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cảm ơn
/kam˧ˀ˨ʔ əːn˧/
thank you
Cảm ơn bạn đã giúp đỡ tôi.
Thank you for helping me.
formal
Used to express gratitude or thanks.
Cảm ơn cô giáo vì bài giảng bổ ích.
Thank you, teacher, for the insightful lesson.
Cảm ơn mọi người đã đến dự buổi tiệc.
Thank you everyone for coming to the party.
Commonly used in both spoken and written Vietnamese. Can be followed by 'rất nhiều' (very much) for emphasis: 'Cảm ơn rất nhiều!'
Collocations
cảm ơn rất nhiềuthank you very muchcảm ơn bạnthank you (informal)cảm ơn cô/chúthank you (polite, to an elder)
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Politeness in Vietnamese
Always use 'cảm ơn' when receiving help, gifts, or services. Omitting thanks may be perceived as rude, even in casual contexts.
Gold Rule
Gratitude is mandatory
In Vietnamese culture, expressing thanks is a social obligation. Even small favors warrant a 'cảm ơn'.
Word Origin
From 'cảm' (to feel) + 'ơn' (favor/grace), literally 'to feel favor'. The phrase reflects the cultural emphasis on gratitude as a reciprocal social gesture.
Usage Notes
In formal settings or with elders, adding a slight bow or hand gesture (palms together) enhances politeness. The phrase is universally understood across Vietnam.
Word Breakdown
cảm
to feel
rootơn
favor/grace
rootTừ Điển Việt Anh