#21 Phrases for Shopping at a Market｜English Expressions for Shopping
Izumi English Morning
#41 Giving a Gift｜English Daily Life Phrases
Izumi
There are many occasions when we give gifts—birthdays, special celebrations, or souvenirs during travels.
When offering a present, being able to say expressions like “Please accept this if you’d like” or “I hope you like it” in English allows you to convey your feelings warmly and naturally.
In this article, I explain useful English phrases for giving gifts and expressions that help make the interaction smooth and pleasant.
Contents
Dialogue
I got you something. I hope you like it.
Oh, thank you! You didn’t have to get me anything.
It’s just a small gift. I thought it might be useful for you.
This is lovely. Thank you so much.
I’m glad you like it.
1. Expressions for Giving a Gift
This is one of the most common expressions when offering a present:
- I got you something.
Using the intentionally vague word “something” creates a humble and gentle tone.
Other natural expressions include:
- I got this for you.
- I have a little gift for you.
→ “a little” adds a polite, modest nuance.
Each of these phrases allows you to give a present without sounding pushy or imposing.
2. Expressing Warm Feelings
When giving a gift, “I hope you like it.” is a phrase you definitely want to remember.
- I hope you like it.
The key point is the gentle nuance created by “hope”—it allows you to express your feelings softly and politely.
This puts the emphasis not on the value of the gift, but on your wish for the recipient’s happiness.
Other variations include:
- I hope it’s useful.
- I hope it fits.
- I hope you enjoy it.
“I hope ～” is a polite and versatile expression suitable for any relationship.
3. Phrases Used by the Recipient
A commonly used phrase when receiving a present is:
- You didn’t have to get me anything.
This literally means “You didn’t need to buy me anything,” and expresses surprise, appreciation, and modesty at the same time.
Similar expressions include:
- You shouldn’t have!
- That’s very kind of you.
4. Introducing Your Gift Modestly
These expressions are useful when you want to present your gift humbly:
- It’s just a small gift.
The word “just” adds a soft, modest tone, and “small gift” works well for birthdays, souvenirs, and simple thank-you gestures.
Other modest phrases include:
- It’s nothing big, but…
- It’s just something little.
- I thought you might like this.
English often favors expressions that feel gentle and not overly assertive.
Summary
- I got you something.
→ A modest and friendly expression for offering a gift. - I hope you like it.
→ A polite phrase that expresses your hope that the recipient will enjoy the gift. - You didn’t have to get me anything.
→ A common expression used by the recipient to show gratitude and modesty. - It’s just a small gift.
→ A humble way to introduce a simple present.
