys profound gratitude, used for significant favors or when apologizing deeply. Men typically keep their arms at their sides while bowing, and women can either do the same or place their hands folded in front of them.
10. Gifting
Gifting is another important cultural practice in Japan and serves as a tangible way to express gratitude. There are specific occasions for gift-giving to show appreciation, notably Ochugen in summer and Oseibo at the year’s end. These are ideal times to give gifts to those you feel indebted to, such as parents, teachers, coworkers, or managers.
Gift-giving outside these traditional times is also common as a gesture of thanks. However, be aware of the concept of okaeshi, which is the custom of reciprocating gifts. When you receive a gift, it’s expected to give a return gift of roughly half the value, often shortly after receiving the initial gift. This extends even to small gestures; for example, if a neighbor shares food, returning the container with a small gift inside is considered polite. When giving or receiving gifts, always use both hands, and it’s customary to open gifts later, not immediately upon receipt. If gifting to a group, ensure everyone receives a gift to avoid appearing rude.
Ready to Express Your Thanks in Japanese?
Now you’re equipped with a variety of ways to say “thank you” in Japanese, from formal phrases to casual slang and important non-verbal customs. Understanding and using these expressions appropriately will not only improve your Japanese language skills but also deepen your appreciation of Japanese culture and etiquette. Practice these phrases and gestures to confidently and sincerely express your gratitude in any situation in Japan.
