How to Say “Thank You” in Japanese: Polite and Casual Expressions
Last updated: April 21, 2026 / This page may contain affiliate links.
In Japanese, there are several ways to say “thank you,” depending on the situation and level of politeness. The most common expressions are arigato (ありがとう) and arigato gozaimasu (ありがとうございます).
In this guide, you will learn how to say “thank you” naturally in Japanese, including when to use casual and polite forms.
Basic Ways to Say “Thank You” in Japanese
- ありがとう (arigato) – casual
- ありがとうございます (arigato gozaimasu) – polite
- ありがとうございました (arigato gozaimashita) – polite (past)
These are the most important expressions to remember when you want to say “thank you” in Japanese.
Casual vs Polite: When to Use Each
ありがとう (arigato)
Use this form with friends, family, or people you are close to. It sounds natural and friendly, but may be too casual in formal situations.
ありがとうございます (arigato gozaimasu)
Use this polite form in most situations, such as at shops, restaurants, or when speaking to someone you don’t know well.
ありがとうございました (arigato gozaimashita)
Use this form after something has been completed, such as after receiving a service or help.
Example Situations
- At a café: ありがとうございます
- With a friend: ありがとう
- After receiving help: ありがとうございました
Related Japanese Phrase
For a detailed explanation of the word arigato, including its meaning and usage, see:
“Arigato” Meaning in Japanese: How to Say Thank You Naturally
Summary
To say “thank you” in Japanese, use arigato for casual situations and arigato gozaimasu for polite ones. Choosing the right level of politeness is important for sounding natural and respectful.