ありがとうございます
arigatō gozaimasu
Thank you
A polite way to express thanks to someone you do not know well.
ONE CLEAR STEP AT A TIME
A little kindness — beginner Japanese lesson
Small phrases that go a long way. Learn three expressions with pronunciation guides, usage notes and a recall check.
Learning goal: recognise three useful expressions, explain their meanings, and recall them in a short check.
Read each phrase and its context. The app provides device-based audio if a Japanese voice is installed. The full written lesson below works without JavaScript.
Practise this lesson →すみません
sumimasen
Excuse me
Useful to get someone's attention, or to offer a small apology.
お願いします
onegai shimasu
Please
A polite request: use it after naming what you would like.
Try to recall the meaning
Read each Japanese phrase before opening its answer. You can also do the three-question interactive check in the lesson workspace.
ありがとうございます
Thank you · A polite way to express thanks to someone you do not know well.
すみません
Excuse me · Useful to get someone's attention, or to offer a small apology.
お願いします
Please · A polite request: use it after naming what you would like.
Your next clear step
Revisit the phrases once without the English meanings. Then continue with Nice to meet you.
Beginner roadmap · All foundation lessons · Beyond the foundations