Is a “thank you” in order?
On a daily basis, we’re inundated with reasons to thank the people around us. Maybe someone held the elevator for you while you were running late, the barista was kind despite the crowd in the coffee shop, or your colleague lets you know they did the legwork to help you get started on a particularly tricky project.
We’re lucky to have so many reasons to say “thanks” every day, but sometimes we need some new words and expressions to adequately express the gratitude we feel.
Here are 10 alternatives that are perfect for sharing your thanks and appreciation in every kind of setting.
1. I’m so grateful.
Thanks is an expression of gratitude, so cut to the chase. Tell someone you’re grateful for whatever way in which they’ve helped you, and go into detail about exactly what they did to personalize your message.
2. I appreciate it.
It’s always nice to feel appreciated. When someone does something to help you out or make your life easier, be sure to say how much it means to you that they went out of their way to help.
3. Thanks for your hard work on this.
Don’t just offer colleagues and collaborators a run-of-the-mill thanks. Letting them know how much you appreciate the specific efforts they’ve made will help them feel seen and create a positive working relationship.
4. I couldn’t have done it without you.
If you couldn’t have made something happen without another person’s help, then they should definitely know that! Don’t hold back in telling them how vital they are.
5. I owe you one.
Sometimes the only way to truly appreciate a favor is by returning it. This “thank you” alternative lets them know you plan to do just that.
6. Much obliged.
Obliged means “appreciative or grateful.” It’s especially handy for a quick but courteous email or text sign-off that still expresses thanks in a meaningful way.
7. Thanks for having my back.
Sometimes the best thing someone else can do for you is be in your corner when you need support. Thanking them for being there is a way to let them know how much it means to you.
8. Please accept my deepest gratitude.
Giving thanks in a more formal setting? This one is perfect for a professional letter, important speech, or in a thank-you note.
9. I have to give credit where it’s due.
Let’s be honest: we all love getting credit for the good things we do. Credit is “commendation or honor given for some action, quality, etc.” When we thank someone, we’re giving them their earned credit for something they did, and it’s a gesture we should make often.
10. That’s so kind of you.
One way of thanking someone is telling them how their gesture felt to you: kind. By telling someone how kind they’ve been, you let them know you see their favors as coming from the heart.
