grazie

Grazie is the Italian word for "thank you" and the most common expression of gratitude in everyday Italian. It is used in formal and informal settings and is appropriate in a wide range of social interactions.

Etymology: the word derives from Latin gratia meaning "favor" or "grace," reaching Italian through Old Italian grazia. Over time the form evolved into grazie, the standard expression used to convey thanks.

Usage and variations: grazie is typically used on its own, as in "Grazie!" to acknowledge a service or favor. Common variants include "grazie mille" (thank you very much), "grazie tante" (many thanks), and "mille grazie." For greater formality, one might say "la ringrazio" (I thank you, formal) or "ti ringrazio" (I thank you, informal). In reply, the standard response is "prego" meaning "you’re welcome."

Pronunciation: in standard Italian, grazie is pronounced roughly as /ˈɡrat.tsi.e/.

Cultural notes: grazie is widely used across Italy and in Italian-speaking communities worldwide. The term is a familiar sign of politeness and can appear in literature, media, and everyday conversation. Learners of Italian typically master this basic expression early, given its frequency and versatility in social exchange.