conjunction
likewise, same to you
B1
"Gleichfalls" means "likewise" or "same to you", used to return greetings, wishes or compliments. Grammatically it's an adverb/interjection used alone (e.g., "Gleichfalls!"). It is invariable, not reflexive, takes no special preposition, and is common in polite spoken and written German.
Examples
Der Direktor gratulierte der Managerin, und der Vorstand sagte gleichfalls, dass er ihre Arbeit schätzte.
The director congratulated the manager, and the board likewise said that it appreciated her work.
Er wünschte mir viel Erfolg, und ich sagte gleichfalls.
He wished me good luck, and I replied 'likewise'.
Danke, gleichfalls!
Thanks — same to you!
Details
Mnemonics
Imagine two people raising glasses to each other and both saying the same wish — an echo: 'gleichfalls'.
Think 'gleich' (same) + 'falls' (case) → 'in that case, the same'.
Notes
'Gleichfalls' is commonly used as a polite response to wishes or greetings (like 'same to you' or 'likewise'). Although often classified as an adverb/response word, the input lists it as a conjunction.