How to Say Thank You in Japanese (Without Sounding Like a Robot)

May 29, 2025

Have you ever been in a situation where you wanted to say thank you in Japanese, but your brain short-circuited and you just awkwardly nodded instead? Maybe you panicked and blurted out “Arigato gozaimasu!” with way too much enthusiasm, making everyone within a 10-meter radius question their life choices.

Don’t worry. We’ve all been there.

Japanese has a lot of ways to say thank you. And if you’re not careful, you might end up using one that makes you sound like a time traveler from the Edo period or, worse, a rude foreigner who just learned the language from anime.

But fear not, fellow language adventurer! In this guide, we’ll break down the different ways to say thank you in Japanese, when to use them, and how not to embarrass yourself in the process. Ready? Let’s dive in!

1. Arigato (ありがとう) – The Classic “Thanks”

If Japanese thank-yous were members of a boy band, arigato would be the lead singer. It’s short, simple, and everyone knows it.

When to use it: With friends, family, or casual situations where you don’t need to be too formal.
Example: Your friend buys you a coffee. You nod coolly and say, “Arigato.”
Pro tip: Don’t just say it and walk away. Give a little smile. Maybe a head nod. Own it.

🚨 Warning: Saying just arigato to a boss or a stranger might come off as a bit too casual. It’s kind of like texting “thx” to your grandma. Not the worst, but also… not ideal.

2. Arigato Gozaimasu (ありがとうございます) – The Polite Upgrade

This is arigato’s fancier, more refined cousin. It’s perfect when you need to sound polite but don’t want to go full-on formal mode.

When to use it: With teachers, coworkers, strangers, or anyone you want to show respect to.
Example: You drop your wallet and someone picks it up for you. You bow slightly and say, “Arigato gozaimasu!”
Pro tip: The longer and slower you say it, the more formal it sounds. Whispering it dramatically in slow motion? Weird. Don’t do that.

Bonus: If the event happened in the past, use “arigato gozaimashita” instead. It’s like saying “thank you for what you just did.”

3. Domo (どうも) – The Lazy “Thanks”

Ever been too lazy to say a full thank you? Well, Japan’s got you covered.

When to use it: When you’re in a rush, feeling extra casual, or just don’t want to waste syllables.
Example: The cashier hands you your change. You grab it and mumble “Domo.” Boom. Efficient.
Pro tip: If you say “Domo arigato”, it’s a slightly more proper version. But if you say “Domo arigato, Mr. Roboto”, congratulations—you’re either a Styx fan or a dad making bad jokes.

🚨 Warning: Saying just domo to someone important might sound a bit dismissive, like a weak “meh, thanks, I guess.” So, use with caution.

4. Domo Arigato Gozaimasu (どうもありがとうございます) – The Overachiever

This is thank you on steroids. It’s like sending a handwritten thank-you card instead of a text. You sound extra grateful and extra polite.

When to use it: When you really, really appreciate something, or if you’re in a super formal situation.
Example: Your boss gives you a raise. You bow deeply and say, “Domo arigato gozaimasu!” (While internally screaming with joy.)
Pro tip: Use this when you want to be extra respectful. It works wonders.

5. Osoreirimasu (おそれいります) – The Business Thank You

Now we’re entering corporate Japan territory. If you’re working in Japan, this phrase is a must.

When to use it: At work, with clients, or when you want to sound super professional.
Example: A colleague helps you with a report. You bow slightly and say, “Osoreirimasu.”
Pro tip: If you’re working in Japan, just memorize it. It’ll make you sound like a pro. (Even if you have no idea what’s going on.)

6. Sumimasen (すみません) – The Sneaky “Sorry” Thank You

This one’s tricky because sumimasen technically means “I’m sorry”, but in Japan, it’s often used to mean thank you too. (Confusing? Yes. But stay with me.)

When to use it: When someone goes out of their way for you, and you feel a mix of gratitude and mild guilt.
Example: A stranger holds the door open for you. You nod and say, “Ah, sumimasen!”
Pro tip: If you ever forget how to say thank you, sumimasen works in a pinch. Just don’t overuse it, or people will think you’re always apologizing for existing.

7. Otsukaresama (お病れ様) – The “Thank You for Your Hard Work”

Japanese people love acknowledging effort. Instead of just saying thank you, they often say otsukaresama—which basically means “you must be tired” but really means thank you for working hard.

When to use it: With coworkers, teammates, or anyone who just finished a long task.
Example: Your coworker finishes a big project. You pat them on the back and say, “Otsukaresama desu!”
Pro tip: If you’re the boss, you’d say “Gokurosama desu” instead. Same meaning, but with more authority.