thanks anyway

/ˌθæŋks ˈɛniˌweɪ/
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Expresses gratitude despite an unhelpful, unsuccessful, or disappointing result.

Examples

  • You could not fix it, but thanks anyway for trying.
  • They could not accept our request, so we said thanks anyway and left.
  • When the clerk found no tickets, Maya said, thanks anyway.
  • I know you are busy; thanks anyway for replying.
  • The café had sold out, but I smiled and said, thanks anyway.

Similar words

thank you anyway
thanks all the same
still, thank you
thanks regardless

Meanings

Gratitude despite disappointment

communication
informal
Said to thank someone even though their effort did not help, their answer was negative, or the hoped-for result was not achieved.

Examples

  • The café had sold out, but I smiled and said, thanks anyway.
  • You could not fix it, but thanks anyway for trying.
  • When the clerk found no tickets, Maya said, thanks anyway.
  • I know you are busy; thanks anyway for replying.
  • They could not accept our request, so we said thanks anyway and left.

Similar words

Etymology

A transparent combination of thanks, the plural noun used as a formula of gratitude, and anyway in its “despite that” sense.

FAQ

What does thanks anyway mean?

It thanks someone even though their help did not work, was unavailable, or did not produce the result wanted.

When do people say thanks anyway?

They commonly say it after an unsuccessful effort, a refusal, or disappointing news, while still acknowledging the other person.

Can thanks anyway sound rude?

It can sound dismissive if stressed sharply, but a warm tone normally makes it polite and appreciative.

Is thanks anyway the same as thank you anyway?

Yes. Thank you anyway is slightly fuller, while thanks anyway is more conversational.

What is similar to thanks anyway?

Thanks all the same expresses the same combination of gratitude and disappointment.

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