ごちそうさま (Gochisousama): When 'Thank you for the meal' isn't about food 😋

Anyone studying Japanese surely knows the magic phrase after every meal is 「ごちそうさまでした」 (Gochisousama deshita) to express gratitude for the delicious meal. But what if you hear a Japanese person say this when there's no food in sight? 🤔

Welcome to one of the most interesting and 'native-like' uses of 「ごちそうさま」!

---

💖 When is "Gochisousama" used without food?

The answer is: When you witness a sweet, romantic scene between other people.

In casual Vietnamese terms, it's when you're being fed "dog food" (seeing couples display affection). Instead of being envious, the Japanese have a subtle way of joking about it by saying 「ごちそうさま」.

The underlying meaning is:

"Oh, the sweet scene between you two is like a feast/a delicious dessert. I feel 'full' just watching!"

This is a playful way to tease them, while also wishing them well in their happiness.

🚀 Real-life situations

1. When your best friend tells you about a wonderful date:

   • Friend: 「昨日、彼氏がサプライズで指輪をくれたんだ！」 (Yesterday, my boyfriend surprised me with a ring!)
   • You: 「えー、なにそれ！ラブラブじゃん！はいはい、ごちそうさま！🙏」 (Whoa, what's that! So lovey-dovey! Alright, alright, thanks for the 'meal'!)

2. When you see a colleague receive a bento box from their spouse:

   • (Colleague A opens a beautifully prepared bento box from his wife)
   • You (to colleague B): 「いいね、愛妻弁当。ごちそうさまです〜」 (Nice, a beloved wife's bento. We've been 'treated' to a feast for the eyes~)

3. When scrolling through social media and seeing friends post couple photos:

   • You can leave a short comment: 「ごちそうさま！😂」

⚠️ A small note

• This is a casual, informal expression. Only use it with friends and close colleagues.
• It's meant to be teasing and cheerful. Be sure to use it with a smile!

Next time you see someone spreading 'sweetness' for free, you know what to say. Give it a try, and your Japanese friends will surely laugh at how 'savvy' you are! 😉