French Phrase
Je n'oublierai pas cette gentillesse.
Meaning
Literally, “I will not forget this kindness.” It is a polite way to tell someone that you will remember the good deed they have done for you, often said after a favor or a heartfelt gesture.
When to use
Use this sentence when you want to express lasting gratitude, especially after someone has helped you, given a gift, or shown you unexpected generosity. It works in both formal and informal settings, but the tone is slightly more formal than a simple “merci.”
✦Grammar Breakdown
Jen'oublieraipascettegentillesse.
Subject pronoun (Je)
The first‑person singular pronoun used before a verb.
Negation (n'…pas)
French negation surrounds the verb; the 'e' of 'ne' drops before a vowel or mute h, becoming n'.
Future simple (oublierai)
The future tense of the verb oublier is formed by adding the endings -ai, -as, -a, -ons, -ez, -ont to the infinitive.
Demonstrative adjective (cette)
Used before a feminine singular noun to point out something specific.
Noun (gentillesse)
A feminine noun meaning ‘kindness’ or ‘goodwill.’
🗨In Conversation
Merci d'avoir pris le temps de m'expliquer le projet hier soir.
Thank you for taking the time to explain the project to me last night.
Je n'oublierai pas cette gentillesse.
I will not forget this kindness.
✕Common Mistakes
Je oublierai pas cette gentillesse.
Do not split the negation; it must surround the verb (n'…pas).
Je n'oublierai pas ce gentillesse.
Use 'cette' for feminine singular nouns; 'ce' would be incorrect here.
Je n'oublie pas cette gentillesse.
The future tense is required to convey ‘will not forget’; the present ‘oublie’ changes the meaning.
↔Alternatives
Je me souviendrai toujours de cette gentillesse.
I will always remember this kindness.
Je n'oublierai jamais ce que tu as fait pour moi.
I will never forget what you did for me.
Ta générosité restera gravée dans ma mémoire.
Your generosity will stay etched in my memory.
Cultural Tip
In French culture, expressing gratitude with a future‑tense phrase like this shows that the favor has made a lasting impression. It is more heartfelt than a simple “merci” and is often used in written thank‑you notes or when parting after a meaningful encounter. Avoid over‑using it with strangers; reserve it for people you have a personal connection with.