こちらこそ

こちらこそ
expression
the pleasure is mine; likewise; it is I who should say so
politegreetingexpression
1. likewise; the pleasure is mine; I should be the one saying that
A reply that turns a thanks, an apology, or a よろしくお(ねが)いします back on the speaker: 'no, it is I who should say that.' Literally 'this side, precisely.' Often followed by the phrase it answers: こちらこそ、ありがとうございます.
ありがとう」「こちらこそ」
'Thank you.' 'No, thank you.'
The pleasure is mine; I look forward to working with you.
'I'm sorry about the other day.' 'No, I'm the one who should apologize. Please don't worry about it.'

Composed of こちら (this side, I) + こそ (precisely). It answers three kinds of remark:

Usage

It stands alone in casual speech (「ありがとう」「こちらこそ」) and is followed by the full phrase in polite speech.

Related words