interjection

arigato

ah-ree-GAH-toh

Arigato (interjection) means "Thank you" — used in English to evoke or reference Japanese, often informally or humorously. Example: “Arigato! he said with a grin, bowing slightly as a joke.”

interjection

"Thank you" — used in English to evoke or reference Japanese, often informally or humorously.

"Arigato! he said with a grin, bowing slightly as a joke."

"The song's chorus repeats "arigato" over and over."

How to use arigato

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA borrowed Japanese word for "thank you," used in English mostly playfully or for effect.

When to use it

In everyday English writing this reads as a deliberate nod to Japanese culture, not standard vocabulary.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____! he said with a grin, bowing slightly as a joke.

Etymology

Borrowed from Japanese arigatou, meaning "thank you."

Origin: Japanese

Rhymes for arigato

gato Mato Cato nato vato Kato Sato Dato Plato tomato potato gelato

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Frequently asked questions

What does “arigato” mean?

The word “arigato” means "Thank you" — used in English to evoke or reference Japanese, often informally or humorously. In plain terms, a borrowed Japanese word for "thank you," used in English mostly playfully or for effect.

How do you pronounce “arigato”?

“Arigato” is pronounced ah-ree-GAH-toh (/ˌɑːɹiˈɡɑːtoʊ/ in IPA).

How do you use “arigato” in a sentence?

Here is “arigato” used in a sentence: “Arigato! he said with a grin, bowing slightly as a joke.”

What part of speech is “arigato”?

“Arigato” is an interjection.

Where does the word “arigato” come from?

The word “arigato” comes from Japanese. Borrowed from Japanese arigatou, meaning "thank you.".

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Vocabulary lists that include arigato:

Words with Japanese origins