Here is another round of back to basics in Japanese.  These expressions are often used and good to know as you interact with your friends and acquaintances.

ごくろうさまです。　（ご苦労様です）(gokuro sama desu)

You often say this to a person who worked hard all day or did something for you. In English, it is more like, “Thank you for all your hard work.”

おつかれさまです。（お疲れ様です）(Otsukare sama desu)

This is very similar to the one above, but in my opinion, this expression is a bit more casual. You often say this to a dad or mom after long day of work. Or if you see your friend working hard on something, you can say this to her/him as well.   It is a very common expression.

おまちどうさまでした。（お待ち同様でした）(Omachi dou sama deshita)

This expression is used when you want to express your appreciation to someone who has been waiting to see you. In English, this would be, “I am sorry to have kept you waiting.” This is often used at the restaurant when a server brings food to your table, or store clerk brings something to you after spending some time looking for things for you. You can also use this among your friend, when you meet up with someone.

しつれいします。（失礼します。）(shitsurei shimasu)

When entering into a room at the school or office, you often use this expression.  Shitsurei shimasu means “Excuse me.”  This expression is also used when you are passing in front of someone, in a public places such as shopping center, theater, etc..

しつれいしました。（失礼しました）(shitsurei shimashita)

This is a past tense of the above.  It is commonly used when you bump into someone or interrupt their work or situation.  In English, this will be expressed as , “Sorry about that.”

おかげさまで。(Okage sama de)

This is often used when someone asks you, how you are doing. You start your response with this expression. In English, this is expressed as , “thanks to you, ..”, or “Thankfully”. Even though the person you are talking to did not really help you, it also has a meaning of “Thankfully” or “Thanks for asking”.  Using this expression just shows that you are being polite and showing your appreciation.