When someone thanks us, it’s almost like an instinct to reply with the usual “you’re welcome”. This is something we’ve learned from our parents. But repeating the same response could come to sound a little hollow and, well, boring. Which is why it’s essential to learn different ways to say the same thing.
That’s the great thing about the English language – it offers up almost limitless possibilities in terms of what can be said. Just as there are different ways to say “hello” in English, saying “you’re welcome” also has different variations which you can use in different situations.
As we all know, saying “you’re welcome” is good etiquette which gives the impression that you are polite and gracious. But choosing the right words involves considering the nature of your relationship with the person and the situation. So read on and explore the many ways you can respond when someone thanks you.
How to say “you’re welcome” in formal situations
As you will notice, many of the formal variants of “you’re welcome” below imply that some form of service has been completed or provided. That is because you’ll most likely hear and use these expressions in places such as offices, restaurants, banks, public buildings and other locations where people are performing a designated job.
- My pleasure / the pleasure is all mine
- I’m happy to help
- I’m glad to help
- I’m happy to be of assistance
- Happy to be of service
- No thanks are necessary
Examples:
Person A: Thank you for assisting us in the meeting yesterday.
Person B: I’m happy to be of assistance.
Person A: Thank you for the great work that you’re doing for the company.
Person B: My pleasure.
Person A: Thank you for guiding me in reaching my monthly quota.
Person B: No thanks are necessary.
How to say “you’re welcome” in informal situations
In more informal settings, you notice that words become shorter and appear more casual or friendlier. These alternatives are commonly used in everyday interactions such as helping somebody on the street, lending something to a friend or letting someone in front of you when queuing.
- It was nothing
- No problem / Not a problem
- It’s no trouble
- Anytime
- Sure / Sure thing
- Don’t worry about it / Don’t mention it
- No big deal
- Just returning the favour
- You’d do the same for me
Examples:
Person A: Thanks for the coffee.
Person B: No problem.
Person A: Thanks for letting me borrow your pen.
Person B: Anytime.
Person A: Thanks for dropping by.
Person B: It’s no trouble.
Slang way of saying “you’re welcome”
Australians sure have a unique way of communicating and are known to be even more casual when speaking.
When someone says “thank you”, Aussies don’t always reply with the usual “you’re welcome”, instead they respond by saying “no worries”. Another alternative is “no dramas”.
Example:
Person A: Thanks for firing up the barbie, mate.
Person B: No worries!
Make a Commitment Today to Improve your English!
Sometimes we tend to get so accustomed to using the same words over and over again. This can be particularly true for non-native English speakers since the first few words that they learn are the typical “hello”, “thank you”, and “you’re welcome”. But with professional tutoring and lessons, you can easily build up your vocabulary and phrases, so that you sound like a native in no time!
Here at ESL Tutoring Services, we are passionate about helping our clients reach their full potential by helping them to take their English to the next level.
To learn more about how our experienced English tutors can help you, visit us on our website here, send us an email at info@esltutoringservices.com or call on 1300 137 186.
You’re welcome!
