When interacting with Japanese people, whether in a personal or professional setting, you may often hear the word “arigato” (, pronounced “ah-ree-gah-toh”). This Japanese phrase is a polite way of saying “thank you,” and responding to it appropriately can make a significant difference in building relationships and showing respect for the culture. In this article, we will delve into the world of Japanese etiquette and explore the various ways to respond to “arigato.”
Understanding the Context of “Arigato”
Before we dive into the responses, it’s essential to understand the context in which “arigato” is used. In Japan, politeness and respect are deeply ingrained in the culture, and expressing gratitude is a significant part of daily interactions. “Arigato” is a formal way of saying “thank you,” and it’s commonly used in various situations, such as:
- When receiving something, like a gift or a favor
- When someone helps you or provides assistance
- When expressing appreciation for someone’s time or effort
- In formal settings, like business meetings or ceremonies
The Importance of Responding to “Arigato”
Responding to “arigato” is not only a matter of politeness but also a way to show respect and appreciation for the person who expressed gratitude. In Japan, not responding to “arigato” can be seen as impolite or ungrateful, which can damage relationships and create an awkward atmosphere.
Basic Responses to “Arigato”
Here are some basic responses to “arigato” that you can use in various situations:
- Dō itashi mashite (, pronounced “doh ee-tah-shee mah-shee-teh”): This is a polite way of saying “you’re welcome” or “it was nothing.” It’s a common response to “arigato” in formal and informal settings.
- Iie, dō itashi mashite (, pronounced “ee-eh, doh ee-tah-shee mah-shee-teh”): This response is similar to the previous one, but it adds a polite phrase “iie” (, pronounced “ee-eh”), which means “no” or “not at all.” It’s a way of saying “you’re welcome, it was nothing” while emphasizing that the favor or help was insignificant.
Responding to “Arigato” in Formal Settings
In formal settings, such as business meetings or ceremonies, it’s essential to use more formal language when responding to “arigato.” Here are some examples:
- Kokoro kara arigatou gozaimasu (, pronounced “koh-koh-roh kah-rah ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zah-ee-moss”): This response is a more formal way of saying “thank you from the bottom of my heart.” It’s a polite and respectful way to acknowledge someone’s gratitude in a formal setting.
- O-genki desu ka? (, pronounced “oh-geh-kee deh-soo kah”): This response is a polite way of asking “how are you?” or “are you well?” It’s a way of showing concern for the person who expressed gratitude and can help to build a positive relationship.
Responding to “Arigato” in Informal Settings
In informal settings, such as with friends or family, you can use more casual language when responding to “arigato.” Here are some examples:
- Dō itashi (, pronounced “doh ee-tah-shee”): This response is a more casual way of saying “you’re welcome” or “it was nothing.” It’s a common response to “arigato” in informal settings.
- Iie, dō itashi (, pronounced “ee-eh, doh ee-tah-shee”): This response is similar to the previous one, but it adds a polite phrase “iie” (, pronounced “ee-eh”), which means “no” or “not at all.” It’s a way of saying “you’re welcome, it was nothing” while emphasizing that the favor or help was insignificant.
Using Body Language to Respond to “Arigato”
In Japan, body language plays a significant role in communication, and responding to “arigato” is no exception. Here are some tips on using body language to respond to “arigato”:
- Bowing: Bowing is a traditional way of showing respect and gratitude in Japan. When responding to “arigato,” you can bow slightly to show appreciation and respect.
- Smiling: Smiling is a universal way of showing gratitude and appreciation. When responding to “arigato,” you can smile to show that you’re grateful for the person’s kindness.
- Making eye contact: Making eye contact is essential in Japanese communication, and responding to “arigato” is no exception. When responding to “arigato,” you can make eye contact with the person to show that you’re engaged and grateful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Responding to “Arigato”
When responding to “arigato,” there are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Not responding at all: Not responding to “arigato” can be seen as impolite or ungrateful. Make sure to respond with a polite phrase or gesture.
- Using the wrong language: Using the wrong language or tone can be seen as disrespectful. Make sure to use formal language in formal settings and informal language in informal settings.
- Not using body language: Not using body language can make your response seem insincere. Make sure to use bowing, smiling, and making eye contact to show gratitude and respect.
Conclusion
Responding to “arigato” is an essential part of Japanese etiquette, and it can make a significant difference in building relationships and showing respect for the culture. By using the right language, tone, and body language, you can respond to “arigato” in a way that is polite, respectful, and sincere. Remember to avoid common mistakes, such as not responding at all or using the wrong language, and to use body language to show gratitude and respect.
| Formal Response | Informal Response |
|---|---|
| Dō itashi mashite | Dō itashi |
| Iie, dō itashi mashite | Iie, dō itashi |
| Kokoro kara arigatou gozaimasu | O-genki desu ka? |
By following these tips and guidelines, you can respond to “arigato” in a way that is respectful, polite, and sincere. Remember that responding to “arigato” is not just about saying the right words, but also about showing gratitude and respect through body language and tone.
What is “Arigato” and its significance in Japanese culture?
“Arigato” is a Japanese term that translates to “thank you” in English. It is a polite expression used to show appreciation and gratitude towards someone. In Japanese culture, “arigato” is a significant word that reflects the values of respect, humility, and kindness. It is often used in various social interactions, from casual conversations to formal events.
The significance of “arigato” lies in its ability to convey a sense of gratitude and respect towards others. When someone says “arigato,” it is not just a simple expression of thanks, but also a way to acknowledge the other person’s effort, kindness, or generosity. In Japan, the use of “arigato” is deeply ingrained in the culture, and it is considered impolite not to respond appropriately when someone expresses gratitude.
How do you respond to “Arigato” in Japanese?
When someone says “arigato” to you, a common response is to say “dou itashi mashite” or “dou itashi mashita.” These phrases roughly translate to “you’re welcome” or “it was nothing.” However, the literal translation is more like “how polite of you to say so.” This response acknowledges the other person’s gratitude and shows appreciation for their kind words.
Another way to respond to “arigato” is to say “ie ie” or “doo itashi mashite arigatou gozaimasu.” The former is a more casual way of saying “you’re welcome,” while the latter is a more formal expression of gratitude. The key is to be sincere and genuine in your response, as the Japanese value politeness and respect in their interactions.
What is the difference between “Arigato” and “Arigatou gozaimasu”?
“Arigato” and “arigatou gozaimasu” are both expressions of gratitude in Japanese, but they differ in their level of formality. “Arigato” is a more casual way of saying “thank you,” while “arigatou gozaimasu” is a more formal expression of gratitude. The latter is often used in formal situations, such as business meetings or formal events.
The difference between the two expressions lies in their verb conjugation and the level of politeness they convey. “Arigatou gozaimasu” is a more polite and formal expression that is used to show respect and gratitude towards someone of higher status or authority. On the other hand, “arigato” is a more casual expression that is used in everyday conversations with friends or acquaintances.
Can I use “Arigato” in formal situations?
While “arigato” is a polite expression, it is generally considered too casual for formal situations. In formal events or business meetings, it is more appropriate to use “arigatou gozaimasu” or other more formal expressions of gratitude. Using “arigato” in formal situations may come across as too casual or even rude.
However, if you are interacting with someone who is familiar with you or in a more relaxed formal setting, “arigato” may be acceptable. The key is to gauge the level of formality and adjust your language accordingly. If you are unsure, it is always better to err on the side of caution and use a more formal expression of gratitude.
How do I respond to “Arigato” in a business setting?
In a business setting, it is best to respond to “arigato” with a formal expression of gratitude, such as “arigatou gozaimasu” or “dou itashi mashita.” These phrases convey a sense of respect and appreciation for the other person’s gratitude. You can also use more formal language, such as “kansha shite imasu” or “kansha shite orimasu,” which roughly translate to “I appreciate your gratitude.”
When responding to “arigato” in a business setting, it is also important to consider the level of formality and the relationship you have with the other person. If you are interacting with a client or someone of higher status, it is best to use more formal language and expressions of gratitude. On the other hand, if you are interacting with a colleague or someone you have a more familiar relationship with, you can use slightly less formal language.
Can I use “Arigato” with other Japanese phrases?
Yes, you can use “arigato” with other Japanese phrases to convey a sense of gratitude and appreciation. For example, you can say “arigato gozaimasu” (thank you very much) or “arigato ne” (thank you, informal). You can also use “arigato” with other phrases, such as “sumimasen” (excuse me) or “gomen nasai” (sorry), to convey a sense of politeness and respect.
Using “arigato” with other Japanese phrases can help you to convey a more nuanced sense of gratitude and appreciation. For example, saying “arigato gozaimasu” can convey a sense of deep gratitude, while saying “arigato ne” can convey a more casual sense of thanks. The key is to use the phrases in context and to be sincere in your expression of gratitude.
Is it necessary to bow when responding to “Arigato”?
In Japan, bowing is a common way to show respect and gratitude, and it is often used in conjunction with expressions of gratitude like “arigato.” However, it is not always necessary to bow when responding to “arigato.” The level of formality and the context of the situation will dictate whether a bow is necessary.
In general, if you are interacting with someone of higher status or authority, it is more likely that you will need to bow when responding to “arigato.” On the other hand, if you are interacting with someone of equal or lower status, a bow may not be necessary. The key is to be mindful of the cultural norms and to adjust your behavior accordingly.