You Are More Than Welcome: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
May 26, 2023

The idiom "you are more than welcome" implies that the speaker is expressing extreme gratitude or is extremely willing to do something for someone. It signifies that the speaker is not only willing but also genuinely happy and enthusiastic about doing a favor or service.

In short:

"You are more than welcome" means that the speaker is genuinely happy or enthusiastic to help or provide a service, or it can also be used as a strong expression of gratitude.

What Does "You Are More Than Welcome" Mean?

The idiom "you are more than welcome" is often used when the speaker wants to assure the listener of their willingness and eagerness to help or to express deep gratitude. It emphasizes the speaker's genuine interest or thankfulness.

Key aspects of the idiom's meaning include:

  • This signifies a high level of willingness to assist
  • Expresses deep gratitude
  • Illustrates a positive, open attitude

Where Does "You Are More Than Welcome" Come From?

The phrase "You are more than welcome" extends gratitude to someone for thanking them for something. It uses hyperbole to overextend the gratitude involved with the original saying, "You are welcome. " The origin of the expression is uncertain, but the addition of the word "more" start appearing in the 1800s.

Historical Example

"You know that you are more than welcome to stay here as long as ever you choose. Why not be content, then, to wait patiently till after Christmas?"

- Cassell's Family Magazine, 1880

10 Examples of "You Are More Than Welcome" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:

  • I wish you safe travels, and remember; you are more than welcome to visit us again in the future.
  • "You are more than welcome to join us for dinner," she warmly invited her new neighbor.
  • Your words truly resonate with me, and you are more than welcome to share more of your insights anytime.
  • "You are more than welcome to borrow my notes for the exam," she offered her classmate.
  • Upon receiving the gift, he expressed, "You are more than welcome. I'm glad you like it."
  • It's chow time, and you are more than welcome to join us for dinner.
  • "You are more than welcome to use my office while I'm away," he offered his colleague.
  • On a side note, if you ever need assistance with that project, you are more than welcome to ask me.
  • When thanked for his guidance, the coach responded, "You are more than welcome. I'm glad I could assist."
  • "You are more than welcome to stay at my place while you search for an apartment," he offered his friend.

Examples of "You Are More Than Welcome" in Pop Culture

The phrase "you are more than welcome" is commonly used in movies, TV shows, books, and music to convey gratitude and acceptance of an offer or provide in a warm, enthusiastic manner.

Some examples include:

  • "More Than Welcome" is a Christian song by Aaron Shust from the album Nothing to Fear.
  • A quote from Erin Knightley's romance novel "More Than a Stranger" reads, “If showing my true nature means that I present the voice of reason, then you are more than welcome, my lady.”

Other/Different Ways to Say "You Are More Than Welcome"

There are several other ways to express the meaning of the phrase in English.

These alternative phrases include:

  • It's my pleasure
  • I'm more than happy to help
  • I'm glad to be of service
  • Don't mention it
  • You're most welcome
  • It's the least I could do

You can use these alternatives interchangeably depending on the context and the intended depth of gratitude or willingness.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "You Are More Than Welcome"

  • What does "you are more than welcome" mean?

"You are more than welcome" is a phrase used to express deep gratitude or a high level of willingness and eagerness to help.

  • How can I use "you are more than welcome" in a sentence?

You can use "you are more than welcome" in a sentence to express your readiness to help or as an emphatic way to thank someone, for example, "You are more than welcome to use my car while yours is in the shop."

  • Where does the idiom "you are more than welcome" come from?

The phrase "you are more than welcome" is an extension of the common English phrase "you're welcome," and is used to express a higher level of gratitude or willingness.

  • Is the phrase "you are more than welcome" used worldwide?

Yes, the phrase "you are more than welcome" is used in English-speaking countries worldwide, with no significant variation in meaning.

  • Can you use "you are more than welcome" in a professional setting?

Yes, "you are more than welcome" can be used in a professional setting as a courteous response to thanks or as an expression of readiness to assist.

  • Does "you are more than welcome" only apply to personal situations?

No, "you are more than welcome" can be used in a wide variety of contexts, both personal and professional.

  • Is the idiom "you are more than welcome" still relevant today?

Yes, the phrase "you are more than welcome" is still commonly used today to convey deep gratitude or a strong willingness to assist.

  • What are the possible implications when someone uses the idiom "you are more than welcome"?

When someone uses the idiom "you are more than welcome," they might be expressing sincere gratitude or affirming their eagerness to be of service. This implies a positive, open, and accommodating attitude.

  • Can "you are more than welcome" be used to express sarcasm?

While it's typically used sincerely, like any phrase, "you are more than welcome" can be used sarcastically depending on tone and context.

  • Can "you are more than welcome" be seen as overbearing or too enthusiastic?

In most contexts, "you are more than welcome" is seen as polite and hospitable. However, if overused or used inappropriately, it may come across as overly enthusiastic or insincere.

Final Thoughts About "You Are More Than Welcome"

The idiom "you are more than welcome" communicates an eagerness to help or a high level of gratitude. It signifies an enthusiastic openness or willingness to assist, often going above and beyond the norm.

Key aspects of the phrase:

  • Depicts a high level of willingness or gratitude
  • Indicates an enthusiastic or emphatic response
  • It can be used both personally and professionally

Remember that the idiom embodies the speaker's willingness to extend assistance or to express deep gratitude. It's a phrase that communicates an attitude of openness and readiness to go the extra mile.

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