The words “thank you” are used to express gratitude. There are many different words and gestures used around the world to relay this message and show others that you appreciate their kindness. Making the effort to show even a basic understanding of the local language can go a long way, so we’ll show you how to say thank you in many languages.
Thank You in 30 Languages
Examples of how to say thank you in 30 different languages other than English: Arabic – shukran (shoe-kran), Chinese, Mandarin – xie xie (she-eh she-eh), Croatian – hvala (HVAH-lah), Danish – tak (tahg), Dutch – dank u (dahnk oo), Estonian – tänan (TA-nahn), Finnish – kiitos (key-toss), French – merci (MEHR-see), Greek – efharisto (ef-hah-rees-TOH), Hawaiian – mahalo (ma-HA-lo), Hindi – dhanyavaad (dun-yuh-vahd), Italian – grazie (GRAHTS-yeh), Japanese – arigato (ah-ree-GAH-toh), Korean – kamsahamnida (KAM-sah-ham-NEE-da), Latvian – paldies (PUHL-dyehs), Polish – dziękuję, Portuguese – obrigado, Romanian – mulţumesc, Spanish – gracias, Swahili – asante, Tagalog/Filipino – salamat
Using Different Languages to Say Thank You
Saying a sincere thank you is usually a great way to express your appreciation to someone who helps or supports you, but remember that in some cultures a small gesture or gift is welcome instead or, even, no thanks at all. Learn how to say thank you in a different language t
Say Thank You Using Sign Language
In addition to speaking the words thank you, you can also sign the words in American Sign Language.
- Start with the fingers on your prominent hand and place them near your lips. Keep your hand flat and move your hand forward and down in the direction of the person you want to thank.
Cultural Tips for Showing Gratitude
Saying thank you can vary from culture to culture.
- In China, it is more common to say thanks with a thoughtful gift rather than words
- Giving someone a small token of appreciation is more accepted than saying thank you in India, and in Japan, people often bow to one another to show their thanks rather than saying the words
