thank-you: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
A1 (Extremely High)Universal, formal to informal, but predominantly polite/formal when used as a standalone expression.
Quick answer
What does “thank-you” mean?
A polite expression of gratitude, typically given in response to receiving a gift, favour, or service.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A polite expression of gratitude, typically given in response to receiving a gift, favour, or service.
The act or expression of acknowledging and appreciating something received; can also refer to a gesture, letter, or formal statement that expresses gratitude.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling: UK more commonly uses hyphen in noun/adjective forms ('thank-you note'). US often uses 'thank you' (open) or 'thank-you'. The phrase 'thanks a bunch' is sarcastic in US, less so in UK.
Connotations
Identical core polite connotations. UK usage may lean slightly more on written 'thank-you' notes for formal occasions.
Frequency
Extremely high frequency in both, with no significant variation.
Grammar
How to Use “thank-you” in a Sentence
say thank-you to [person] for [noun/gerund]send [person] a thank-you for [noun/gerund]owe [person] a thank-youVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “thank-you” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She forgot to thank him for the lift.
American English
- I need to thank you for your help yesterday.
adverb
British English
- (Not applicable as a distinct adverb; 'thank you' functions as an interjection.)
American English
- (Not applicable as a distinct adverb; 'thank you' functions as an interjection.)
adjective
British English
- She sent a lovely thank-you card after the wedding.
American English
- He gave a thank-you speech at the retirement party.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Standard in emails and letters: 'Thank you for your prompt reply.' Used to maintain professional rapport.
Academic
Used in acknowledgements sections of papers and theses to thank advisors, funders, etc.
Everyday
Ubiquitous in daily interactions for any small favour or service.
Technical
Not applicable as a technical term; used in standard interpersonal communication within technical fields.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “thank-you”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “thank-you”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “thank-you”
- Writing 'thankyou' as one word (non-standard).
- Overusing 'thank you' in a single exchange.
- Using 'thanks you' as a verb phrase (incorrect conjugation).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is considered a spelling error. The standard forms are the two-word interjection 'thank you' or the hyphenated noun/adjective 'thank-you'.
Yes, with appropriate intonation. For example, 'Oh, thank you for making such a mess!' expresses irritation, not gratitude.
'Thanks' is more informal and colloquial. 'Thank you' is the standard, polite form suitable for all situations, especially formal ones.
Common responses include: 'You're welcome', 'My pleasure', 'No problem', 'Don't mention it', or 'Not at all' (UK). The response acknowledges the politeness.
A polite expression of gratitude, typically given in response to receiving a gift, favour, or service.
Thank-you is usually universal, formal to informal, but predominantly polite/formal when used as a standalone expression. in register.
Thank-you: in British English it is pronounced /ˈθæŋk juː/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈθæŋk ˌjuː/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “thank your lucky stars”
- “I'll thank you to (do something) (often sarcastic)”
- “no thanks to (someone)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'thank' and 'you' linked by a hyphen like a handshake connecting two people.
Conceptual Metaphor
GRATITUDE IS A DEBT/PAYMENT ('I owe you a thank you'), GRATITUDE IS A GIFT ('I'd like to give you my thanks').
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the most common use of 'thank-you' as an adjective?