Japanese phrase
ありがとうございました。 a ri ga tō go za i ma shi ta
Meaning
Thank you very much.
When to use it
A polite expression of sincere thanks. It is often used after receiving help, service, or hospitality and sounds warmer and more respectful than a casual thank-you.
Example dialogue
今日はありがとうございました。 kyō wa a ri ga tō go za i ma shi ta
Thank you very much for your help today.
こちらこそ、お疲れさまでした。 ko chi ra ko so o tsuka re sa ma de shi ta
Likewise. Thanks for your hard work.