French word

merci

Pronunciation

IPA/mɛʁsi/

Meaning

  • interjectionthank you

Example

Je te dis merci pour le cadeau.

I thank you for the gift.

Illustration for merci (thank you)

More examples

Merci beaucoup, ton aide m'a été précieuse.

Thank you very much, your help was invaluable to me.

Core concept

A compact acknowledgment that marks gratitude in an ordinary conversation.

Common phrases

  • merci beaucoup

    Thank you very much

  • merci d'avance

    Thank you in advance

Similar words

merci beaucoup: A brief expression of heartfelt thanks.
merci d'avance: Thanks expressed in advance for expected help.

Definition in French

Sert à exprimer sa reconnaissance de manière concise après un service, un geste aimable ou un cadeau.

Word origin

French inherited merci from Old French, where it referred to a favor or grace, with an earlier source in Latin merces, mercedis, meaning reward or payment.

Usage tips

  • Merci suits both informal and formal settings, while je vous remercie provides a more formal, complete expression of thanks.

Other meanings

  • thank-younoun

Related words

Word lists with this word