감사합니다 vs 고맙습니다
Korean word comparison
Listen to 감사합니다
Listen to 고맙습니다
| 감사합니다 | 고맙습니다 |
|---|---|
gam-SAH-ham-ni-da verb (polite/formal expression) | go-map-seum-ni-da verb (polite/formal expression) |
| Thank you; an expression of gratitude used politely | Thank you (polite, native-Korean form) |
How they differ
고맙습니다 uses native Korean vocabulary (고맙-) and often feels slightly warmer and more casual than the Sino-Korean 감사합니다; it is polite but less formal/honorific in tone. In very formal or highly deferential situations, 감사합니다 may be preferred for its more neutral/formal register.
When to use each
When to use 감사합니다: Use 감사합니다 when you need a neutral, formally polite or honorific expression of thanks (e.g., business, formal events, with elders or superiors).
When to use 고맙습니다: Use 고맙습니다 in everyday polite contexts when you want a slightly warmer, more personal tone while remaining respectful.
Side-by-side examples
- 도와주셔서 감사합니다.
(Thank you for helping me.) - 도와주셔서 고맙습니다.
(Thank you for helping me.)
Register & nuance: Polite and respectful but a bit less formal than 감사합니다; more native-feeling and common in everyday polite speech.