How to Respond to a Compliment – 10 Ways to Say It in English–French

1. Thank you; that’s very kind of you.

Derived Variants:

  • « Thanks, that’s really kind of you. »
  • « I appreciate that; thank you. »

Example Sentence (English – Present Simple): « Thank you; that’s very kind of you. » French Translation: « Merci, c’est très aimable de votre part. »

Context & Explanation: A simple, sincere response that works in both formal and informal settings. It acknowledges the compliment without diminishing it.

2. I’m flattered; thank you.

Derived Variants:

  • « I’m truly flattered, thanks. »
  • « I’m genuinely flattered; thank you so much. »

Example Sentence (English – Present Simple): « I’m flattered; thank you. » French Translation: « Je suis flatté(e); merci. »

Context & Explanation: This response expresses genuine appreciation and humility, making it ideal for compliments about personal qualities or skills.

3. That means a lot; thank you.

Derived Variants:

  • « It means a great deal to me, thank you. »
  • « I really appreciate that; thank you. »

Example Sentence (English – Present Simple): « That means a lot; thank you. » French Translation: « Cela compte beaucoup pour moi, merci. »

Context & Explanation: This heartfelt response is suitable when a compliment touches you deeply. It works well in personal interactions and when you want to express sincere gratitude.

4. I appreciate your kind words.

Derived Variants:

  • « I truly appreciate your kind words. »
  • « I really appreciate what you said; thank you. »

Example Sentence (English – Present Simple): « I appreciate your kind words. » French Translation: « J’apprécie vos aimables paroles. »

Context & Explanation: A professional yet warm way to accept praise. It shows that you value the compliment and the sentiment behind it, fitting for workplace feedback.

5. Thank you; I’m touched by your compliment.

Derived Variants:

  • « I’m really touched; thank you. »
  • « That compliment really touched me; thank you. »

Example Sentence (English – Present Simple): « Thank you; I’m touched by your compliment. » French Translation: « Merci, votre compliment m’a touché(e). »

Context & Explanation: This option expresses deep emotional impact and is best used in scenarios where the compliment is heartfelt. It conveys gratitude along with personal sensitivity.

6. You’re too kind; thank you.

Derived Variants:

  • « You’re very kind; thank you. »
  • « That’s so kind of you; thank you. »

Example Sentence (English – Present Simple): « You’re too kind; thank you. » French Translation: « Vous êtes trop aimable; merci. »

Context & Explanation: A humble and modest reply that downplays the compliment while still expressing gratitude. Suitable in both personal and professional contexts.

7. I appreciate that, thank you.

Derived Variants:

  • « I really appreciate that. »
  • « I appreciate it very much; thank you. »

Example Sentence (English – Present Simple): « I appreciate that, thank you. » French Translation: « J’apprécie cela, merci. »

Context & Explanation: This concise response works well when you want to acknowledge a compliment without embellishment. It is adaptable to various social scenarios.

8. That’s very generous of you; thank you.

Derived Variants:

  • « It’s generous of you; thanks. »
  • « Your generosity in complimenting me is appreciated; thank you. »

Example Sentence (English – Present Simple): « That’s very generous of you; thank you. » French Translation: « C’est très généreux de votre part; merci. »

Context & Explanation: This reply is well-suited for compliments that feel exceptionally kind or considerate. It emphasizes appreciation for both the compliment and the gesture behind it.

9. I’m grateful for your compliment; thank you.

Derived Variants:

  • « I’m truly grateful; thank you. »
  • « I’m thankful for your kind words; thank you. »

Example Sentence (English – Present Simple): « I’m grateful for your compliment; thank you. » French Translation: « Je suis reconnaissant(e) pour votre compliment; merci. »

Context & Explanation: This formal response is perfect when addressing someone in a professional context or someone you hold in high regard.

10. Your words mean a lot to me; thank you.

Derived Variants:

  • « Your compliment means a great deal; thank you. »
  • « I truly value what you’ve said; thank you. »

Example Sentence (English – Present Simple): « Your words mean a lot to me; thank you. » French Translation: « Vos paroles comptent beaucoup pour moi; merci. »

Context & Explanation: This response is both warm and appreciative, reinforcing the impact of the compliment. It is ideal for personal interactions where you wish to express heartfelt gratitude.

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