What to Say When Someone Praises You: 65 Simple Phrases

Receiving praise can be a wonderful boost to your day, but knowing what to say when someone praises you can sometimes be a challenge. Whether it’s a compliment at work, a kind word from a friend, or recognition of your talents, responding appropriately is key to maintaining good relationships and building your confidence.

In this article, we’ll explore simple and effective ways to respond to compliments, helping you navigate these moments with grace and sincerity. Get ready to feel more comfortable and appreciative when someone offers you praise.

Simple and Polite Responses

When someone praises you, having a few go-to responses can make the interaction smooth and pleasant. Simple and polite responses are often the best way to acknowledge the compliment without feeling awkward or overwhelmed. Here are some examples and tips on how to use these responses effectively:

1. “Thank You”

• When to Use: This is the most straightforward and universal response to any compliment. It works in both personal and professional settings.
• Example: If someone says, “You did a great job on that presentation,” you can respond with, “Thank you.”

2. “I Appreciate It”

• When to Use: This response adds a touch more formality and is ideal for professional settings or when you want to express deeper gratitude.
• Example: If a colleague says, “Your report was very detailed and helpful,” you can say, “I appreciate it.”

3. “That Means a Lot to Me”

• When to Use: Use this when the praise genuinely touches you, such as personal compliments from friends or family.
• Example: If a friend says, “You’re always there for me,” you can respond with, “That means a lot to me.”

4. “Thanks for Noticing”

• When to Use: This is great for when someone compliments your efforts or something you’ve put time into, like a new project or a personal achievement.
• Example: If someone says, “You’ve been working out, haven’t you? You look great,” you can reply with, “Thanks for noticing.”

5. “I’m Glad You Think So”

• When to Use: This response works well when you’re unsure how to react or want to keep things light-hearted.
• Example: If a colleague says, “You always have such creative ideas,” you can say, “I’m glad you think so.”

6. “I’m Happy It Helped”

• When to Use: Use this when someone compliments you on something you’ve done that benefited them or others.
• Example: If a coworker says, “Your advice really helped me with the project,” you can respond with, “I’m happy it helped.”

7. “Thanks, That’s Very Kind of You”

• When to Use: This response is perfect for more personal compliments where you want to reciprocate kindness.
• Example: If someone says, “You have a wonderful smile,” you can reply with, “Thanks, that’s very kind of you.”

8. “I’m Honored”

• When to Use: Use this response when the praise is particularly significant or comes from someone you deeply respect.
• Example: If a mentor says, “You’re one of the best students I’ve had,” you can say, “I’m honored.”

9. “It Was a Team Effort”

• When to Use: This is appropriate for professional settings where a project involved collaboration.
• Example: If a manager says, “The project was a huge success because of you,” you can respond with, “It was a team effort.”

10. “I’ve Been Working Hard on It”

• When to Use: Use this when someone recognizes your efforts in a specific area.
• Example: If someone says, “You’ve really improved your skills,” you can say, “I’ve been working hard on it.”

11. “That’s Really Encouraging”

• When to Use: This response is good when the praise boosts your motivation.
• Example: If someone says, “You’re making great progress,” you can respond with, “That’s really encouraging.”

12. “I’m Grateful for Your Support”

• When to Use: Use this when the praise comes from someone who has been supportive of your efforts.
• Example: If a friend says, “You did an amazing job,” you can reply with, “I’m grateful for your support.”

13. “You’re So Generous with Your Compliments”

• When to Use: Use this to acknowledge the kindness of the person giving the praise.
• Example: If someone says, “You always know how to make people smile,” you can say, “You’re so generous with your compliments.”

14. “I’m Happy You Enjoyed It”

• When to Use: This is perfect when someone compliments something you’ve created or organized.
• Example: If someone says, “The event you organized was fantastic,” you can respond with, “I’m happy you enjoyed it.”

15. “I Value Your Opinion”

• When to Use: Use this when the praise comes from someone whose opinion you highly regard.
• Example: If a colleague says, “Your presentation was very insightful,” you can say, “I value your opinion.”

Elaborate Responses for Different Situations

Different situations call for tailored responses when someone praises you. Whether it’s in a professional environment, a personal setting, or a social scenario, having the right words ready can help you respond appropriately and graciously. Here are some detailed suggestions for various contexts:

Professional Praise

In a work setting, it’s important to respond to praise in a way that acknowledges the compliment while maintaining professionalism. Here are some examples:

1. “Thank you, I’m proud of the results.”

• • When to Use: This response is suitable for general praise about your work or performance.
  • Example: If your boss says, “You did an excellent job on the project,” you can reply, “Thank you, I’m proud of the results.”

2. “I’m grateful for the recognition.”

• • When to Use: Use this response when you want to express gratitude for being recognized.
  • Example: If a colleague says, “Your insights were invaluable during the meeting,” you can respond with, “I’m grateful for the recognition.”

3. “I’m glad my efforts are making a difference.”

• • When to Use: This is perfect for situations where your work impacts the team or company.
  • Example: If your manager says, “Your initiative really paid off,” you can reply, “I’m glad my efforts are making a difference.”

4. “Thank you, I’ve been focusing on improving in that area.”

• • When to Use: Use this when the praise is about a specific skill or area of improvement.
  • Example: If a coworker says, “Your presentations have really improved,” you can respond with, “Thank you, I’ve been focusing on improving in that area.”

5. “I appreciate the feedback.”

• • When to Use: This response works well when you want to acknowledge constructive praise.
  • Example: If your boss says, “Your report was very detailed and helpful,” you can reply, “I appreciate the feedback.”

6. “I’m pleased that my contribution was helpful.”

• • When to Use: Use this when your work has directly benefited someone.
  • Example: If a colleague says, “Your advice really helped me with the project,” you can respond with, “I’m pleased that my contribution was helpful.”

7. “Thank you, it was a rewarding project to work on.”

• • When to Use: Use this when you enjoyed the project or task.
  • Example: If someone says, “You did an amazing job on that proposal,” you can say, “Thank you, it was a rewarding project to work on.”

8. “I’m grateful for the chance to contribute.”

• • When to Use: This is suitable when you’re thankful for the opportunity provided.
  • Example: If your boss says, “Your work on this project has been outstanding,” you can reply, “I’m grateful for the chance to contribute.”

9. “I’m glad to be part of such a great team.”

• • When to Use: Use this to acknowledge team efforts.
  • Example: If a manager says, “Your efforts led to our success,” you can respond with, “I’m glad to be part of such a great team.”

10. “Thank you, I’ve learned a lot from this experience.”

• • When to Use: Use this when the praise is about a challenging task or project.
  • Example: If someone says, “You handled that challenging client very well,” you can reply, “Thank you, I’ve learned a lot from this experience.”

Personal Praise

When receiving praise from friends or family, it’s important to be warm and heartfelt. Here are some responses:

11. “Thank you, it means a lot to hear you say that.”

• • When to Use: This is suitable for compliments from close friends or family members.
  • Example: If a friend says, “You’re such a good listener,” you can say, “Thank you, it means a lot to hear you say that.”

12. “I’m so glad I could help.”

• • When to Use: Use this response when the praise is about something that positively affected the person.
  • Example: If a family member says, “Your advice really helped me,” you can respond with, “I’m so glad I could help.”

13. “Your words are very encouraging.”

• • When to Use: This response is great for expressing gratitude for supportive words.
  • Example: If a loved one says, “I’m proud of all you’ve accomplished,” you can say, “Your words are very encouraging.”

14. “Thank you, I enjoy doing it.”

• • When to Use: Use this for compliments on hobbies or interests.
  • Example: If a friend says, “You’re really talented at painting,” you can respond with, “Thank you, I enjoy doing it.”

15. “I appreciate your support and encouragement.”

• • When to Use: This response is perfect for acknowledging ongoing support.
  • Example: If a family member says, “You’ve been doing great,” you can reply, “I appreciate your support and encouragement.”

16. “Thanks, that really brightened my day.”

• • When to Use: Use this when the compliment has a positive impact on your mood.
  • Example: If a friend says, “You always make me smile,” you can respond with, “Thanks, that really brightened my day.”

17. “I’m grateful for your kind words.”

• • When to Use: Use this for heartfelt compliments.
  • Example: If a family member says, “You have a big heart,” you can say, “I’m grateful for your kind words.”

18. “I’m thankful for your encouragement.”

• • When to Use: This response is great for acknowledging support from close ones.
  • Example: If a friend says, “You’re doing an amazing job,” you can say, “I’m thankful for your encouragement.”

19. “Thank you, I’m glad to have you in my life.”

• • When to Use: Use this to express deeper gratitude for personal praise.
  • Example: If someone says, “You’re a wonderful friend,” you can respond with, “Thank you, I’m glad to have you in my life.”

20. “I’m happy I could be there for you.”

• • When to Use: Use this when someone praises your support or presence.
  • Example: If a family member says, “You always know how to cheer me up,” you can reply, “I’m happy I could be there for you.”

Social Praise

In social settings, compliments can be more casual, and your responses can reflect that tone. Here are some suggestions:

21. “Thanks, I’m really glad you enjoyed it.”

• • When to Use: This is great for compliments about something you’ve created or organized.
  • Example: If someone says, “The party you threw was amazing,” you can reply, “Thanks, I’m really glad you enjoyed it.”

22. “I appreciate that, it’s nice to hear.”

• • When to Use: Use this for general praise from acquaintances or new friends.
  • Example: If someone says, “You have a great sense of humor,” you can respond with, “I appreciate that, it’s nice to hear.”

23. “Thank you, I always strive to do my best.”

• • When to Use: This is suitable for compliments about your efforts or personality.
  • Example: If someone says, “You’re always so friendly,” you can say, “Thank you, I always strive to do my best.”

24. “Thanks, that’s a huge compliment coming from you.”

• • When to Use: Use this when the praise comes from someone you admire or respect.
  • Example: If someone you look up to says, “You handled that situation very well,” you can reply, “Thanks, that’s a huge compliment coming from you.”

25. “I’m glad I could contribute to the success.”

• • When to Use: Use this when praised for a group activity or event.
  • Example: If someone says, “The event was a big hit thanks to you,” you can respond with, “I’m glad I could contribute to the success.”

26. “Thank you, I had a great time doing it.”

• • When to Use: Use this when the compliment is about something you enjoyed.
  • Example: If someone says, “Your performance was fantastic,” you can say, “Thank you, I had a great time doing it.”

27. “I’m happy you liked it.”

• • When to Use: This is perfect for compliments on something you’ve made or done.
  • Example: If someone says, “The cake you baked was delicious,” you can respond with, “I’m happy you liked it.”

28. “Thanks, it was a lot of fun.”

• • When to Use: Use this for compliments on activities you participated in.
  • Example: If someone says, “You did great in the game,” you can say, “Thanks, it was a lot of fun.”

29. “I’m glad I could help make it special.”

• • When to Use: Use this for compliments on efforts to make an event or moment memorable.
  • Example: If someone says, “Your decorations were beautiful,” you can reply, “I’m glad I could help make it special.”

30. “Thank you, your words mean a lot.”

• • When to Use: Use this to show that you value the compliment.
  • Example: If someone says, “You have a wonderful voice,” you can respond with, “Thank you, your words mean a lot.”

Handling Specific Types of Praise

Compliments can touch on various aspects of who we are, and how we respond can make a big difference. When someone praises your appearance, achievements, or skills, the way you acknowledge the compliment can enhance the interaction and leave a lasting impression. In this section, we’ll break down effective responses tailored to different types of praise, helping you feel more confident and genuine.

Compliments on Appearance

Compliments on your appearance can sometimes catch you off guard. Here are some ways to respond graciously:

1. “Thank you, that’s very kind of you.”

• • When to Use: This is a straightforward and polite response to any compliment on your appearance.
  • Example: If someone says, “You look great today,” you can respond with, “Thank you, that’s very kind of you.”

2. “I appreciate that, I feel good today.”

• • When to Use: Use this response to acknowledge the compliment and share your positive feelings.
  • Example: If someone says, “You have a lovely smile,” you can say, “I appreciate that, I feel good today.”

3. “Thanks, I just got it recently.”

• • When to Use: Use this when someone compliments a new item of clothing or accessory.
  • Example: If someone says, “I love your dress,” you can reply, “Thanks, I just got it recently.”

4. “Thank you, it’s one of my favorites too.”

• • When to Use: This is great for compliments on something you often wear.
  • Example: If someone says, “Those shoes are fantastic,” you can respond with, “Thank you, it’s one of my favorites too.”

5. “I’m glad you like it, it means a lot coming from you.”

• • When to Use: Use this when the compliment comes from someone whose opinion you value.
  • Example: If a friend says, “You always look so stylish,” you can say, “I’m glad you like it, it means a lot coming from you.”

Compliments on Achievements

Receiving praise for your achievements can be especially gratifying. Here’s how to respond:

6. “Thank you, I worked really hard on it.”

• • When to Use: Use this to acknowledge your efforts and express gratitude.
  • Example: If someone says, “Congratulations on your promotion,” you can reply, “Thank you, I worked really hard on it.”

7. “I appreciate your recognition, it was a team effort.”

• • When to Use: This response is suitable for acknowledging collaborative achievements.
  • Example: If your boss says, “Great job on the project,” you can say, “I appreciate your recognition, it was a team effort.”

8. “Thank you, it’s been a long journey.”

• • When to Use: Use this when the praise is about a significant milestone.
  • Example: If someone says, “Well done on completing your degree,” you can reply, “Thank you, it’s been a long journey.”

9. “I’m honored by your words.”

• • When to Use: This is suitable for formal settings or significant achievements.
  • Example: If a mentor says, “Your work has been outstanding,” you can respond with, “I’m honored by your words.”

10. “Thank you, I couldn’t have done it without the support.”

• • When to Use: Use this to acknowledge the help and support you received.
  • Example: If a friend says, “You’ve accomplished so much,” you can say, “Thank you, I couldn’t have done it without the support.”

Compliments on Skills or Talents

When someone praises your skills or talents, it’s a great opportunity to express gratitude and confidence. Here are some responses:

11. “Thank you, I’ve been practicing a lot.”

• • When to Use: Use this to highlight your dedication and effort.
  • Example: If someone says, “You play the piano beautifully,” you can reply, “Thank you, I’ve been practicing a lot.”

12. “I appreciate that, it’s something I’m passionate about.”

• • When to Use: This response is perfect for expressing your love for what you do.
  • Example: If someone says, “You’re an amazing cook,” you can say, “I appreciate that, it’s something I’m passionate about.”

13. “Thanks, I enjoy doing it.”

• • When to Use: Use this to keep the conversation light and friendly.
  • Example: If someone says, “You’re so good at painting,” you can respond with, “Thanks, I enjoy doing it.”

14. “I’m glad you think so, it means a lot.”

• • When to Use: Use this for compliments on your abilities.
  • Example: If someone says, “You’re really talented at writing,” you can say, “I’m glad you think so, it means a lot.”

15. “Thank you, I’ve put a lot of effort into it.”

• • When to Use: Use this to acknowledge the hard work behind your skills.
  • Example: If someone says, “Your photography is stunning,” you can reply, “Thank you, I’ve put a lot of effort into it.”

16. “I’m happy you enjoyed it, it’s something I love doing.”

• • When to Use: Use this when the praise is about something you’ve done for others.
  • Example: If someone says, “Your presentation was excellent,” you can say, “I’m happy you enjoyed it, it’s something I love doing.”

17. “Thanks, I’m always looking to improve.”

• • When to Use: This response shows humility and a willingness to keep growing.
  • Example: If someone says, “You’re a fantastic dancer,” you can reply, “Thanks, I’m always looking to improve.”

18. “I’m grateful for your encouragement.”

• • When to Use: Use this when the praise helps boost your confidence.
  • Example: If a friend says, “You’re great at public speaking,” you can respond with, “I’m grateful for your encouragement.”

19. “Thank you, it’s been a rewarding journey.”

• • When to Use: Use this when the praise is about a long-term skill or talent.
  • Example: If someone says, “Your artwork is amazing,” you can say, “Thank you, it’s been a rewarding journey.”

20. “I’m honored by your praise.”

• • When to Use: This is suitable for high praise from someone you respect.
  • Example: If a mentor says, “You have a remarkable talent,” you can respond with, “I’m honored by your praise.”

Tips for Responding to Praise

Be Sincere

People can often tell when a response is insincere. Being genuine in your appreciation makes the interaction more meaningful. When you respond to a compliment, use words and phrases that you feel comfortable with and that reflect your true feelings.

Avoid over-the-top responses if they don’t feel natural to you. Authenticity builds trust and shows that you genuinely value the compliment. For instance, if someone praises your presentation, and you feel proud of your work, you could say, “Thank you, I’m really proud of how it turned out.”

Maintain Eye Contact and Smile

Eye contact and a genuine smile show that you are engaged and truly appreciate the compliment. These non-verbal cues reinforce your verbal response and make the interaction more personal. When responding to a compliment, look the person in the eyes and smile warmly.

This shows that you are fully present and grateful for their kind words. For example, if a friend compliments your appearance, saying, “You look great today,” respond with a heartfelt “Thank you,” while maintaining eye contact and smiling.

Accept the Praise

Dismissing or downplaying a compliment can make the giver feel awkward and diminish the recognition of your achievements. Accepting praise graciously without deflecting it is important. It’s okay to acknowledge your hard work and success.

When someone compliments your efforts, resist the urge to downplay it with phrases like, “Oh, it was nothing.” Instead, accept the praise fully by saying, “Thank you, I put a lot of effort into it.” This shows confidence and appreciation.

Share the Credit

If your success was a team effort, acknowledging others shows humility and strengthens team spirit. Sharing credit highlights the collaborative nature of your achievements and fosters a positive team environment. When responding to praise for a group accomplishment, mention the contributions of others.

For example, if your manager says, “Your team did a fantastic job,” you could respond with, “Thank you, everyone worked really hard and contributed.” This not only shows humility but also promotes a culture of teamwork.

Reflect on the Praise

Reflecting on the compliment and adding a personal touch makes your response more engaging and memorable. It shows that you’ve thought about the praise and that it has a positive impact on you. When someone compliments you, share a brief insight or feeling related to the praise you received.

For instance, if someone says, “Your artwork is stunning,” you could say, “Thank you, I’ve been experimenting with new techniques, and I’m glad it’s resonating.” This adds depth to your response and can lead to a more meaningful conversation.

Follow Up with a Question

Following up with a question can make the interaction more interactive and show that you value the other person’s opinion. It also provides an opportunity to learn more about what they liked and continue the positive exchange. After receiving a compliment, ask a relevant question related to the praise.

For example, if a colleague says, “Your report was very insightful,” you could respond with, “Thank you, I appreciate that. Did you find any section particularly useful?” This keeps the conversation flowing and demonstrates your interest in their feedback.