What Does "that's very kind of you" Mean?
- Pragmatic function: The primary social act performed by "that's very kind of you" is an expression of gratitude. It acknowledges a kind action, offer, or compliment from the speaker to the listener. It can also function as a polite way to acknowledge a thoughtful gesture.
- Literal vs. conventional meaning: The phrase's literal meaning aligns closely with its conventional meaning. It directly communicates that the speaker perceives the other person's actions or words as benevolent and thoughtful.
- Register: The register is generally neutral to slightly formal. It's suitable for use in a variety of social situations, but might sound a bit stuffy in very casual settings among close friends.
How to Use It
- Typical social context: This phrase is used in response to an act of kindness, a generous offer, a thoughtful gesture, or a sincere compliment. It is appropriate in situations where you want to express your appreciation.
- Formality level and relationship between speakers: Suitable for interactions with acquaintances, colleagues, or individuals you don't know well. It can also be used with friends and family, though more casual expressions might be preferred in those situations.
- Expected response or follow-up: The person who offered the kindness doesn't necessarily expect a specific response. A simple "You're welcome" or "I'm glad I could help" is common. The speaker may also elaborate on their gratitude or explain why the gesture was meaningful.
- Can it stand alone or does it need a continuation? The phrase can stand alone as a complete expression of gratitude. However, it's often followed by additional comments to further express appreciation or explain the impact of the kind act.
Real-World Examples
These examples are sourced from that's very kind of you on Ludwig.guru.
"[Sounding unsure] Er, that's very kind of you to say." — The Guardian - Sport
""Thanks, that's very kind of you," I replied, as I settled in and powered up." — Huffington Post
""That's very kind of you, Imam." — The New Yorker
"That's very kind of you to think of me"." — The New York Times
"Dad says, "Oh thank you, that's very kind of you"." — The Guardian - Lifestyle
Examples sourced from https://ludwig.guru/s/that's+very+kind+of+you
Similar Phrases and Alternatives
Common Mistakes
- Using the wrong preposition is a common error. It's "kind of you," not "kind from you."
- Using it in overly casual situations can sound insincere. A more relaxed expression might be more appropriate among close friends.
- Learners sometimes use an incorrect word order, such as "That's very kind from you," or use it in inappropriate contexts where a more formal expression is needed.
Quick-Reference Summary
| Expression |
Social Function |
Register |
Typical Context |
| That's very kind of you |
Expressing gratitude |
Neutral to slightly formal |
Responding to a kind action, offer, or compliment |
FAQs
What is the expected reply when someone says, "That's very kind of you"?
A simple "You're welcome" is a perfectly acceptable and common response. Alternatively, you could say "I'm glad I could help" or offer a brief explanation or reassurance related to your act of kindness.
Is the phrase "that's very kind of you" used differently in British English compared to American English?
No, the phrase "that's very kind of you" is used in a similar way in both British and American English. While there might be slight variations in frequency or preferred alternatives, the core meaning and social function of expressing gratitude remain the same.
How can I avoid common mistakes when using the phrase "that's very kind of you"?
To avoid errors, remember the correct preposition: "kind of you." Also, consider the formality of the situation. While generally appropriate, it might sound slightly stiff in very casual settings. In such cases, a more relaxed expression of thanks might be better.