Definition thank you in American English

Ways of saying thank you

Thanks (a lot)/Thank you (very much)

the most usual way of saying thank you

That’s very nice of you

a formal way of saying thank you, often used when refusing an invitation

You saved my life/I owe you one

an informal way of saying thank you, used when someone has helped you in a difficult situation

Thanks a bunch

used ironically, when someone has not helped you at all

You’re too kind

used for saying thank you in a way that sounds polite but is not completely sincere

You shouldn’t have

used when someone gives you a present

I’d like to thank...

used when making a formal speech

Many thanks

a formal way of saying thank you, used in letters and emails

Examples:

Thanks a lot for all your help.

That’s very nice of you, Mrs. Wilson, but I’m afraid we’d already made plans to have lunch in town.

Oh, thanks, John, you’ve saved my life! She was just about to ask me for my homework. ♦ Thanks for telling my mom I wasn’t here. I owe you one!

“You could always join us later.” “Yeah, thanks a bunch, when all the food will be gone.”

“Since you did all the housework and cooked dinner, I’ll clear the table.” “You’re too kind!”

Oh, you shouldn’t have! These flowers are beautiful.

I’d like to thank my mother, my father, and all those who’ve helped me over the years.

Many thanks for the beautiful present.

Ways of accepting thanks

You’re welcome/Don’t mention it

used in reply to someone who has thanked you to say that you were happy to help

Not at all/It’s nothing/(It’s) my pleasure

a more formal way of replying to someone who has thanked you

It’s/That’s all right/(It’s) no problem

used in reply to someone who has thanked you when you know the person well

Examples:

“Thank you very much for the ride.” “Don’t mention it. I was going this way anyway.”

“Thanks a lot for looking after the kids.” “It’s my pleasure. They’re always good.”

“Thanks Rick. I couldn’t have done it without your help.” “No problem, man.”