What does "thanks in anticipation" mean?

[ChristmasCarol]

Could someone explain what 'Thanks in anticipation' exactly means? In my dictionary it says that anticipation means 'preventation' and 'expectation', but I still can figure out what 'Thanks in anticipation' means. I know what 'Thanks in advance' means, but it isn't exactly the same, is it?

Thanks in advance

[MrPedantic]

Hello CC,

I always take it to mean:

1. In the expectation that you will be kind enough to provide help, I thank you in advance.

Best wishes,

MrP

[Nessie]

Hi MrP,
I just want to ask which of the two expressions ("Thank you in advance" and "Thank you in anticipation") is more common (I myself have never heard "Thank you in anticipation so far) and if there is any slight difference between them (i.e: formality)

Many thanks
Nessie
_________________
... something we never have again, I know... I guess I really really know..

Sorry seems to be the hardest word...

[MrPedantic]

Hello Nessie,

My impression is that "Thanks/Thank you in advance" is the more common; I don't think "Thank you in anticipation" would be any more formal than "Thank you in advance" – in terms of formality, the distinction would be between "thanks" and "thank you".

Have a pleasant Monday,

MrP