How to say “thank you” in Japanese

5 ways to say thank you in Japanese

1. ありがとう

   arigatōah-ree-gah-toh

   Slow

   Means: Thanks

   Use it: Friends and family.

2. ありがとうございます

   arigatō gozaimasuah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mahs

   Slow

   Means: Thank you (polite)

   Use it: Strangers, shops, work.

3. どうもありがとうございます

   dōmo arigatō gozaimasudoh-moh ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mahs

   Slow

   Means: Thank you very much

   Use it: Extra polite thanks.

4. どうも

   dōmodoh-moh

   Slow

   Means: Thanks

   Use it: Quick, casual thanks.

5. すみません

   sumimasensoo-mee-mah-sen

   Slow

   Means: Sorry / thank you for the trouble

   Use it: When someone does something for you.