Thanks, etc.

The phrases "thanks," "thanks for," and "thanks to" all express gratitude, but they are used in slightly different contexts:

"Thanks": This is a simple expression of gratitude that can be used on its own. For example, if someone does something kind for you, you might say "Thanks" to show your appreciation.

"Thanks for": This phrase is used to express gratitude for a specific action or thing. For example, you might say "Thanks for helping me with my homework" or "Thanks for the wonderful gift."

"Thanks to": This phrase is used when you want to acknowledge someone or something that enabled a positive outcome or played a pivotal role in a situation. For example, you might say "Thanks to my friend's support, I was able to achieve my goals" or "Thanks to the good weather, we had a great picnic."

So, the differences lie in whether the gratitude is expressed generally ("thanks"), specifically ("thanks for"), or attributing the gratitude to someone or something ("thanks to").