Wondering how to say thank you in French?
As someone who is fluent in French and lives in France, I know that expressing gratitude is an important part of the culture. Whether it’s to show appreciation or politeness, knowing how to say “thank you” in French is a great asset to have.
In this post, I’ll share with you all the different ways to say “thank you” in French. I’ve even added some helpful tips on how each phrase should be used so that you can sound like a local!
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Table of Contents
- 50 Useful Ways to Say Thank You in French
- FAQs About Expressing Appreciation in French
- Conclusion: How to Say Thank You in French
50 Useful Ways to Say Thank You in French
Whether you’re visiting France or moving here, knowing how to express your appreciation will be invaluable. Fortunately, there are many ways to do this. From the formal “je vous remercie” to the more informal “merci bien,” here is a list of 50 useful ways that you can say “thank you” in French.
Now, let’s look at these different phrases and learn how to use them in everyday conversations!
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1. Je vous remercie
Pronunciation: juh voo ruh-mair-see
“Je vous remercie” is one of the most formal ways to say “thank you” in French. It translates as “I thank you,” and it’s typically used when expressing gratitude for someone else’s efforts or help.
It can be used as a stand-alone saying or combined with other phrases such as “je vous remercie de votre aide” (I thank you for your help).
2. Je te remercie
Pronunciation: juh tuh ruh-mair-see
“Je te remercie” is one of the more informal ways to say “thank you” in French. It translates as “I thank you,” but it’s usually used when expressing gratitude to someone you know.
It can be used on its own, but it also works well when combined with other phrases like “je te remercie pour ton aide” (I thank you for your help).
3. Merci
Pronunciation: mair-see
The phrase “merci” is one of the most common ways to say “thank you” in French. It’s a simple, yet powerful expression that can be used in many different contexts.
Whether you’re at the office or speaking casually with friends, “merci” always conveys politeness and respect.
4. Non, merci
Pronunciation: no, mair-see
“Non, merci” is one of the most useful phrases to know in French. It translates as “no, thank you,” and it’s used to politely decline an offer or request. Whether you’re declining a drink at a party or refusing someone’s help, “non, merci” is the perfect way to show respect while still making your point.
I always say “non, merci” when declining something because it’s more polite than just saying “non.”
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5. Oui, merci
Pronunciation: wee, mair-see
“Oui, merci” is a polite and straightforward way to say “yes, thank you” in French. It’s appropriate to use when accepting an offer or showing gratitude. For instance, if someone offers you a croissant, you could reply, “oui, merci,” to express your acceptance.
Useful Tip: “Oui” is one of the many ways to say “yes” in French.
6. Merci, mon ami/amie
Pronunciation: mair-see, moan ah-mi
“Merci, mon ami/amie” is another way to say “thank you” in French. This phrase is particularly useful when expressing gratitude and appreciation for a friend. In fact, it translates as “thank you, my friend.”
As an example, if your best friend gives you a gift, you could say “merci, mon ami/amie.”
Useful Tip: Ami and amie have the same pronunciation. Ami is used for male friends while amie is for female friends.
7. Merci, Madame/Monsieur
Pronunciation: mair-see, ma-dam/meuh-sieur
Saying “thank you” in French is an important part of showing politeness and respect. One way to do this is by using the phrase “merci, madame/monsieur.” It shows appreciation for someone’s help or kindness in a formal manner. It’s used when speaking with strangers or people who are older than you.
8. Merci à toi
Pronunciation: mair-see ah twa
If you want to express your deepest gratitude and appreciation for someone, “merci à toi” is the perfect phrase to use. This expression translates as “thank you (to) you,” making it a great way to show how much their kindness means. It’s appropriate in informal settings and should never be used formally.
9. Merci à vous
Pronunciation: mair-see ah voo
The phrase “merci à vous” is a polite and formal way to say “thank you” in French. It translates to “thank you (to) you,” which makes it perfect for expressing appreciation in more formal contexts. It can also be used when you are thanking more than one person.
Useful Tip: Oddly enough, this expression can also be used as a reply to “thank you.”
10. Merci à tous
Pronunciation: mair-see ah tooss
The phrase “merci à tous” is a great way to say thank you in French when addressing a group of people. It translates to “thank you (to) all,” and is appropriate for formal and informal settings alike.
11. Merci, ma belle
Pronunciation: mair-see, mah-bell
The phrase “merci, ma belle” is an old-fashioned way to express gratitude in French. It translates to “thank you, my beautiful.” It’s rarely used today and has sexist undertones, so I would avoid using this expression at all costs.
12. Merci pour tout
Pronunciation: mair-see por too
The French phrase “merci pour tout” is often used to express gratitude for a variety of situations. It means “thank you for everything” and can be used to thank someone for their help or kindness in any context.
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13. Je tenais à vous dire merci pour tout
Pronunciation: juh tuh-nay ah vous deer mair-see por too
“Je tenais à vous dire merci pour tout” is a French phrase that conveys deep gratitude and thanks. It translates to “I wanted to thank you for everything” and is often used when someone has done something special for you.
Compared to the phrase, “merci pour tout,” this expression is very formal.
14. Merci pour le repas
Pronunciation: mair-see por le ruh-pa
Saying “merci pour le repas” is one of the most useful phrases to know in French. It translates to “thank you for the meal,” and can be used after eating at someone’s house or a restaurant.
In France, it’s very common to go over to someone’s house for dinner, so “merci pour le repas” will, no doubt, come in handy.
15. Merci pour le délicieux repas
Pronunciation: mair-see por le di-le-ci-euh ruh-pa
The phrase “merci pour le délicieux repas ” is a great way to express your appreciation for a delicious meal. It translates to “thank you for the delicious meal,” and adds something a little extra to “merci pour le repas.”
Not only does this phrase show good manners, but it also lets people know how much you enjoyed their cooking!
16. Merci d’être venu
Pronunciation: mair-see deh-tra va-new
“Merci d’être venu” is a French phrase that means “thank you for coming” or “thanks for being here.” It is used to express appreciation for someone who has gone out of their way to come to an event or gathering.
17. Merci d’avance
Pronunciation: mair-see dav-onse
The French phrase “merci d’avance” is a great way to show politeness and gratitude in any situation. It translates to “thank you in advance,” and can be used to thank someone ahead of time for their kindness. It’s also commonly used in business settings to express thanks for taking the time to meet with someone or provide help.
18. Je vous remercie par avance
Pronunciation: juh voo ruh-mair-see par av-onse
“Je vous remercie par avance” is a more formal expression to thank someone in advance. It translates to “I thank you in advance” and the “vous” adds that extra formality. You wouldn’t use this phrase with friends or someone you know.
19. Dieu merci
Pronunciation: dyoe mair-see
The French phrase “Dieu merci” is an expression of gratitude and appreciation. It translates to “thank God,” and is often used in situations where someone has been spared from danger.
For example, if a person avoids getting hurt in an accident, they may say “Dieu merci” afterward.
It can also be used as an exclamation when something fortunate happens unexpectedly.
20. Merci de me répondre
Pronunciation: mair-see duh me ray-pon-dra
The phrase “merci de me répondre” is a polite and formal way to thank someone for responding to you in French. It translates to “thank you for answering me.”
You can use it in conversations as well as emails and letters.
21. Remerciez-le/la de ma part
Pronunciation: ruh-mair-see le(la) duh ma pare
The phrase “remerciez-le/la de ma part” is a great way to express gratitude on someone else’s behalf in French. It means “thank him/her from me.” And it can be used when you want to thank someone for something but aren’t able to do it yourself. It’s commonly used in business settings where expressing appreciation is important.
Useful Tip: In this scenario, le means him while la means her.
22. Nous sommes heureux de faire affaire avec vous
Pronunciation: new somez (h)-eu-r-eu duh fair ah-fair ah-vec voo
The French phrase “nous sommes heureux de faire affaire avec vous” is an expression of gratitude. It translates to “we are happy to do business with you,” and is often used in formal business settings.
It shows that you value the relationship between you and your partner or client.
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22. Je vous prie d’agréer madame/monsieur mes salutations distinguées
Pronunciation: juh vous pri ma-dam/meuh-sieur meh sa-lu-ta-syon dis-tin-gay
“Je vous prie d’agréer madame/monsieur mes salutations distinguées” is used to politely express gratitude. It translates to “I beg you to accept, Madam/Sir, my distinguished greetings.” This statement is only used in formal business letters or emails. And you’ll never use or hear this phrase in a conversation.
I sign all my work-related emails with this phrase. So, I recommend keeping it handy if you plan on working for a French company.
23. Comme c’est gentil de votre part
Pronunciation: come say jan-ti duh vo-truh par
“Comme c’est gentil de votre part” is a French phrase used to express gratitude and appreciation. It translates to “how kind of you,” and it’s used when someone does something nice for you or helps you out in some way. But because it uses the word votre, you should only use it in formal settings.
24. C’est vraiment gentil de votre part
Pronunciation: say jan-ti duh vo-truh par
“C’est vraiment gentil de votre part” is a French phrase used to express appreciation. It translates to “it’s really kind of you,” and it’s often used in formal settings when someone you don’t know helps you.
25. C’est gentil de ta part
Pronunciation: say jan-ti duh ta par
“C’est gentil de ta part” is the informal version of “c’est vraiment gentil de votre part.” It’s often used when someone you know does something nice for you or helps you out in some way.
26. C’est gentil de m’aider
Pronunciation: say jan-ti duh may-day
“C’est gentil de m’aider” is an informal way to express appreciation for someone who has gone out of their way to help you. It translates to “it’s kind of you to help me.”
27. C’est très aimable à vous
Pronunciation: say tray ah-mee-uh-buhl ah voo
“C’est très aimable à vous” means “it’s very kind of you” or “that was really nice of you.” It can be used in formal settings or informal situations where you’re thanking more than one person.
28. Ça me fait tellement plaisir
Pronunciation: sah meh fay tel-mo(n) pleh-seer
“Ça me fait tellement plaisir” is a polite way to say “thank you” in French. It translates to “it makes me so happy,” and conveys warmth and joy, making it perfect for expressing your heartfelt thanks.
29. Je vous suis tellement reconnaissant(e)
Pronunciation: juh voo swee tel-mo(n) re-ko-nay-san (re-ko-nay-sant)
“Je vous suis tellement reconnaissant(e)” is a French phrase used to show genuine appreciation. This phrase translates as “I am so grateful to you.” And it conveys a sense of sincere thanks for something someone has done for you. It is often used in formal settings but can be used in more casual contexts.
Useful Tip: Reconnaissant (masculine) and reconnaissante (feminine) are not pronounced the same. The “t” in reconnaissant is silent.
30. Je vous suis extrêmement reconnaissant(e)
Pronunciation: juh voo swee x-tray-mo(n) re-ko-nay-san (re-ko-nay-sant)
“Je vous suis extrêmement reconnaissant(e)” is used to express deep gratitude. It translates to “I am extremely grateful” and it’s used only in formal settings.
This phrase conveys sincere appreciation for someone who has gone out of their way to help you.
31. Comment vous remercier?
Pronunciation: como voo ruh-mair-see
“Comment vous remercier” is a French phrase that means “How can I thank you?” It’s a great way to express gratitude in formal settings.
Whether you are thanking someone for their help or for being there when needed, this phrase is an excellent way to show sincerity.
32. Je ne sais pas comment vous remercier
Pronunciation: juh nuh say pa como voo ruh-mair-see
“Je ne sais pas comment vous remercier” conveys deep gratitude and appreciation. It translates to “I don’t know how to thank you” and is often used in formal settings when someone has gone out of their way to help you. It’s perfect for expressing your gratitude in an especially meaningful way.
33. Je n’ai pas les mots pour vous dire merci
Pronunciation: juh nay pa les mo por voo deer mair-see
“Je n’ai pas les mots pour vous dire merci” is a French phrase that conveys deep gratitude and appreciation. It translates to “I don’t have the words to thank you.” It’s used in situations when your thanks go beyond what can be said with mere words. This phrase is often used in formal settings and is rarely used casually.
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34. Je vous adresse mes plus vifs remerciements
Pronunciation: juh vooz ah-dress may p-lu veef ruh-mair-see-mo(n)
“Je vous adresse mes plus vifs remerciements” is a French phrase used to express deep and sincere gratitude. It translates to “I address my most deep thanks,” and can be used in any formal scenario.
It has the a very similar connotation to “je vous remercie de tout mon coeur.”
35. Je tiens à te remercier chaleureusement
Pronunciation: juh ah ruh-mair-see cha-ler-uze-mo(n)
“Je tiens à te remercier chaleureusement” is used to express deep gratitude for someone you know. In English, it means “I want to thank you warmly” or “I want to express my heartfelt thanks.”
While this is a very polite way to say, “thank you,” you wouldn’t use this phrase in a formal setting.
36. Comment vous montrer ma reconnaissance?
Pronunciation: como voo mah mo-trey mah re-ko-nay-san
“Comment vous montrer ma reconnaissance?” is a French phrase used to express profound gratitude. It means “How can I show my appreciation?” and it’s often used in formal settings when someone has done something special for you.
This phrase conveys a sense of sincere thanks, as well as an acknowledgment that words alone cannot convey.
37. Avec tous mes remerciements
Pronunciation: ah-vec too meh re-mair-si-man
“Avec tous mes remerciements” is a French phrase used to express deep appreciation. It translates to “with all my thanks,” and it’s often used in formal settings when someone has gone out of their way to help you.
38. Mci
Mci is a French acronym meaning “merci.” It’s used as an informal way of expressing gratitude in writing. It’s like the English “thx.” While not considered proper etiquette in a professional setting, it’s often used among peers.
39. Cimer
Pronunciation: sea-mer
Cimer is French slang for “thank you.” It can be used in casual settings such as texting or talking to your friends. Keep in mind that you should never use this at the office.
Useful Tip: French is full of slang, so, if you listen carefully, you’ll probably hear this phrase used a lot.
40. Merki
Pronunciation: mer-key
Merki is a French slang word for “thank you” that’s used in casual settings. It comes from a comedy sketch by Elie Semoun.
If you want to show off your knowledge of French culture, this phrase will do just that.
How to Say Thank You Very Much in French
Expressing gratitude in French is an excellent way to show appreciation. And saying “thank you very much” adds that extra touch of politeness.
Let’s take a look at how to say “thank you very much” in French.
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41. Merci beaucoup
Pronunciation: mair-see bo-kou
“Merci beaucoup” is one of the most common ways to say “thank you very much” in French. It’s a versatile expression that can be used in both formal and informal settings. When said with sincerity, “merci beaucoup” conveys genuine appreciation for someone’s kindness.
I prefer to say, “merci beaucoup” rather than just “merci.” It adds that extra touch of politeness that’s always appreciated.
And, if you’re thinking about moving overseas to France, you’ll use this phrase a lot!
42. Un immense merci
Pronunciation: euh(n) i-mans mair-see
Un immense merci is a French phrase that translates to “an immense thank you.” It’s used as an expression of deep appreciation for someone who has done something nice for you. This phrase conveys sincere thanks, and it can be used in both formal and informal settings.
43. Mille mercis
Pronunciation: meel mair-see
“Mille mercis” is a French phrase used to express profound appreciation. In English, it means “a thousand thanks.” But compared to the other options on this list, it isn’t used a lot.
44. Merci mille fois
Pronunciation: mair-see meel fwah
“Merci mille fois” is like “mille mercis.” It translates to “thank you a thousand times” and conveys a huge amount of gratitude. This phrase can be used in both formal and informal settings, but, again, it isn’t used that often.
45. Merci du fond du coeur
Pronunciation: mair-see due fo(n) due ker
“Merci du fond du coeur” is one of the most heartfelt ways to say “thank you very much” in French. It means “thanks from the bottom of my heart” and shows a deep level of appreciation.
You can use this phrase with friends, family, colleagues, and even strangers.
46. Je vous remercie de tout mon coeur
Pronunciation: juh voo ruh-mair-see duh too mo(n) ker
“Je vous remercie de tout mon coeur” conveys deep gratitude and means “I thank you from the bottom of my heart.” This phrase is used in formal settings when you want to show your appreciation in an especially meaningful way.
Unlike “merci du fond du coeur,” you wouldn’t use these phrase with friends or family.
47. Un grand merci
Pronunciation: euh(n) gra(n) mair-see
“Un grand merci” means “a big thank you.” It’s as polite as “merci beaucoup” and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
When said with sincerity, this phrase is sure to brighten someone’s day.
48. Merci infiniment
Pronunciation: mair-see an-finee-mon
“Merci infiniment” is a heartfelt way to say, “thank you very much.” It can be used in both formal and informal settings, making it the perfect way to express your sincere appreciation.
Useful Tip: This phrase is not as common as “merci beaucoup,” so it shouldn’t be your go-to expression.
49. Merci bien
Pronunciation: mair-see be-unh
Merci bien is a French phrase used to express gratitude and appreciation. It translates to “thank you very much” or “thanks a lot,” but it’s not as popular as “merci beaucoup.”
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50. Vraiment merci
Pronunciation: vray-mon mair-see
“Vraiment merci” conveys sincere gratitude. It translates to “truly thank you” or “really thank you.”
You can use this phrase in any setting, although it’s most used with someone you know.
FAQs About Expressing Appreciation in French
Do you say merci or merci beaucoup?
While you can say both, you should opt for “merci beaucoup.” It conveys a more sincere appreciation and is very polite.
Do French people say merci bien?
Yes, French people say “merci bien.” It’s a phrase used to express gratitude, translating to “thanks a lot,” but it’s not as common as “merci beaucoup.”
How do I respond to Merci beaucoup?
If someone says, “merci beaucoup,” you would respond with “je vous en prie,” which means “you’re welcome.”
Can I say merci a vous?
Yes, you can say “merci à vous.” It’s a formal way to say, “thank you,” but can also be used to thank more than one person.
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Conclusion: How to Say Thank You in French
Saying “thank you” in French can be a great way to show politeness. Whether it’s “un immense merci” or “je vous remercie,” showing gratitude is sure to brighten someone’s day. The best way to begin is to pick the phrases that are the easiest to pronounce and work through the list.
And once you’ve mastered how to show your appreciation, you can learn how to repond when someone says, “thank you”.
So, start practicing today!
Read More Articles About France
I hope you enjoyed my post about how to say “thank you” in French and found it useful. Here are some other articles that I think you might find interesting.
- How to Say My Name Is in French: 25 Useful Ways (+ Audio)
- How to Say Hello in French – 39 Easy Ways (with Audio)
- 21 Best Places to Live in France for Expats
