Meaning
A polite response to being thanked.
Cultural Background
Estonians value modesty. This phrase is perfect because it doesn't draw attention to the favor. Similar to Estonian, Finns also value modesty and have similar expressions like 'Eipä kestä'. The 'Jante Law' culture in the Nordics encourages people to not think they are better than others, which aligns with this humble phrase. Across Lithuania and Latvia, there are similar expressions that focus on the 'no problem' aspect rather than the 'thanks' aspect.
Keep it simple
Don't overthink the grammar. Just memorize the whole phrase as one block.
Be humble
Estonians appreciate modesty. This phrase is the perfect way to show it.
Meaning
A polite response to being thanked.
Keep it simple
Don't overthink the grammar. Just memorize the whole phrase as one block.
Be humble
Estonians appreciate modesty. This phrase is the perfect way to show it.
Listen to natives
Notice how they say it quickly and naturally in shops.
Test Yourself
Complete the response to 'Aitäh!'.
— Aitäh! — Pole tänu ____.
The phrase is 'Pole tänu väärt'.
Which is the correct way to say 'You're welcome'?
Choose the correct phrase:
This is the standard, fixed word order.
What do you say when someone thanks you?
A: Aitäh! B: ________
It is the standard response to thanks.
Match the situation to the correct response.
Situation: Someone says 'Aitäh'.
It is the only appropriate response to thanks.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises— Aitäh! — Pole tänu ____.
The phrase is 'Pole tänu väärt'.
Choose the correct phrase:
This is the standard, fixed word order.
A: Aitäh! B: ________
It is the standard response to thanks.
Situation: Someone says 'Aitäh'.
It is the only appropriate response to thanks.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, it is perfectly appropriate for professional settings.
No, it is neutral and works everywhere.
Yes, 'Tänan' is slightly more formal.
It might seem rude. Always respond to thanks.
Yes, it is common in texts as well.
No, it is a fixed phrase.
No, that would be incorrect.
Yes, it is the standard equivalent.
No, it is used throughout Estonia.
Like the 'a' in 'cat'.
Related Phrases
Pole midagi
synonymIt's nothing
Palun
similarPlease / You're welcome
Aitäh
contrastThank you
Suur tänu
contrastMany thanks
