Isn’t it great when someone does something nice for you? You feel grateful, but how do you express it? The word thank has Germanic roots and is related to the word for “thought” and “gratitude.” You could say a simple thanks, but if you want to change it up, we’re sharing a few different ways to say thank you in English!

Ways to say "thank you" in English

There are formal and informal ways for saying thank you, and they often depend on the thing or action you are grateful for. For example, if someone holds the door open for you, and you are both in a rush, you could simply say, “Thanks.” If the act is more meaningful, perhaps they made you a nice dinner, then you could say a more thoughtful, “This means a lot.” (You might also mention how delicious the food is 😋)

Here are some common expressions for saying thank you that can be used in more formal situations. 

English When to use it
This means a lot to me Use when somebody does you a favor or gives you a particularly meaningful gift. It doesn’t have to be a physical gift—maybe they helped you unpack after moving to a new house!
This means so much to me
I value the help (or support) you’ve given me
I can’t express my gratitude enough
I’m (so) grateful
I appreciate it This is much more straightforward and can be used to thank someone for a small favor. This would be a great way to thank a colleague at work for sharing notes after a meeting.
I appreciate you
I am forever thankful These phrases emphasize the magnitude and longevity of the thankfulness. You might use these for particularly emotional situations, like if a friend helped you during a particularly difficult time.
I will never forget your kindness (or help)
I knew I could count on you These can be used to emphasize how important a person was to you. These could also be used for that friend who helped you unpack after your big move!
I’m indebted to you
I could never have done it without you

Informal ways of saying "thank you"

While all of the above ways to say thank you are endearing, they might feel a little too serious for some situations. (You don’t have to feel “indebted” to someone who said “Bless you!” after you sneeze!) Here are a few brief and informal ways to say thanks.

English When to use it
Thanks a lot / a million / a bunch / a ton / so much! These are the quickest and most direct ways to thank someone.
Many thanks!
You’re the best! If someone did you a favor, and you hope to repay them one day, use one of these!
I owe you!
You’re a lifesaver!
Much obliged! These are brief, but heartfelt.
Appreciate it!
Ta! Ta muchly! These are typically used in the U.K., Australia, and New Zealand (but not in the U.S.!).
Cheers!

How to say thank you by text

The most formal and sincere way to thank someone is to take the time to write a thank-you letter (and mail it!). While this is not as common a practice anymore, you could send an email or even text message to show your appreciation. In a text, you could use the abbreviation THX or include emojis to add some feeling to your message. Commonly used emojis to signal thank you include the folded hands emoji (🙏🏽), the raising hands emoji (🙌🏽), the smiling face (🤗), and, of course, hearts (🩷❤️💜).

How to respond to "thank you"

So now that you know multiple ways to say thank you, what would you say in return? In a formal situation, the standard response is, “You’re welcome.” More recently, this response has been perceived as a bit stuffy or even assuming and not genuine as in, you expected to be thanked when you did the kind deed. 

No problem… there are many other options! In fact, you can actually say, “No problem!” Here are other phrases you can use in response:

  • No worries
  • Don't mention it
  • Sure
  • My pleasure
  • Of course
  • Anytime
  • Happy to help

Thanks for reading! 

Speaking of thank-yous, we appreciate that you are here learning about ways to say “thank you” in English! In other words, you’re the best 💚