grateful vs. thankful

grateful vs. thankful: ’s the difference?

Grateful and thankful are close synonyms that are almost always used to mean the same thing. Both can mean “feeling gratitude” (as in I’m so grateful/thankful for the opportunity) or “expressing gratitude” (as in Their letter was extremely grateful/thankful). Both words can be used even when there’s not actually anyone to thank. Grateful also has a much rarer sense, meaning “pleasing to the mind or senses.”

adjective

  1. warmly or deeply appreciative of kindness or benefits received; thankful:

    I am grateful to you for your help.

    Synonyms: ,

  2. expressing or actuated by gratitude:

    a grateful letter.

  3. pleasing to the mind or senses; agreeable; welcome:

    a grateful breeze;

    The peace and calm of the hill country is a grateful relief.

    Synonyms: ,



adjective

  1. feeling or expressing gratitude; appreciative.

    Synonyms: , , ,