WORDS of the Past

[Gemme]

Originally Posted by Orema

Why?

I think "no problem" is an acknowledgment of thank you. As is "good," "glad it worked out," "glad I could help," "no worries," etc.

Is it that "no problem" implies it couldn't have been a problem (or something else that may not be right with that exact reply) or is it that "you're welcome" is the only proper response?

Just curious.

I grew up with 'you're welcome' as the one and only appropriate response to 'thank you' so I'm sure my old-fashionedness plays into it. It feels as if this shift to 'no problem' is just another sign of common courtesy waning away. It feels very egocentric and impersonal to me. There's no connection there.

If I thank someone, I'm thanking THEM for whatever service or act they've done on my behalf and whatever extra work they've gone through to resolve whatever issue is there. If they say you're welcome, they are saying that "I" am welcome. They are seeing my thanks and acknowledgment of the work they've done and responding in like with a personal acceptance and acknowledgement. 'No problem' has nothing to do with me or with my thanks. It's all about them and whether it was, literally, a problem for them to do their job or provide a service. For me, 'no problem' feels like a pimply faced teen with their face buried in their IPhone, barely acknowledging my words or the sentiment behind them as they half-ass their way through my order or whatever service they are supposed to provide. I want the adult response to my adult appreciation, please. Manners can go a long way.

I'm showing my age today.