1.
thank you for your hard work; good job
An expression used to acknowledge someone's effort or labor. Importantly, it is typically used by a superior toward a subordinate or by someone receiving a service. Using it toward a social superior is considered rude.
Usage
This expression is used to thank someone for their labor or effort, but it carries a hierarchical nuance. It is appropriate in the following situations:
- A boss to employees
- A customer to service workers (delivery, repair, etc.)
- A host to workers at their house
Watch out
Using ご苦労様 toward a boss or social superior is widely considered rude, as it implies you are looking down on their effort. Use お疲れ様です instead when speaking to peers or superiors.
Similar words
- ご苦労様 vs. お疲れ様: お疲れ様 is safe to use with anyone regardless of hierarchy. ご苦労様 should only be used toward subordinates or people providing a service to you.
Forms
- ご苦労様です (polite)
- ご苦労様でした (acknowledging completed work)
- ご苦労さん (casual, more familiar)