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ごちそうさま
gochisōsama
thank you for the meal
「ごちそうさま！」と手を合わせて言った。
She said 'Thank you for the meal!' and put her hands together.
formal
Expression of gratitude said after finishing a meal, acknowledging the food provided.
「全部おいしかったです。ごちそうさまでした！」
'Everything was delicious. Thank you for the meal!'
母が作ってくれた料理を食べ終わった後、ごちそうさまでしたと手を合わせた。
After finishing the meal my mother had cooked, I put my hands together and said 'Thank you for the meal.'
Used in both formal and informal settings. Often accompanied by a slight bow or the gesture of putting hands together (合掌).
Collocations
ごちそうさまでしたthank you for the mealおいしいごちそうさまdelicious meal (with thanks)
Synonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Cultural Context
Saying 'ごちそうさま' is a fundamental part of Japanese dining etiquette. It acknowledges the effort of the cook and the generosity of the host. Even in casual settings, omitting this phrase may be seen as impolite.
Gold Rule
When to Use
Always say 'ごちそうさま' after finishing a meal in Japan, whether at home, a restaurant, or someone else's house. It is appropriate for all ages and social settings.
Word Origin
Derived from the honorific prefix 'ご' + 'ちそう' (a polite form of '馳走' meaning 'feast' or 'treat') + 'さま' (honorific suffix). Originally an abbreviation of 'ご馳走様でした' (gochisōsama deshita), the polite phrase expressing gratitude for a meal.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in Japan after meals, regardless of who prepared the food. It is considered polite to say this even when dining alone. The phrase reflects gratitude not just to the cook but to all who contributed to the meal's preparation.
Word Breakdown
ご
honorific prefix
prefixちそう
feast/treat
rootさま
honorific suffix
suffix和英辞典