What is Gratitude? Meaning & How to Express Deep Appreciation

Gratitude is a meaningful act expressing appreciation, thankfulness, and deep remembrance of the contributions, help, or sacrifices of others. Originating from Sino-Vietnamese, "tri" means to know, to remember, while "ân" refers to sentiment, favor, creating the core meaning of gratitude that goes beyond emotion and is concretized through action.

The concept of gratitude has been deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture across generations, from the teaching "When you drink water, remember the source" to customs and practices that express filial piety and respect. Gratitude is not merely a thank you; it is a deep awareness of the value of the good things one has received, and from that, a desire to reciprocate with specific, sincere actions.

The meaning of gratitude

Gratitude brings great value to each individual and the community.

Personality development

Gratitude contributes to building good moral character, encouraging a responsible lifestyle, and always looking back to one's roots and family. When a person recognizes the kindness they have received, they tend to live more responsibly, appreciate what they have, and cherish the relationships around them more. This is the foundation for forming a noble character, knowing how to love, share, and live a meaningful life. In Vietnamese society, filial piety, a beautiful expression of gratitude towards parents and ancestors, is considered a top important moral quality.

Human engagement

Gratitude is an essential bridge that helps strengthen relationships, foster trust, love, and mutual respect within the community and society. When an act of gratitude is performed, it not only brings joy to the recipient but also strengthens the emotional bond between the two parties. Gratitude creates a positive cycle where people are willing to help and support each other, building a united and strong community. Family gatherings during Lunar New Year, or the Hung Kings Commemoration Day, are ways for Vietnamese people to express gratitude to their ancestors and reinforce family ties.

Building credibility

Especially in the business sector, showing gratitude to customers and partners creates sustainable prestige, fosters loyalty, and opens up many potential new cooperation opportunities. A grateful business will be trusted and loved by its customers. For example, Co.opmart's "Loyalty Card" programs or Viettel's "Loyalty Customer" programs, with point accumulation, birthday gifts, or special offers for long-term customers, are concrete examples of how Vietnamese brands build prestige through gratitude. This not only retains existing customers but also attracts new ones, creating a sustainable business foundation.

Common forms of expressing gratitude

There are many ways to express gratitude, from the smallest gestures to larger-scale actions, but the core lies in sincerity.

Sincere thanks

A heartfelt thank you or message conveys gratitude deeply. Sometimes, just a sincere "Thank you very much for helping me" is enough to connect people. In Vietnamese culture, using respectful pronouns and a slight bow is also a way to express gratitude and respect.

Meaningful gifts

Choosing and giving gifts that have spiritual or practical value is a clear way to show appreciation and affection. A gift doesn't necessarily have to be expensive; what matters is that it shows care and understanding for the recipient. For example, giving a bouquet of phalaenopsis orchids to teachers on Vietnamese Teachers' Day 20/11, or a box of mooncakes to business partners, both demonstrate gratitude and a desire to maintain good relationships. The spiritual value of a gift is often many times greater than its material value.

Celebrating activities

Organizing events, honoring ceremonies, or participating in fundraising activities and community support are highly community-oriented ways of showing gratitude. The commemoration ceremonies for Invalids and Martyrs' Day on July 27th or the "Gratitude and Repayment" programs nationwide are vivid examples of honoring those who sacrificed for the Fatherland. These activities not only honor merited individuals but also educate the younger generation about the value of gratitude and dedication.

Practical actions

Performing small but caring acts, contributing positively to the community, or striving to complete assigned tasks well are also effective forms of gratitude. Sincerity is the key factor; one should not overemphasize material value. A child who meticulously cares for elderly parents, an employee who tirelessly strives to complete assigned tasks well, or a volunteer who dedicates time to help the less fortunate—all are practical and meaningful acts of gratitude.

Examples of acts of gratitude

Gratitude is expressed in various ways in the daily lives of Vietnamese people.

• Students express their gratitude to teachers on Vietnamese Teachers' Day November 20th with bouquets of flowers and meaningful wishes. Many schools in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City also organize art performances and wall newspaper competitions to show their appreciation for the teachers' contributions, embodying the beautiful tradition of "Respecting teachers and revering morality."

• Businesses organize annual loyalty programs for their valued customers, offering special promotions or valuable gifts. For example, Vingroup regularly has preferential programs for Vinhomes residents, and airlines like Vietnam Airlines have their Golden Lotus Plus program with many benefits for members. These programs not only retain customers but also show appreciation for those who have trusted and accompanied the business.

• Children show filial piety, obedience, and thoughtful care for their parents in old age. This is one of the most basic and important expressions of gratitude in East Asian culture in general and Vietnamese culture in particular. Children visiting their parents during holidays, giving gifts, or simply spending time talking, are all ways to show deep gratitude for their parents' sacrifices in giving birth and raising them.

• Contribute to the cause of national construction and defense through specific actions, no matter how small. From contributing to the COVID-19 vaccine fund with hundreds of billions of VND from individuals and businesses, to participating in environmental protection campaigns, or simply maintaining traffic safety and order, these are all ways for every Vietnamese citizen to show gratitude to the land and people that have nurtured them.

Gratitude is not just a concept, but an indispensable part of the Vietnamese way of life and culture. It is a red thread running through, connecting generations, building strong relationships, and creating a humane, compassionate society.