תּוֹדָה רַבָּה
Todah Rabah
“Thank you very much”
Todah Rabah (תּוֹדָה רַבָּה) is a Hebrew phrase meaning “thank you very much,” pronounced “to-DAH ra-BAH.” The literal translation is “thanks great/much.” An emphatic form of thanks used when you want to express extra gratitude — after receiving a gift, significant help, or special kindness.
| Hebrew | תּוֹדָה רַבָּה |
|---|---|
| Transliteration | Todah Rabah |
| English Meaning | Thank you very much |
| Literal Translation | Thanks great/much |
| Pronunciation | to-DAH ra-BAH |
| Category | Greetings & Common |
| Origin | Hebrew, combining the biblical todah (thanksgiving) with rabah (much/great). Both words are ancient, though the specific pairing as a set phrase is a feature of modern spoken Hebrew. |
Sometimes a simple todah isn't enough. When an Israeli wants to express deep, heartfelt gratitude — for a meaningful favor, a generous gift, or an act of genuine kindness — they reach for Todah Rabah: 'great thanks' or 'abundant thanks.' The word rabah means 'much, great, abundant' and appears throughout the Bible to describe God's overwhelming generosity. By pairing todah (thanksgiving) with rabah (abundance), you're saying that your gratitude is not small or casual — it overflows.
Where Does “Todah Rabah” Come From?
Hebrew, combining the biblical todah (thanksgiving) with rabah (much/great). Both words are ancient, though the specific pairing as a set phrase is a feature of modern spoken Hebrew.
When and How to Say “Todah Rabah”
Used when you want to express more than casual thanks. A shop owner handing you change gets todah; your friend who drove two hours to help you move gets todah rabah. Also appropriate in formal settings and written thank-you notes.
Cultural Context of Todah Rabah
Israeli culture values directness over elaborate politeness, so Todah Rabah carries significant weight. When an Israeli says it, they typically mean it genuinely. You'll also hear 'Todah rabah al hakol' (Thank you very much for everything).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you say “Thank you very much” in Hebrew?
“Thank you very much” in Hebrew is Todah Rabah (תּוֹדָה רַבָּה), pronounced “to-DAH ra-BAH.” The literal translation is “Thanks great/much.” An emphatic form of thanks used when you want to express extra gratitude — after receiving a gift, significant help, or special kindness.
How do you pronounce Todah Rabah?
Todah Rabah is pronounced “to-DAH ra-BAH.” The literal meaning is “Thanks great/much.”
What is the difference between todah and todah rabah?
Todah is a simple 'thank you' for everyday interactions. Todah Rabah adds rabah (much/great) to express stronger gratitude — appropriate for significant favors, gifts, or kindnesses. Think of it as 'thanks' vs. 'thank you so much.'
How do you respond to todah rabah?
The most common response is 'Bevakasha' (בְּבַקָּשָׁה), meaning 'please' or 'you're welcome.' You can also say 'Ein be'ad ma' (Don't mention it), 'Al lo davar' (It's nothing), or 'B'simcha' (With joy/gladly).
Can you say todah rabah to God?
Absolutely. Todah Rabah can be directed toward God as an expression of abundant thanks. In Jewish prayer, the Modim prayer in the Amidah uses the same root. Many people say 'Todah Rabah la'Adonai' (Great thanks to the Lord) spontaneously.
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