Thanks Loads: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
October 25, 2023

"Thanks loads" is an idiom that means "thank you very much" or "thank you a lot." It shows a high degree of appreciation or gratitude for something or someone.

In short:

  • It is an alternative way of saying "thank you very much."
  • It shows hight level of gratitude for something or someone.

What Does "Thanks Loads" Mean?

The expression "thanks loads" conveys a lot of gratitude or appreciation for something or someone. It is an idiom that means the same as "thank you very much" or "thank you a lot." For example, if someone gives you a nice gift, you can say "thanks loads" to show how much you like it and how grateful you are.

The word "loads" in this idiom means "a large amount" or "a great deal." It is often used to emphasize the quantity or quality of something. For example, if you have loads of money, it means you have a lot of money. If you have loads of fun, it means you have a great time.

Where Does "Thanks Loads" Come From?

The origin and history of the idiom "thanks loads" are unclear. However, another expression may have inspired it: "to thank one's lucky stars." This idiom means "to be grateful for one's good fortune." It comes from the ancient belief that the stars influence human destiny and fate. To thank one's lucky stars means acknowledging that the stars have favored one.

Perhaps, by saying "thanks loads," people wanted to express their gratitude more exaggeratedly and humorously. They tried to imply that they were thanking their lucky stars and thanking loads of other things or people for their good luck.

10 Examples of "Thanks Loads" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this idiom in sentences:

  • Thanks loads for the tickets. I can't wait to see the show.
  • I really appreciate your support and advice. Thanks loads!
  • Thanks loads for fixing my computer. You're such a tech-nerd.
  • You're such a good friend. Thanks loads for being there for me!
  • Thanks loads for the ride. You saved me a lot of time and money.
  • Thanks loads for inviting me to the evening out. I had loads of fun.
  • About last night, she hugged him and said thanks loads for the flowers.
  • I'm glad to hear that you liked the cake. Thanks loads for your kind words.
  • He was so happy with his birthday present that he said thanks loads repeatedly.
  • Thanks loads for helping me with my homework. I couldn't have done it without you.

Examples of "Thanks Loads" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how it was used in pop culture:

  • In the 2001 movie "Bridget Jones's Diary," the main character Bridget Jones (played by Renée Zellweger) says "thanks loads" to her boss, Daniel Cleaver (played by Hugh Grant), after he compliments her on her new dress.
  • In the 2003 movie "Love Actually," the character Natalie (played by Martine McCutcheon) says "thanks loads" to the Prime Minister (played by Hugh Grant) after he helps her with her coat.
  • In the 2007 TV show "Skins," the character Sid Jenkins (played by Mike Bailey) says "thanks loads" to his friend Tony Stonem (played by Nicholas Hoult) after he gives him a fake ID.
  • In the 2010 book "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins, Katniss Everdeen says "thanks loads" to her mentor, Haymitch Abernathy, after he sends her a gift of medicine in the arena.

Other Ways to Say "Thanks Loads"

Here are some synonyms and alternative expressions for this idiom:

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Thanks Loads"

Here are some common questions and answers about this idiom:

  • What does "thanks loads" mean?

"Thanks loads" is an idiom that means "thank you very much" or "thank you a lot." It shows a high degree of appreciation or gratitude for something or someone.

  • What is the origin of the phrase "thanks loads"?

The origin and history of the idiom "thanks loads" are unclear. However, another expression may have inspired it: "to thank one's lucky stars." This idiom means "to be grateful for one's good fortune." It comes from the ancient belief that the stars influence human destiny and fate. To thank one’s lucky stars means acknowledging that the stars have favored one.

  • Is "thanks loads" formal or informal?

Thanks loads" is an informal way of saying "thank you very much." It is inappropriate for formal or professional situations, such as writing a business letter or giving a speech. You should use more polite and respectful expressions for formal occasions, such as "Thank you for your consideration" or "I appreciate your assistance."

  • Is "thanks loads" British or American?

"Thanks loads" is more common in British than American English. However, it is not exclusive to British speakers. American speakers can also use it, especially if they want to sound friendly or humorous. It is also possible that some American speakers may have learned it from British movies, TV shows, books, or songs.

  • Is "thanks loads" sarcastic or sincere?

"Thanks loads" can be either sarcastic or sincere, depending on the speaker's context and tone of voice. If the speaker sounds happy and grateful, they probably use it sincerely to express their appreciation. If the speaker says angry or annoyed, they probably use it sarcastically to express their displeasure or dissatisfaction.

  • Can I use "thanks loads" with anyone?

You can use "thanks loads" with anyone close to you or familiar with you, such as your friends, family, or acquaintances. However, you should avoid using it with people who are distant or unfamiliar with you, such as your boss, teacher, or stranger. They may find it rude, disrespectful, or inappropriate.

  • Can I use "thanks loads" for anything?

You can use "thanks loads" for anything that you are grateful for or appreciate. It can be something big or small, tangible or intangible, personal or professional. For example, you can use it for a gift, a favor, a compliment, a service, an opportunity, etc.

  • How do I respond to "thanks loads"?

If someone says "thanks loads" to you sincerely, you can respond with a simple "you're welcome" or "my pleasure." You can also say something like "no problem," "anytime," or "glad to help."

  • What are some antonyms or opposite expressions of "thanks loads"?

Some antonyms or opposite expressions of "thanks loads" are "no thanks," "thanks for nothing," "thanks but no thanks," "I owe you nothing," and "you're not welcome."

  • How do I translate "thanks loads" into other languages?

The idiom "thanks loads" may not have an exact equivalent in other languages, but you can try to find a similar expression that conveys the same meaning and tone, such as "Muchas gracias" in Spanish, "Merci beaucoup" in French, "Vielen Dank" in German, and "Grazie mille" in Italian.

Final Thoughts About "Thanks Loads"

The idiom "thanks loads" is a casual and informal way of saying "thank you very much" or "thank you a lot." It shows a high degree of appreciation or gratitude for something or someone. However, it can also be used sarcastically or ironically to mean the opposite of what it says.

Some basic information about the idiom:

  • It is more common in British English than in American English.
  • It may have originated in the 20th century from the word "loads," which means "a large amount.
  • It has some related expressions that use different words.
  • It can be used with anyone close to you or familiar with you, such as your friends, family, or acquaintances.
  • It can be used for anything you are grateful for or appreciate, such as a gift, a favor, a compliment, etc.

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