Thank you or thanks are our default ways of expressing gratitude, from everyday sign-offs on our emails to acknowledging a small kindness like someone holding open a door for you. But there are some moments when thank you hardly seems big enough. If you’re stuck on a way to truly express how grateful you are, here are some fresh ideas on how to say thank you.
"Thanks a million!" or "Thanks a bunch!"
These cheerful ways of saying thank you are best used when you’re positively excited about something someone’s done for you – like picked up a work shift at the last minute or surprised you with concert tickets to a sold-out show. Adding superlatives isn’t disingenuous in this case; it simply shows you’re overwhelmingly happy that someone has swept in and made your day. If these feel a little too spirited for you, a simple “Thanks so much” or “Thanks a ton” has a similar effect.
"Heartfelt thanks" or "Sincere thanks"
Sure ,all thanks are felt to some degree, but adding a qualifier that speaks to the heart is a great way to show a more somber appreciation for someone. These words imply you’ve spent an extra moment to really reach out and thank this person – and it’ll be felt on the other end.
"I’m so grateful" or "I’m eternally grateful"
When you really want to tell someone what they mean to you, or how big an impact what they’ve done will have on you, expressing gratitude, or citing how grateful you are, speaks beyond the actual task or thing you’re saying thank you for. It’s almost a way of citing how lucky or blessed you are to have this person’s kindness in your life.
"You rock" or "You’re the best"
Someone lending a hand as a one-off thing is worthy of a thank you. But someone consistently being there for you? That’s a perfect time to highlight how amazing they are in general. Be specific about what they rock at and you’ll be sure to put a smile on their face.
"I can’t thank you enough"
Scratching your head on a way to impress how important this thank you is? Own up to the fact the words thank you simply aren’t enough, or can’t be said enough to express your gratitude. “Words cannot describe how thankful I am…” is another way to get this expression of extreme thankfulness across.
"I appreciate" or "My sincere appreciation"
If you want to speak to someone’s helpfulness, one smart thing to do is highlight what you appreciate about them, or what they’ve done for you. Showing appreciation or admiration is a great way to personalize your thank you.
"I owe you one" or "I’ll get you back"
Some people don’t like the feeling of being indebted to someone else. While it’s always polite to say thanks, feel free to tack on a promise to return a kindness to express your appreciation.