Mya Mosley
11 min + fun quiz
Learning French
If you’ve ever been to France (or plan to go), you’ve probably heard that the French appreciate good manners. It’s true!
A well-placed “merci” can brighten someone’s day, while forgetting to say it might earn you the look. You know the one.
Plus, learning to say “thank you” properly in French doesn’t just help you sound polite — it helps you connect with people, show respect for the culture, and avoid awkward moments at the café when the waiter brings your croissant.
And let’s be honest: “merci” is great, but wouldn’t it be nice to have a few more tricks up your sleeve?
Let’s start with the essentials
These are your everyday, go-to ways of saying thank you.
Merci
[mehr-see]
The Classic “Thank You“. Short, sweet, and always appropriate.
Use it anytime — buying a baguette, getting directions, or receiving compliments on your impeccable French.
Merci beaucoup
[mehr-see boh-koo]
Thank You Very Much. Add a little extra flavor with beaucoup. Perfect when you really mean it or want to sound extra polite.
Merci infiniment
[mehr-see an-fee-nee-mahn]
Thanks a million / Infinitely thankful.
A beautifully expressive way to show deep gratitude. Use it when merci beaucoup isn’t quite enough, and you want to sound extra appreciative.
Time to spice things up! These phrases will make your gratitude stand out.
| French Phrase | English Meaning |
|---|---|
|
Un grand merci
|
A big thank you |
|
Mille mercis
|
Thanks a thousand times |
|
Merci du fond du cœur
|
Thanks from the bottom of my heart |
|
Merci de tout cœur
|
Thank you with all my heart |
|
Dieu merci!
|
Thank God! |
When in doubt, go formal — especially in professional settings or with people you don’t know well.
Je vous remercie
[zhuh voo ruh-mehr-see]
I thank you (formal). Sounds very polished in emails or formal speeches.
Avec tous mes remerciements
[ah-veck too meh ruh-mer-see-mahn]
With all my thanks. A lovely phrase to use at the end of formal letters.
💼 Pro Tip:
Use these in job applications, client emails, or when addressing someone older or in a position of authority.
Want to sound like a true local? Try these!
Cimer
[see-mair]
Slang for “thanks“.
Yep, it’s merci backwards.
Use it with friends, not your boss!
Merci à toi
[mehr-see ah twah]
Thank you (to you). Adds a personal touch. It’s the informal version.
You use it when talking to friends, family, or people you’re close with (casual, one person).
Merci à vous
[mehr-see ah voo]
Thank you (to you) – is more formal or polite. For groups, or when you want to show respect to someone you don’t know well, like a teacher, client, or older person.
🎉 Fun Fact:
French slang evolves fast. You might also hear merki in texting or memes!
Gratitude is a two-way street!
| French Phrase | English Meaning |
|---|---|
|
De rien
|
You're welcome |
|
Je vous en prie
|
Formal, "You're welcome" |
|
Pas de quoi
|
No problem |
|
Avec plaisir
|
My pleasure |
Think you’ve mastered the art of saying “thank you” in French? Put your knowledge to the test with our quick quiz! Spot the correct phrases and see if you can get a perfect score. Ready? Let’s go!
Gratitude is a beautiful thing — and in French, it’s an art form.
The French don’t just say merci and call it a day. Depending on the moment, the relationship, and even the region, they’ll adjust their words to hit just the right note of politeness or warmth.
Let’s explore how to fine-tune your “thank you” to suit different situations:
Merci beaucoup
Friendly yet respectful, this works perfectly when thanking the server for your café crème or that extra crispy croissant.
Deeply heartfelt, these are your go-to choices to show genuine appreciation.
Professional and polished, this is ideal for emails, presentations, or thanking colleagues in meetings.
Short, sweet, and perfectly polite for everyday encounters.
A warm and gracious response that keeps the positive energy flowing.
Merci d’avance
Common in written requests, it shows both courtesy and optimism.
Whether you have questions about our language courses or simply seek guidance on the best program for your language learning journey, our team is here to assist you.
Mastering “thank you” is just the beginning. Our personalized French lessons will help you build confidence, expand your vocabulary, and speak naturally in any situation.
