Saying “thank you” is one of the first things you probably learnt in English. But here’s the thing – in British culture, politeness and appreciation are a big deal! We don’t just say “thank you” once and move on. We use a variety of expressions to show different degrees of gratitude: from casual thanks to heartfelt appreciation.
So, if you’ve been relying only on “thank you”, it might sound a little basic or repetitive. Luckily, there are plenty of other expressions you can use to sound more natural, polite, and genuinely appreciative.
In this lesson, I’ll show you 10 alternatives to “thank you” that we actually use in everyday British English. 🇬🇧
Let’s dive in! ✨
1. Cheers 🥂
You’ll hear this one a lot in the UK. “Cheers” is a casual, quick way of saying thanks. Yes, it’s also what we say when clinking glasses during a toast – but in everyday English, it’s used all the time to mean “thank you.”
Example conversation:
Person A: “Here’s the coffee you ordered.”
Person B: “Cheers!”
2. You shouldn’t have 🎁
We say this when someone goes out of their way to do something nice – like buying us a present. It shows surprise and gratitude at the same time.
Example conversation:
Person A: “I’ve got you a present for your birthday.”
Person B: “Aw, you shouldn’t have!”
3. I really appreciate it 🙏
A sincere and thoughtful way to acknowledge someone’s kindness, effort, or help.
Example conversation:
Person A: “Don’t worry, I can cover your shift tomorrow.”
Person B: “Uh, I really appreciate it.”
4. You’re too kind 💐
This one works especially well when responding to a compliment or kind words.
Example conversation:
Person A: “You look fantastic in that dress!”
Person B: “Oh, you’re too kind!”
5. I can’t thank you enough 💖
Used when someone helps us during a difficult or important moment – and a simple “thank you” just doesn’t feel strong enough.
Example conversation:
Person A: “Thanks for picking me up after my car broke down.”
Person B: “I can’t thank you enough.”
6. Thank you – it means a lot 🌟
Yes, this one still includes “thank you”, but the extra phrase gives it more warmth and sincerity.
Example conversation:
Person A: “We couldn’t have completed this project without you.”
Person B: “Thank you – it means a lot.”
7. You’re a star ⭐
One of my personal favourites! We use it when someone makes our life easier by helping us out.
Example conversation:
Person A: “You can borrow my laptop charger if you need it.”
Person B: “You’re a star!”
8. Thanks a lot 🙌
A very common way to express gratitude. Slightly stronger than a simple “thanks”, but still casual.
Example conversation:
Person A: “I picked up your lunch for you.”
Person B: “Thanks a lot.”
9.Thank you so much 🌸
Another everyday expression that adds warmth and enthusiasm to your thanks.
Example conversation:
Person A: “I helped tidy your desk while you were out.”
Person B: “Thank you so much.”
10. Thanks a million 🍀
A phrase that’s particularly popular in Ireland, but also widely understood in the UK. It’s cheerful and emphatic – great for showing big appreciation.
Example conversation:
Person A: “I managed to get those tickets for you.”
Person B: “Thanks a million!”
So there you have it – 10 expressions you can use instead of just saying “thank you.” Whether you’re being casual with friends or showing sincere gratitude, these phrases will help you sound more natural and polite in British English.
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