The most commonly used phrases for expressing gratitude are “arigatou gozaimasu” and “arigatou gozaimashita (past tense).” On casual occasions people shorten this to “arigatou.” Besides “arigatou,” when you’ve dropped something and it is picked up by somebody else, it’s common to use the apologetic expressions “sumimasen” or “suimasen.” Despite having received a delightful gift, you might say “warui ne.” This is to express gratitude for their thoughtful consideration as well as your thanks. This is also used when somebody has done something for you, for example as a response to the phrase “sentaku shitoita yo” (I’ve done your laundry). “Thank you” has been incorporated into Japanese, and is often used among friends and close relations. The phrase “doumo” is an abbreviation of “doumo arigatou” (the arigatou part has been removed) and also implies gratitude. However, if you use this phrase on its own, even if you’re speaking to somebody close to you, it’s likely to create a rude impression, so you should watch your tone when you use it. Adding “ne” at the end of sentence – as in “arigato ne,” “gomen ne,” and “warui ne” – has a softening effect. The words “tasukatta” (when you are helped by someone) and “gochisousama” (when you are offered a meal) convey gratitude as well as thanks. Standard polite conversation / Casual expressions You left a pen in the conference room. Is that right? Thank you for letting me know. I put it on your desk. That’s so kind of you. Thank you.