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German Phrase

Vielen Dank.

/ˈfiːlən ˈdaŋk/
Meaning"Thank you very much."
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Meaning

‘Vielen Dank’ literally means ‘many thanks’ and is the standard way to say ‘Thank you very much’ in German. It conveys sincere gratitude and is slightly more formal than a simple ‘Danke’.

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When to use

Use this phrase after receiving a favor, a gift, or any help you want to acknowledge politely. It works well in both spoken and written contexts, from business emails to casual conversations.

✦Grammar Breakdown

VielenDank

1

Vielen

‘Vielen’ is the accusative plural form of ‘viel’, used here as an intensifier meaning ‘many’ or ‘much’.

2

Dank

‘Dank’ is a masculine noun meaning ‘thanks’; in this fixed expression it appears in the accusative case without an article.

🗨In Conversation

A

Hier ist das Dokument, das Sie angefordert haben.

Here is the document you requested.

Vielen Dank!

Thank you very much!

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Viel Dank.

    ‘Viel Dank’ is grammatically possible but sounds abrupt; native speakers prefer the plural ‘Vielen Dank’.

  • Danke sehr.

    ‘Danke sehr’ is a literal translation of ‘thanks very much’ but is not idiomatic in German.

↔Alternatives

  • Danke!

    Thanks!

  • Herzlichen Dank!

    Heartfelt thanks!

  • Danke schön!

    Thanks a lot!

de

Cultural Tip

In German‑speaking countries, saying ‘Vielen Dank’ is considered polite but not overly formal. In very formal business settings you might add ‘für Ihre Unterstützung’ (for your support) or use the full phrase ‘Ich danke Ihnen herzlich’. Avoid over‑using it with strangers, as it can sound insincere.