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Definition thank you in British English

thank you interjection

interjection

Ways of saying thank you

the most usual way of saying thank you

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

a formal way of thanking someone for something they have done for you

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

a more informal way of saying thank you

used ironically, when someone has not helped you at all

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

used when someone gives you a present

used when making a formal speech

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

Examples:

Thanks a lot for all your help.

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

I am much obliged to you for your patience during the recent difficulties.

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

Cheers, Sara! I’ll buy the drinks next time.

‘You could always join us later.’ ‘Yeah, thanks a bunch, just when all the food is finished.’

‘Since you did all the housework and cooked dinner, I’ll clear up the dishes.’ ‘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 lovely present.

Ways of accepting thanks

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

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

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

Examples:

‘Thank you very much for the lift.’ ‘Don’t mention it. I was going this way anyway.’

‘Thanks a lot for looking after the children.’ ‘It’s my pleasure. I adore children.’

‘Cheers, Rory. I couldn’t have managed without your help.’ ‘No problem, mate.’

1

used for telling someone that you are grateful for something that they have said or done

Example

'That's a nice jacket.' 'Thank you.'

Example

Thank you for your kind words.

Example

Thank you for coming here today.

Synonyms and related words
2

used for politely accepting something that is offered to you

Example

'Would you like a cup of coffee?' 'Oh, thank you, that would be great.'

Synonyms and related words
2.1

used with 'no' for politely refusing something that is offered to you

Example

'Another glass of wine?' 'No, thank you.'

Synonyms and related words
3

used at the end of a sentence for telling someone firmly that you do not want something

Example

I can lift this on my own, thank you.

Synonyms and related words
Definition thank you in British English