Scroll June 18th. 2020

Okagesama  (おかげさま) Arigatou (ありがとう)

​Okagesama is a polite form of the word okage, and is often used as an expression of gratitude. It is used when one receives kindness or benefits from another person’s actions. 

​The original form of okage was kage, which literally means shadow; meaning the power of a shadow, which can be implied as the unseen power of the gods and buddhas. Later the o prefix was added changing kage to okage.

“Okagesama arigatou” connotes a humble gratitude that you owe to someone; whether it might be for another’s kindness, assistance, information, or friendship. As a routine greeting, for instance, Japanese often say “Okagesamade genkidesu,” which means “thanks to the blessing we have, we are fine.”