What's In A Thank You

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JOIN MARTIN is not affiliated with this company.

WHAT'S IN A THANK YOU: Well, here in the UK the weather outside is frightful but I have no warm and cosy fire to call delightful. Before I get into trouble for appalling paraphrases of Christmas songs I should explain in simple English that, as usual, the UK summer is damp, dreary and dull. Now, I like Autumn and I like Winter but think of those people who don't and you will soon understand those who become frustrated at the lack of light, heat and long summer days.

I've been learning many languages for a few months now and one thing I have noticed is that many languages have different words and phrases to say one thing: "Thank you".

It all depends on what someone has done for you. If they've held the door of your hotel open for you then a simple "Thank You" will suffice. But, if they pulled you and your family out of a burning car and then held the door of the hospital open whilst the paramedics rushed your nearest in dearest inside for urgent treatment, then you're going to have to use a whole other phrase to express your gratitude.

In some languages, there's a slang way of saying "Thank You" and a formal way of saying "Thank You" and you have to be careful which one you use as some people find the use of the slang "Thank you" vulgar.

That said, learning how to say "Thank you" in a foreign language is one of the best ways to make new friends and make a good impression on your trip, business meeting, conference etc. You express gratitude and you demonstrate that you've made the effort to learn how to be polite in a foreign language.

Once again, for reading this blog, I thank you.