How To Say ‘Please’ And ‘Thank You’ In 10 Languages

Didn’t your mother teach you to mind your manners? When you’re speaking to someone in another language, it can be more difficult to convey ideas. It’s crucial to be extra polite so nothing gets taken the wrong way. That’s why we’ve created this guide for saying “please” and “thank you” in 10 languages. You’re welcome. (You might also want to learn “yes” and “no” to accompany these.)

1. Spanish

Please: Por favor

Thank you: Gracias

2. French

Please: S’il vous/te plaît (formal/informal)

Thank you: Merci

3. German

Please: Bitte

Thank you: Danke

4. Italian

Please: Per favore

Thank you: Grazie

5. Portuguese

Please: Por favor

Thank you: Obrigado/a

6. Chinese

Please: Qǐng

Thank you: Xièxie nǐ

7. Arabic

Please: Min fádlak (to a man), Min fádlik (to a woman)

Thank you: Shukran

8. Russian

Please: Pazhalsta

Thank you: Spaseeba

9. Japanese

Please: Onegaishimasu

Thank you: Arigatou

10. Swedish

Please: Tack

Thank you: Tack (yes, really)