Are you looking for a different way to say "thank you" to someone? If so, you could use the expression "I appreciate it" instead. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression "I appreciate it" is another way of saying "thank you." We started using gratitude in terms in the 1500s, and "thank you" was the first to appear in the language. As the centuries moved forward, thank you evolved into many other expressions of gratitude, all with a slight variation.
"I appreciate it" is another way of saying thank you. However, examining the words and the context in which people use them suggests a deeper sense of gratitude than a simple thank you. It's a way of telling someone that you value the effort they put into doing you a favor, and you would likely do the same for them if they needed it.
"I appreciate it" has also changed to other formats. DJ Khaled is famous for his rendition of the phrase, "I appreciate you." This phrase is not the original, but it carries the same meaning, and it places the focus of gratitude on the person, not the task. We think it's quite clever.
Example Usage
"Aw, thank you for getting me that new bag. That's so thoughtful; I appreciate it."
"Thanks for helping me out with the move. It would have taken me hours without your help, I appreciate it, and you can rely on me for help with anything, anytime."
"I appreciate it; you didn't have to go out of your way like that for me."
"Thanks for doing that, I appreciate it and your effort, and I won't forget it."
"After all that, you went and did it anyway. Thank you, I appreciate it."
Origin
Language experts are unsure when the term "I appreciate it" appeared in English. Some believe that the phrase's roots extend back to the 1650s and the introduction of pleasantries into the English language.
The word "appreciate" comes from the Latin, "appretiatus," meaning "to esteem or value highly." Many language experts believe this pleasantry is just an extension of the words "thank you" and a derivative used to bring more variety into the language during the 1900s.
Some experts believe that "I appreciate it" would come from the days of the Gold Rush in the United States. It was common for gentlemen to use it around the time as a way to say thank you to strangers.
Phrases Similar to I Appreciate It
- I appreciate you.
- Thanks very much.
- I appreciate that.
Phrases Opposite to I Appreciate It
- Thanks for nothing.
- I didn't need it anyway.
- Your actions are worthless.
What is the Correct Saying?
- I appreciate it.
Ways People May Say I Appreciate It Incorrectly
People may use the phrase in its different rendition, "I appreciate you." DJ Khaled is responsible for making this variation of the saying popular, and it's the subject of many memes. However, it's not the grammatically correct form of the expression, and it's more common in street language than formal or semi-formal conversation.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase I Appreciate It
You can use "I appreciate it" in social and professional situations where you're looking to display deep gratitude to someone. For instance, you forget your credit card at the grocery checkout. You return to find the manager kept it aside for you, and use "I appreciate it" to convey your gratitude at their action to prevent its loss. You could use the phrase at home when someone gives you a gift you like or does you an important favor.