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Archive for the 'Thai Grammar' Category

Best Guide to Learn Connecting Words in Thai

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Knowing Thai conjunction words enables you to communicate clearly and also makes your conversation sound smooth. Thus, connecting words in Thai are an important aspect of the Thai language. By learning them, you’ll be able to communicate like a native.

To help you master your Thai conjunctions, we’ll outline several key points in this article:

  • Thai conjunctions definition
  • A Thai conjunctions list with detailed explanations of each one
  • Thai conjunctions in sentences and how to use them

Are you ready to learn Thai conjunctions? Let’s get started!

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Table of Contents

  1. Conjunctions in Thai
  2. Thai Conjunctions Used to Link Sentences with Similar Meanings
  3. Thai Conjunctions Used to Express Opposition
  4. Thai Conjunctions Used to Express Alternatives
  5. Thai Conjunctions Used to Link Cause and Result
  6. How ThaiPod101 Can Help You Master Thai Grammar

1. Conjunctions in Thai

Sentence Patterns

Let’s start this lesson with some basic knowledge about Thai conjunctions. Below we’ll explain their definition and functions, and the types of Thai conjunctions. And if you’re asking yourself “What are Thai linking words in writing?” you’ll find the answer here as well.

คำสันธาน (kham sǎn-thaan) is “conjunction” in Thai. Thai people use conjunctions to link sentences, which helps them convey their message through communication better. In order words, Thai conjunctions help shorten sentences or phrases, and makes them sound smoother.

There are four types of Thai language conjunctions, categorized by their functions. Each of them will be explained in detail with examples, as follows.

2. Thai Conjunctions Used to Link Sentences with Similar Meanings

Improve Listening

The first type of Thai conjunction in our list of Thai conjunctions is คำสันธานที่เชื่อมความคล้อยตามกัน (kham sǎn-thaan thîi chûueam khwaam khláauy dtaam gan). This type of conjunction is used to link sentences or phrases with same-directioned meaning. Here are list of Thai conjunctions used to link sentences with similar meaning that you should know;

1- “And”

Thai: ละ (láe); กับ (gàp)

Usage: The Thai coordinating conjunctions และ (láe) and กับ (gàp) are used to link sentences that have similar meanings. Most of the time, the pattern used is noun + และ (láe), กับ (gàp) + noun or phrase + และ (láe), กับ (gàp) + phrase.

Example 1:

  • พ่อและแม่ชอบกินก๋วยเตี๋ยว
  • Phâaw láe mâae châawp gin gǔuai-dtǐiao
  • “Father and mother like noodles.”

Example 2:

  • ฉันเอาข้าวผัดกับไข่ดาว
  • Chǎn ao khâao phàt gàp khài daao
  • “I want fried rice and fried egg.”

Additional note: และ (láe) and กับ (gàp) are Thai linking words with the same meaning and can 100% substitute each other.

2- “Both…and…”

Thai: ทั้ง…และ… (tháng…láe…)

Usage: The Thai correlative conjunction ทั้ง…และ… (tháng…láe…) is always used as it is here, with both words. Its meaning and usage is the same as it is in English.

Example:

  • ทั้งพี่ชายและน้องสาวชอบกินขนมปัง
  • Tháng phîi-chaai láe náawng-sǎao châawp gin khà-nǒm-bpang
  • Both the older brother and the younger sister like to eat bread.”

Delicious Bread

3- “After…, …”

Thai: …แล้ว… (…láaeo…); พอ…แล้ว… (phaaw…láaeo…)

Usage: The Thai subordinating conjunctions …แล้ว… (…láaeo…) and พอ…แล้ว… (phaaw…láaeo…) are both used as a word that links sentences, explaining two actions that happen continuously. The patterns of sentences using this Thai conjunction are listed below:

  • [Sentence of action that happens first] + แล้ว (láaeo) + [sentence of action that happens later]
  • พอ (phaaw) + [sentence of action that happens first] + แล้ว (láaeo) + [sentence of action that happens later]

Example 1:

  • กินข้าวแล้วค่อยกินยา
  • Gin khâao láaeo khâauy gin yaa
  • “Take the medicine after the meal.”

Take Medicine After Meal

Example 2:

  • พออาบน้ำแล้วฉันก็นอนเลย
  • Phaaw àap-nám láaeo chǎn gâaw naawn looei
  • “After taking a bath, I went straight to bed.”

Additional note: …แล้ว… (…láaeo…) and พอ…แล้ว… (phaaw…láaeo…) are Thai linking words with the same meaning and can 100% substitute each other.

3. Thai Conjunctions Used to Express Opposition

The second type of Thai conjunction is คำสันธานที่เชื่อมใจความขัดแย้งกัน (kham sǎn-thaan thîi chûueam jai-khwaam khàt-yáaeng gan). This type of conjunction is used to link sentences or phrases with opposing meanings. Here is our list of Thai conjunctions used to express opposition that you should know.

1- “But”

Thai: แต่ (dtàae); แต่ว่า (dtàae-wâa)

Usage: The Thai coordinating conjunctions แต่ (dtàae) and แต่ว่า (dtàae-wâa) are used to link sentences that have opposing meanings. The pattern that’s normally used is sentence + แต่ (dtàae) or แต่ว่า (dtàae-wâa) + sentence.

Example 1:

  • ฉันชอบสีฟ้าแต่พี่สาวชอบสีแดง
  • Chǎn châawp sǐi fáa dtàae phîi-sǎao châawp sǐi daaeng
  • “I like blue, but my older sister likes red.”

Favorite Color

Example 2:

  • เพื่อนของฉันเก่งเลขมากแต่ว่าอ่อนภาษาอังกฤษ
  • Phûuean khǎawng chǎn gèeng lêek mâak dtàae-wâa àawn phaa-sǎa ang-grìt
  • “My friend is very good at Math but bad at English.”

Additional note: แต่ (dtàae) and แต่ว่า (dtàae-wâa) are Thai conjunctions with the same meaning and can 100% substitute each other. Also, แต่ (dtàae) and แต่ว่า (dtàae-wâa) can also be translated as “yet” in Thai.

2- “However”

Thai: อย่างไรก็ตาม (yàang-rai gâaw dtaam)

Usage: The subordinating conjunction อย่างไรก็ตาม (yàang-rai gâaw dtaam) is used to link sentences with opposing meanings. The pattern that’s normally used is sentence + อย่างไรก็ตาม (yàang-rai gâaw dtaam) + sentence.

Example 1:

  • วันนี้อากาศมีมลพิษมาก อย่างไรก็ตาม หลายคนยังไม่ใส่หน้ากากเมื่อออกไปข้างนอก
  • Wan-níi aa-gàat mii mon-lá-phít mâak yàang-rai gâaw dtaam lǎai khon yang mâi sài nâa-gàak mûuea àawk bpai khâang-nâawk
  • “Today, air pollution is very bad. However, many people don’t wear facial masks when they go outside.”

Additional note: The meanings of แต่ (dtàae), แต่ว่า (dtàae-wâa), and อย่างไรก็ตาม (yàang-rai gâaw dtaam) are pretty much the same. However, Thai people use อย่างไรก็ตาม (yàang-rai gâaw dtaam) in more formal situations.

3- “Although” / “Despite” / “In spite of”

Thai: ทั้ง ๆ ที่…(แต่)… (tháng-tháng-thîi…[dtàae]…)

Usage: The subordinating conjunction ทั้ง ๆ ที่…(แต่)… (tháng-tháng-thîi…[dtàae]…) is used to link sentences or phrases with opposing meanings. There are two ways to use this Thai conjunction. You can either put แต่ (dtàae) between the sentences or skip it. The pattern that’s normally used is ทั้ง ๆ ที่ (tháng-tháng-thîi) + sentence + (แต่ [dtàae]) + sentence.

Example 1:

  • ทั้ง ๆ ที่เธอสวยมาก แต่เธอกลับไม่เคยมีแฟนเลย
  • Tháng-tháng-thîi thooe sǔuai mâak dtàae thooe glàp mâi khooei mii faaen looei
  • Despite being so beautiful, she’s never had a boyfriend before.”

Example 2:

  • ทั้ง ๆ ที่อากาศหนาว เขายังกินไอศครีมอีก
  • Tháng-tháng-thîi aa-gàat nǎao khǎo yang gin ai-sà-khriim ìik
  • In spite of cold weather, he still eats ice cream.”

4- “By the time…, …”

Thai: กว่า…ก็… (gwàa..gâaw…)

Usage: The Thai conjunction กว่า…ก็… (gwàa..gâaw…) is used to link sentences and phrases (or a sentence and another sentence) with opposing meanings. This Thai connecting word in English is like “by the time…, …” and is used the same way. The patterns that are normally used are as follows:

  • กว่า (gwàa) + sentence + ก็ (gâaw) + phrase
  • กว่า (gwàa) + sentence + subject of second sentence + ก็ (gâaw) + the rest of second sentence

Example 1:

  • กว่าเธอจะทำการบ้านเสร็จ ก็ถึงเวลานอนพอดี
  • Gwàa thooe jà tham gaan-bâan sèt gâaw thǔeng wee-laa naawn phaaw-dii
  • By the time she finishes her homework, it will be her bedtime.”

Example 2:

  • กว่าเธอจะพร้อมมาช่วยฉัน ฉันก็คงทำเสร็จไปแล้ว
  • Gwàa thooe jà phráawm maa chûuai chǎn chǎn gâaw khong tham sèt bpai láaeo
  • By the time you’re ready to help me, I will have already finished it.”

4. Thai Conjunctions Used to Express Alternatives

The third type of Thai conjunction is คำสันธานที่เชื่อมใจความให้เลือกอย่างใดอย่างหนึ่ง (kham sǎn- thaan thîi chûueam jai-khwaam hâi lûueak yàang dai yàang nùeng). This type of conjunction is used to link alternatives. Here is our list of Thai conjunctions in English used to express alternatives that you should know.

1- “Or”

Thai: หรือ (rǔue)

Usage: The Thai coordinating conjunction หรือ (rǔue) is used to show alternatives. The pattern that’s normally used is alternative 1 + หรือ (rǔue) + alternative 2.

Example :

  • เธอจะกินไข่ต้มหรือไข่เจียว
  • Thooe jà gin khài dtôm rǔue khài jiiao
  • “Do you want a boiled egg or omelette?”

Boiled Egg or Omelette?

2- “Either…or…”

Thai: ไม่…ก็… (mâi…gâaw…); หรือไม่ก็ (rǔue mâi gâaw)

Usage: The Thai correlative conjunctions ไม่…ก็… (mâi…gâaw…) and หรือไม่ก็ (rǔue mâi gâaw) are used to show alternatives. The patterns that are normally used are:

  • ไม่ (mâi) + alternative 1 + ก็ (gâaw) + alternative 2
  • alternative 1 + หรือไม่ก็ (rǔue mâi gâaw) + alternative 2

Example 1:

  • พรุ่งนี้น้องชายต้องใส่เสื้อไม่สีขาวก็สีฟ้า
  • Phrûng-níi náawng chaai dtâawng sài sûuea mâi sǐi khǎao gâww sǐi fáa
  • “Tomorrow, my younger brother has to wear either a white or blue shirt.”

Example 2:

  • ฉันอยากเลี้ยงปลาหรือไม่ก็กระต่าย
  • Chǎn yàak líiang bplaa rǔue mâi gâaw grà-dtàai
  • “I want either a fish or rabbit as my pet.”

My Pet

Additional note: ไม่…ก็… (mâi…gâaw…) and หรือไม่ก็ (rǔue mâi gâaw) are Thai linking words with the same meaning and can 100% substitute each other.

3- “Or else” and “Otherwise”

Thai: ไม่อย่างนั้น (mâi yàang nán); ไม่เช่นนั้น (mâi chêen nán); มิฉะนั้น…ก็ (mí chà-nán…gâaw)

Usage: The Thai conjunctions ไม่อย่างนั้น (mâi yàang nán), ไม่เช่นนั้น (mâi chêen nán), and มิฉะนั้น…ก็ (mí chà-nán… gâaw) are used to show forced alternatives. If alternative 1 isn’t chosen, then it will be alternative 2. The patterns that are normally used are:

  • alternative 1 + ไม่อย่างนั้น (mâi yàang nán) + alternative 2
  • alternative 1 + ไม่เช่นนั้น (mâi chêen nán) + alternative 2
  • alternative 1 + มิฉะนั้น (mí chà-nán) + subject of alternative 2, if any + ก็ (gâaw) + the rest of alternative 2

Example 1:

  • นักเรียนต้องออกจากบ้านแต่เช้า ไม่อย่างนั้น จะไปโรงเรียนสาย
  • Nák-riian dtâawng àawk jàak bâan dtàae cháo mâi yàang nán jà bpai roong-riian sǎai
  • “The student has to leave their home early or else they will be late for school.”

Example 2:

  • พนักงานต้องปฏิบัติตามกฎ ไม่เช่นนั้น จะโดนไล่ออก
  • Phá-nák-ngaan dtâawng bpà-dtì-bàt dtaam gòt mâi chêen nán jà doon lâi-àawk
  • “Staff members have to obey the rules, otherwise they will be fired.”

Example 3:

  • คุณต้องตอบกลับภายใน 24 ชั่วโมง มิฉะนั้นก็จะถือว่าสละสิทธิ
  • Khun dtâawng dtàawp glàp phaai nai yîi-sìp-sìi chûua-mong mí chà-nán gâaw jà thǔue wâa sà-là-sìt
  • “You have to reply within 24 hours, or else it’s considered to be a waiver.”

Additional note: Among these three conjunctions, despite having the same meaning, ไม่อย่างนั้น (mâi yàang nán) is the most casual one. Thai people often use ไม่อย่างนั้น (mâi yàang nán) in oral conversations. On the other hand, ไม่เช่นนั้น (mâi chêen nán) and มิฉะนั้น…ก็ (mí chà-nán…gâaw) are more formal, so they’re often used in written language.

5. Thai Conjunctions Used to Link Cause and Result

Improve Listening Part 2

The last type of Thai conjunction is คำสันธานที่เชื่อมใจความเป็นเหตุเป็นผลกัน (kham sǎn-thaan thîi chûueam jai-khwaam bpen hèet bpen phǒn gan). This type of conjunction is used to link sentences that show cause and result together. Here’s our list of Thai conjunctions to link cause and result that you should know.

1- Because

Thai: เพราะ (phráw); เพราะว่า (phráw wâa); ฉะนั้น…จึง… (chà-nán…jueng)

Usage: The Thai subordinating conjunctions เพราะ (phráw), เพราะว่า (phráw wâa), and ฉะนั้น…จึง… (chà-nán…jueng) are used to show the cause and result of an event. The patterns that are normally used are:

  • result + เพราะ (phráw) + cause
  • result +เพราะว่า (phráw wâa) + cause
  • cause + ฉะนั้น (chà-nán) + subject of reason sentence + จึง (jueng) + the rest of reason sentence

Example 1:

  • น้ำสอบตก เพราะ ไม่ตั้งใจเรียน
  • Nám sàawp dtòk phráw mâi dtâng-jai riian
  • “Nam didn’t pass the test because she didn’t pay attention in class.”

Example 2:

  • น้อยไม่สบาย เพราะ ทานอาหารไม่สะอาด
  • Náauy mâi sà-baai phráw thaan aa-hǎan mâi sà-àat
  • “Noi is sick because she eats unhealthy food.”

Example 3:

  • วันนี้อากาศร้อนมาก ฉะนั้น ฉันจึงไม่ออกไปข้างนอก
  • Wan-níi aa-gàat ráawn mâak chà-nán chǎn jueng mâi àawk bpai khâang nâawk
  • Because the weather is very hot today, I decided not to go out.”

Additional note: เพราะ (phráw) and เพราะว่า (phráw-wâa) are Thai linking words with the same meaning and can 100% substitute each other. Keep in mind that ฉะนั้น…จึง… (chà-nán…jueng) is normally used in written language.

2- “So,” “Therefore,” and “Thus”

Thai: เพราะฉะนั้น (phráw chà-nán); ดังนั้น (dang-nán)

Usage: The Thai conjunction words เพราะฉะนั้น (phráw chà-nán) and ดังนั้น (dang-nán) are used to show the cause and result of an event. The patterns that are normally used are cause + เพราะฉะนั้น (phráw chà-nán) or ดังนั้น (dang-nán) + result.

Example 1:

  • คุณพ่ออยากสุขภาพแข็งแรง เพราะฉะนั้น ท่านเลยออกกำลังกายทุกวัน
  • Khun phâaw yàak sùk-khà-phâap khǎeng-raaeng phráw chà-nán thâan looei àawk-gam-lang-gaai thúk-wan
  • “My father wants to be healthy so he exercises everyday.”

Example 2:

  • ตรงนี้รถเยอะมาก ดังนั้น ข้ามถนนต้องระวัง
  • Dtrong níi rót yóe mâak dang-nán khâam thà-nǒn dtâawng rá-wang
  • “There are a lot of cars in this area, thus you have to be careful when you cross the road.”

Additional note: เพราะฉะนั้น (phráw chà-nán) and ดังนั้น (dang-nán) are Thai linking words with the same meaning and can 100% substitute each other.

6. How ThaiPod101 Can Help You Master Thai Grammar

How are you doing with this topic so far? We hope this topic isn’t too difficult for you!

As you can see, how to use many of these words is similar to doing so in the English language. So with a little practice, you can excel in this in no time. If you know Thai people, try using some of these Thai conjunctions when talking with them! Thai people will find it easier to understand the conversation that way.

If you find that Thai conjunctions are very different from those in your native language, or you’re just having some difficulty with them, let us know in the comments!

And after finishing this lesson, you should continue learning with another enjoyable lesson at ThaiPod101.com, such as the numbers 1-10 in Thai or popular food souvenirs. Have fun studying Thai!

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Thai Customs: Best Guide to Etiquette in Thailand

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Those who have been to many countries are likely to know that people, despite being the same in many aspects, are different because of culture, customs, and values. Everyone has to eat, sleep, and interact with other people. So how do these actions differ in Thailand, compared to elsewhere?

If you need to interact with Thai people or plan on living in Thailand, knowing about Thailand customs, culture facts, social values, beliefs, and traditions is essential. To fit in with the rest of the Thai population and show respect, you need to know about them, especially Thai culture and etiquette.

In this article, ThaiPod101.com will teach you about Thai etiquette in daily life situations, such as Thai eating etiquette, Thai funeral etiquette, Thai business etiquette, and Thai etiquette for tourists, so you know all the do’s and don’ts in Thailand. Moreover, you’ll get to know more about tradition and culture in Thailand through this lesson.

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Table of Contents

  1. Words about Thai Customs
  2. Useful Sentence Patterns to Discuss General Etiquette in Thailand
  3. Thai Dining Etiquette
  4. Manners and Etiquette in Thailand: Thai Tourist Etiquette
  5. Thai Greeting Etiquette
  6. Thai Guest Etiquette
  7. Thai Etiquette in Public Transportation
  8. Thai Business Etiquette
  9. Thai Etiquette in Various Situations
  10. Conclusion: How ThaiPod101 Can Help You Master Thai Culture

1. Words about Thai Customs

Before you learn about Thai customs, it will be good to know Thai words related to this topic.

  • ขนบธรรมเนียมไทย (khà-nòp-tham-niiam thai) is “Thai custom” or “Thai tradition”
  • มารยาทไทย (maa-rá-yàat thai) is “Thai etiquette” or “Thai manners”
  • วัฒนธรรมไทย (wát-thá-ná-tham thai) is “Thai culture
  • ความเชื่อไทย (khwaam-chûuea thai) is “Thai belief”
  • ค่านิยมไทย (khâa-ní-yom thai) is “Thai value”
  • สังคมไทย (sǎng-khom thai) is “Thai society”

2. Useful Sentence Patterns to Discuss General Etiquette in Thailand

Let’s learn the sentence patterns you should know when you talk about Thai etiquette and manners. There are two patterns as listed below:

1- Should…

Thai language: ควร + verb

Thai pronunciation: khuuan + …..

Example:

  • แขกควรถอดรองเท้าก่อนเข้าบ้านคนไทย
    khàaek khuuan thàawt raawng-tháo gàawn khâo bâan khon thai
    “Guests should take off their shoes before entering a Thai house.”

2- Don’t…

Thai language: อย่า + verb

Thai pronunciation: yàa + …..

Example:

  • อย่าจับหัวคนไทยโดยไม่จำเป็น
    yàa jàp hŭua khon thai dooi mâi jam bpen
    “Don’t touch the head of a Thai person unless it’s necessary.”

3. Thai Dining Etiquette

Hygiene

Since eating is part of daily life, we’ll first teach you Thai table manners and dining etiquette in Thailand. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn’t do during a meal with Thai people. As long as you follow these basic rules of eating etiquette in Thailand, you should have a very enjoyable Thai meal.

1- Let elders or people of a higher position eat first.

Thai sentence: ให้คนที่อายุมากกว่าหรือมีตำแหน่งสูงกว่าตักอาหารก่อน

Thai pronunciation: hâi khon thîi aa-yú mâak gwàa rǔue mii dtam-nàaeng sǔung gwàa dtàk aa-hăan gàawn

Explanation: In Thai society, people normally eat together as a big family. Each person has their own plate of rice, but shares side dishes with each other. It’s proper table etiquette in Thailand to let people who are older than you, or people who are in a higher position than you (such as your boss), start eating first. This means that they can pick food from the side dishes first.

2- Set the table for elders.

Thai sentence: จัดโต๊ะอาหารให้คนมีที่อายุมากกว่า

Thai pronunciation: jàt dtó aa-hǎan hâi khon thîi mii aa-yú mâak khwàa

Explanation: As mentioned above, people in Thai society normally eat together. In case the dining table isn’t properly set, the youngest one at the table should be the one who sets it.

3- Don’t speak while chewing.

Thai sentence: อย่าพูดตอนเคี้ยวอาหาร

Thai pronunciation: yàa phûut dtaawn khíiao aa-hǎan

Explanation: Speaking while chewing is considered bad restaurant etiquette in Thailand, and is rude for dining in general. Apart from not looking nice and other people not clearly understanding what’s said, this behavior may make the speaker choke on food. So you shouldn’t do this while dining with Thai people.

4- Don’t make noise when chewing or drinking.

Thai sentence: อย่าทานอาหารหรือดื่มน้ำเสียงดัง

Thai pronunciation: yàa thaan aa-hǎan rǔue dùuem nám sǐiang dang

Explanation: In some countries, making noise when eating shows that you enjoy the food. But in Thailand, it’s viewed as bad etiquette. When you eat in Thailand, avoid making loud noises while eating or drinking.

5- Don’t hit tableware.

Thai sentence: อย่าเคาะช้อนส้อม

Thai pronunciation: yàa kháw cháawn sâawm

Explanation: In the phrase above, its literal meaning only mentions spoons and forks. But actually, Thai people consider hitting all tableware items (such as spoons, forks, chopsticks, etc.) as rude.

6- Don’t talk about gross topics.

Thai sentence: อย่าคุยเรื่องน่าขยะแขยง

Thai pronunciation: yàa khui rûueang nâa khà-yà-khà-yǎaeng

Explanation: During the meal, you shouldn’t talk about something gross, as it will make others lose their appetite.

4. Manners and Etiquette in Thailand: Thai Tourist Etiquette

Thanks

Thailand is a nice place for traveling. There are many beautiful places to go sightseeing, the food tastes good, and Thai people are very nice. Moreover, the cost of living here isn’t high, so a lot of people enjoy traveling in Thailand.

As a tourist, it’s good to know some Thai manners and customs so that you don’t unintentionally act weird or rude in Thais’ point of view. To help you understand basic social etiquette in Thailand, we’ve provided a list of proper tourist etiquette in Thailand.

There are two main scenarios that we’ll focus on in this section: Basic etiquette in Thailand while in public areas, and how to act in holy places.

1- Thai Etiquette in Public Areas

Sightseeing is a must when you come to Thailand. Most tourists enjoy street food, shopping in the night market, or just seeing around the city. So it’s nice to know what you should and shouldn’t do.

1. No public displays of affection.

Thai sentence: อย่าแสดงความรักในที่สาธารณะมากจนเกินไป

Thai pronunciation: yàa sà-daaeng khwaam-rák nai thîi sǎa-thaa-raa-ná mâak jon gooen bpai

Explanation: In Thai society, some displays of affection between lovers is acceptable, such as holding hands or hugging. But any behavior more than this, such as kissing, isn’t okay. Thai people see it as inappropriate. But displays of affection between parent and child is okay.

No PDA

2. Be aware not to touch a monk if you’re female.

Thai sentence: ผู้หญิงต้องระวังอย่าให้โดนตัวพระ

Thai pronunciation: phûu-yǐng dtâawng rá-wang yàa hâi doon dtuua phrá

Explanation: Most Thai people are Buddhist, and in Thailand, beliefs and values of Buddhism are quite strong. It’s possible that you may see a monk walking by on the street. For a monk, there’s a rule saying that monks can’t touch a female, regardless of intention.

So if you see a Thai monk, and you’re a female, please uphold proper etiquette in Thailand and avoid being too close; you don’t want to accidentally touch the monk. If you’re walking in a crowded street and don’t know what to do, just stop walking and the monk will avoid you instead.

3. Stand still when you hear the Thai national anthem.

Thai sentence: ยืนตรงเคารพธงชาติ

Thai pronunciation: yuuen dtrong khao-róp thong-châat

Explanation: In some public areas, such as parks, you may hear the Thai national anthem at eight o’clock in the morning and again at six o’clock in the afternoon. When Thai people hear the national anthem, they stand still until the song ends, as a way to pay respect. So if you notice that Thai people have suddenly stopped walking and stand still at these times, it’s probably because of the national anthem.

4. Avoid dressing too short or too sexy.

Thai sentence: อย่าแต่งตัวโป๊

Thai pronunciation: yàa dtàaeng dtuua bpóo

Explanation: In Thailand, values and traditions for women may have changed a lot from the past, but women are still expected to dress properly when going outside. That is, don’t wear short-shorts or short skirts. Not wearing a bra is unacceptable as well. The customs and etiquette in Thailand for men’s dress isn’t as strict as it is for women; just dress with consideration for where you’ll be going.

2. Thai Etiquette in Holy Places

If you come to Thailand, one of the most famous tourist attractions are temples. Temples are viewed as holy places in Thailand, so you’re expected to follow certain cultural etiquette in Thailand when you’re in the temple. Here’s a list of do’s and don’ts for etiquette in Thai temples.

In the Temple

1. Dress properly.

Thai sentence: แต่งกายเรียบร้อย

Thai pronunciation: dtàaeng-gaai rîiap-ráauy

Explanation: It is the etiquette of Thailand to dress properly in the temple, both men and women. A shirt with no sleeves, shorts, and skirts that are shorter than knee-length aren’t appropriate to wear in temples. So if you plan to travel to a temple, please dress properly.

2.Don’t make loud noise.

Bad Phrases

Thai sentence: อย่าส่งเสียงดัง

Thai pronunciation: yàa sòng sǐiang dang

Explanation: Adding to what we mentioned above, temples are also a place where people come to make merit and practice dharma. Thus, temples normally have a calm atmosphere; you shouldn’t make loud noises in the temple.

3. No alcohol or cigarettes.

Thai sentence: ห้ามดื่มเหล้าและสูบบุหรี่

Thai pronunciation: hâam dùuem lâo láe sùup bù-rìi

Explanation: For Buddhists, there’s a behavior guideline called ศีล 5 (sǐin-hâa) which means “5 precepts.” Drinking alcohol and smoking are prohibited behaviors in these five precepts. So you can’t drink or smoke in the temple area. Also keep in mind that drinking and smoking are unhealthy as well.

No Drinking

4. Take off your shoes where required.

Thai sentence: ถอดรองเท้าในบริเวณที่กำหนด

Thai pronunciation: thàawt raawng-tháo nai baaw-rí-ween thîi gam-nòt

Explanation: In some areas, such as in the chapel, you have to take your shoes off. There will be a sign that clearly shows if you have to take your shoes off.

5. Do not take photos.

Thai sentence: ห้ามถ่ายรูป

Thai pronunciation: hâam thàai rûup

Explanation: In some areas of the temple, you’re not allowed to take photos. There will be a sign clearly showing if you’re not allowed to take photos, so please look around.

5. Thai Greeting Etiquette

Our guide of etiquette rules in Thailand wouldn’t be complete without a section on proper greetings.

When people meet, people greet. So if you come to Thailand, it makes sense to learn Thai greeting etiquette. Greetings reflect another unique aspect of culture and etiquette in Thailand, and we’ll explain the main points of greeting etiquette in Thailand as follows:

1- Say sà-wàt-dii + wâi

When Thai people meet each other, they greet by saying สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dii) and perform an action called ไหว้ (wâi). Let’s learn some vocabulary before continuing.

  • ไหว้ (wâi) is a way of greeting in Thai language.
  • สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dii) is “hello” in Thai. The word “hello” in Thai means goodness, beauty, prosperity, and safety.

To ไหว้ (wâi), you have to put your hands together in front of your chest and bend your head toward your forefinger.

2- Smile

Thai sentence: ยิ้ม

Thai pronunciation: yím

Explanation: If you’re not Thai or can’t speak much Thai, just smile after greeting. It creates a good atmosphere when you meet someone. As you may have heard before, Thailand is a land of smiles.

3- Call Other Parties by kun+name

When you meet someone for the first time, it’s formal to call them by คุณ (khun) + name. คุณ (khun) is a formal title in Thai.

4- Avoid Looking at Other Parties from Head to Toe

Thai sentence: อย่ามองคนจากหัวจรดเท้า

Thai pronunciation: yàa maawng khon jàak hǔua jà-ròt tháo

Explanation: Looking at other parties from head to toe isn’t exactly a rude gesture. However, some people do this action as a way of looking down on other people, so it may create the wrong impression if you do so.

6. Thai Guest Etiquette

When you come to Thailand, you may get a chance to visit a Thai house. Thus, it will be good to learn some Thai hospitality and etiquette so that you know what you can and can’t do, and act accordingly.

1- Take Off Your Shoes Before Entering the House

Thai sentence: ถอดรองเท้าก่อนเข้าบ้าน

Thai pronunciation: thàawt raawng-tháo gàawn khâo bâan

Explanation: Most Thai people walk barefoot in the house. So if you visit a Thai house, you have to take off your shoes before entering the house.

2- Stay in the Living Room

Thai sentence: อยู่ในห้องนั่งเล่น

Thai pronunciation: yùu nai hâawng nâng lên

Explanation: When you go to another person’s house, if you’re not close to the owner, it’s appropriate to stay mainly in the living room or in the area where the owner seated you. You shouldn’t go wandering by yourself. However, this also depends on the relationship between you and the owner.

3- Bring a Gift (though it’s not Necessary)

Thai sentence: เอาของมาฝากเจ้าของบ้าน

Thai pronunciation: ao khǎawng maa fàak jâo khǎawng bâan

Explanation: When you visit a Thai house, it would be nice to bring some kind of gift to them. Most of the time, when it comes to gift etiquette in Thailand, food and drinks are okay. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy. Again, what’s considered proper gift giving etiquette in Thailand also depends on the relationship between you and the owner of the house.

4- Avoid Putting Your Feet on the Table

Thai sentence: อย่าเอาเท้าวางบนโต๊ะ

Thai pronunciation: yàa ao tháo waang bon dtó

Explanation: Thai people view feet as being dirty. Thus, you shouldn’t put your feet on the tables or chairs.

5- Don’t Go into the Owner’s Belongings

Thai sentence: อย่ารื้อของในบ้านคนอื่น

Thai pronunciation: yàa rúue khǎawng nai bâan khon ùuen

Explanation: Even if you have a close relationship with the owner of the house, it may be inappropriate to look through things in drawers or cupboards. Things in those areas are kind of personal, but if the owner asks you to open it, then it’s okay.

7. Thai Etiquette in Public Transportation

When you travel in Thailand, you may get a chance to travel by public transportation, such as on a bus, BTS, MRT, etc. Here are the do’s and don’ts for transportation in Thailand that you should know.

1- Don’t Stand in Front of the Door

Thai sentence: อย่ายืนขวางประตู

Thai pronunciation: yàa yuuen khwǎang bprà-dtuu

Explanation: When you travel by bus, BTS, or MRT, try to get inside so that there’s space for others to come in. Avoid standing in front of the door, as this is dangerous and could lead to an accident.

2- Give Your Seat to Children, Monks, Elders, and Handicapped People

Thai sentence: เอื้อเฟื้อที่นั่งแก่เด็ก, พระ, คนชรา, และคนพิการ

Thai pronunciation: ûuea-fúuea thîi nâng gàae dèk phrá khon chá-raa láe khon phí-gaan

Explanation: Thai people are quite kind and often help each other. Thai people view children, elders, and handicapped people as physically inferior and in need of help. As for monks, Thai people respect them. So when traveling by public transportation, Thai people give their seats to them. It’s not a social norm, but it’s what Thai people often do anyways.

3- No Alcohol or Cigarettes

Thai sentence: ห้ามดื่มเหล้าและสูบบุหรี่

Thai pronunciation: hâam dùuem lâo láe sùup bù-rìi

Explanation: Alcohol affects how people think, and cigarette smoke is unhealthy. As they’re not good to others and could lead to accidents and problems, you shouldn’t drink or smoke on public transportation.

4- No Stinky Food

Thai sentence: อย่านำอาหารมีกลิ่นขึ้นรถ

Thai pronunciation: yàa nam aa-hǎan mii glìn khûen rót

Explanation: Some food—such as durians, crispy garlic chive dumplings, and squid—can be very stinky. While some people think these foods smell nice, others don’t. To create a nice and clean atmosphere and not disturb other people, don’t eat stinky food on public transportation. If you have to bring it with you, make sure to seal it properly so it doesn’t smell much.

8. Thai Business Etiquette

Business

If you’re working in Thailand or working with Thai people, it’s nice to know business etiquette in Thailand. Below are some things about business etiquette in Thailand you should be aware of.

1- Dress Properly

Thai sentence: แต่งตัวสุภาพ

Thai pronunciation: dtàaeng-dtuua sù-phâap

Explanation: The first impression is very important when you do Thai business. And the first thing that catches attention is how you dress. Men are supposed to wear a shirt and slacks, while women are supposed to wear a knee-length dress or a shirt with a skirt. The tone of the clothing shouldn’t be too colorful, and no sandals.

2- Address Other Parties Formally

Thai sentence: เรียกอีกฝ่ายอย่างสุภาพ

Thai pronunciation: rîiak ìik fàai yàang sù-phâap

Explanation: The formal way to address each other in Thai is by saying คุณ (khun) + name. คุณ (khun) is a formal title in Thai.

3- Greet Other Parties Formally

Thai sentence: ทักทายอีกฝ่ายอย่างสุภาพ

Thai pronunciation: thák-thaai ìik fàai yàang sù-phâap

Explanation: When you meet your business partner, you should first greet them by saying สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dii) and perform ไหว้ (wâi).

4- Be Punctual

Thai sentence: ตรงเวลา

Thai pronunciation: dtrong wee-laa

Explanation: This one is quite common; don’t make others wait for you. In Bangkok, the traffic is quite bad, so make sure you have a lot of time for traveling.

5- Shaking Your Foot or Leg

Thai sentence: อย่านั่งเขย่าขา

Thai pronunciation: yàa nâng khà-yào khǎa

Explanation: Some people have a habit of shaking their foot or leg when sitting for a long time. It isn’t a rude manner in Thailand, but it makes you look unprofessional.

6- Avoid Putting Your Feet on the Table

Thai sentence: อย่าเอาเท้าวางบนโต๊ะ

Thai pronunciation: yàa ao tháo waang bon dtó

Explanation: As mentioned above, Thai people consider feet to be dirty. Thus, you shouldn’t put your feet on tables or chairs. It’s considered rude manners.

7- Avoid Chewing Gum

Thai sentence: อย่าเคี้ยวหมากฝรั่ง

Thai pronunciation: yàa khíiao màak-fà-ràng

Explanation: Chewing gum while speaking is unprofessional behavior for Thai people.

9. Thai Etiquette in Various Situations

If you live or work in Thailand, you may be invited to a ceremony for your friends or colleagues. In order for you to act appropriately and be nice to the host, here are the things you should know.

1- Thai Etiquette in Wedding Ceremonies

If you’re quite close to a Thai person, you normally get invited to their wedding ceremony. Normally, when you arrive to the ceremony, you should go to see the bride and groom to congratulate them before taking photos with them. Then, go sit in your assigned place. After this, just celebrate along with everyone.

However, you may not be sure how you should act or dress, as people in different countries have different cultures. For Thai people, you should follow these tips.

Wedding

1. Wear light-toned clothing.

Thai sentence: ใส่เสื้อผ้าสีอ่อน

Thai pronunciation: sài sûuea-phâa sǐi àawn

Explanation: For women, in case there’s no theme, wear light-toned clothing. If there is a theme, dress according to the theme. Don’t dress in white, as Thai people think only the bride should dress in white for the wedding ceremony. Don’t dress in black either, as Thai people wear black to funerals.

For men, dressing for a wedding is quite easy. Men normally wear a suit to the wedding. Any color is fine; just make sure it’s not too colorful. If there’s a theme, dress according to it.

2. Give money to the bride and groom.

Thai sentence: ใส่ซองให้บ่าวสาว

Thai pronunciation: sài saawng hâi bàao sǎao

Explanation: When Thai people go to a wedding ceremony, they give money to the bride and groom. This is a way to help with the wedding and say thank you for preparing the food and drinks for them. The amount of money they give depends on their relationship to the bride and groom, and where the ceremony is hosted.

3. Don’t talk about bad things or events.

Thai sentence: อย่าพูดเรื่องอัปมงคล

Thai pronunciation: yàa phûut rûueang àp-bpà-mong-khon

Explanation: A wedding ceremony is a happy event. Thai people believe that it’s bad to talk about bad things or unhappy events (such as a death).

4. Don’t make loud noise.

Thai sentence: อย่าส่งเสียงดัง

Thai pronunciation: yàa sòng sǐiang dang

Explanation: Making loud noise can ruin the sweet atmosphere and steal attention from the bride and groom, so don’t do it.

5. Avoid drinking too much.

Thai sentence: อย่าดื่มมากเกินไป

Thai pronunciation: yàa dùuem mâak gooen bpai

Explanation: In some wedding ceremonies, alcohol is served for guests. However, you need to be careful not to drink too much or get drunk. Since people sometimes lose control when drunk, you may cause problems.

2- Thai Etiquette for Funerals

Similar to wedding ceremonies, once you live or work in Thailand long enough, you may have to go to a funeral. Here are the do’s and don’ts for a Thai funeral.

1. Dress formally in black or white.

Thai sentence: แต่งตัวสุภาพด้วยชุดสีดำหรือขาว

Thai pronunciation: dtàaeng-dtuua sù-phâap dûuai chút sǐi dam rǔue khǎao

Explanation: To pay respect to the deceased person and their family, it’s polite to wear black or white. Don’t wear revealing clothing.

2. Give money to the host.

Thai sentence: ใส่ซองช่วยเจ้าภาพ

Thai pronunciation: sài saawng chûuai jâo-phâap

Explanation: To help with funeral arrangements, Thai people give money to the host. The amount of money they give depends on their relationship to the deceased person and their family.

3. Avoid making loud noise.

Thai sentence: อย่าส่งเสียงดัง

Thai pronunciation: yàa sòng sǐiang-dang

Explanation: Making loud noise is viewed as disrespectful toward the deceased. Also, people come here to grieve and comfort the family of the deceased person, so it’s inappropriate to make loud noises.

3- Thai Etiquette for a Buddhist Ordination

งานบวช (ngaan-bùuat) is “Buddhist ordination” in Thai, and this is an important event in Thai society. Thai people believe that men should be a monk for once in their life to learn more about Buddha’s teachings; this is so that he can live his life as a good man.

To join a Buddhist ordination is a good experience for a foreigner, as you get to see Thai culture, values, and beliefs. Here are some things you can and can’t do during a Buddhist ordination.

Buddhist Ordination

1. Dress formally.

Thai sentence: แต่งกายเรียบร้อย

Thai pronunciation: dtàaeng-gaai rîiap-ráauy

Explanation: A Buddhist ordination is an event that takes place in a temple. As already mentioned, it’s Thai culture and etiquette to dress properly in the temple, both men and women. Shirts with no sleeves, shorts, and skirts that are shorter than knee-length aren’t appropriate to wear in the temple. Also, no sexy or revealing clothes.

2. No drinking or cigarettes.

Thai sentence: ห้ามดื่มเหล้าและสูบบุหรี่

Thai pronunciation: hâam dùuem lâo láe sùup bù-rìi

Explanation: You shouldn’t drink or smoke in the temple as this is one of the things Buddhists shouldn’t do, as mentioned earlier.

10. Conclusion: How ThaiPod101 Can Help You Master Thai Culture

If you’ve reached this point in the lesson, you should know more or less about what you should and shouldn’t do in Thailand. Keep these things in mind so that you don’t accidentally act inappropriately when you visit the country.

It can be hard to fully accommodate to customs you’re not familiar with, but with enough practice and the right mindset, you’re already halfway there! Now that you know all of this, you should go and learn other fun Thai lessons such as the top ten tourist attractions, top five Thai dishes, or how to eat Thai food, at ThaiPod101.com.

Does your country have similar cultural expectations or etiquette rules? Let us know in the comments!

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Thai Dates: Best Guide for Learning Dates in Thailand

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Time is very important, and is a significant part of our daily lives. Thus, when learning any language, it’s essential to learn about dates and time in that language. In this case, knowing Thai dates and how to tell time in Thai will improve your Thai conversation. It will also enable you to make appointments and manage your time well while in Thailand.

This article will teach you how to write dates in Thai, how to say the months in Thai, and basic sentences you can use in conversations to talk about dates or make appointments. To sum up, after finishing this article, you’ll know everything about Thai dates, Thai days, Thai months, and Thai years. Some parts of this lesson may be hard, but others are very easy (especially if you have basic knowledge about Thai numbers!).

Table of Contents

  1. Saying the Day in Thai
  2. Dates in Thai
  3. The Months in Thai
  4. The Year in Thai
  5. Combining Thai Days, Dates, Months, and Years
  6. Other Terms You Should Know
  7. Must-Know Thai Phrases about Dates
  8. Making an Appointment in Thai
  9. Conclusion: How ThaiPod101 Can Help You Master Thai

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1. Saying the Day in Thai

Weekdays

Let’s start with the basics. Before you can really understand dates in Thailand, you’ll have to know the days of the week in Thai. วัน (wan) is “day” in Thai, and below is a list of the Thai names for each day of the week.

1- “Monday” in Thai

Thai: วันจันทร์ (wan jan)

Example:

  • วันจันทร์ที่จะถึงนี้เป็นวันหยุด
    wan jan thîi jà thǔeng níi bpen wan yùt
    This coming Monday is a holiday.

Additional Note: Thai people associate the days with different colors. For Monday, the color of the day is yellow. Since King Rama IX was born on Monday, yellow is considered his color as well.

2- “Tuesday” in Thai

Thai: วันอังคาร (wan ang-khaan)

Example:

  • วันอังคารหน้าฉันจะไปเกาหลี
    wan ang-khaan nâa chăn jà bpai gao-lǐi
    I will go to Korea next Tuesday.

Additional Note: Tuesday’s color is pink.

3- “Wednesday” in Thai

Thai: วันพุธ (wan phút)

Example:

  • ฉันชอบดูหนังวันพุธเพราะตั๋วหนังลดราคา
    chăn châawp duu năng wan phút phráw dtŭua năng lót raa-khaa
    I like to watch movies on Wednesday because tickets are discounted.

Additional Note: Wednesday’s color is green. In Thailand, a lot of restaurants and movie theaters have promotions on this day.

4- “Thursday” in Thai

Thai: วันพฤหัสบดี (wan phá-rúe-hàt-sà-baaw-dii)

Example:

  • วันพฤหัสบดีนี้ฉันมีนัดกับลูกค้าใหม่
    wan phá-rúe-hàt-sà-baaw-dii níi chăn mii nát gàp lûuk kháa mài
    I have an appointment with a new customer this Thursday.

Additional Note: Thursday’s color is orange.

5- “Friday” in Thai

Thai: วันศุกร์ (wan sùk)

Example:

  • วันศุกร์หน้าเป็นวันเกิดของแม่ฉัน
    wan sùk nâa bpen wan gòoet khǎawng mâae chăn
    Next Friday is my mother’s birthday.

Additional Note: Friday’s color is light blue.

6- “Saturday” in Thai

Thai: วันเสาร์ (wan sǎo)

Example:

  • วันเสาร์นี้ฉันจะไปห้างกับพี่สาว
    wan săo níi chăn jà bpai hâang gàp phîi săao
    I will go to the department store with my older sister this Saturday.

Additional Note: Saturday’s color is purple.

7- “Sunday” in Thai

Thai: วันอาทิตย์ (wan aa-thít)

Example:

  • วันอาทิตย์เป็นวันครอบครัวของเรา
    wan aa-thít bpen wan khrâawp khruua khǎawng rao
    Sunday is our family’s day.

Additional Note: Sunday’s color is red.

8- “Weekday” in Thai

Thai: วันธรรมดา (wan tham-má-daa)

Example:

  • ปกติแล้ว วันธรรมดาฉันจะถึงบ้านตอน 5 โมงเย็น
    bpòk-gà-dtì láaeo wan tham-má-daa chăn jà thǔeng bâan dtaawn hâa moong yen
    Normally, I arrive home at 5 p.m. on weekdays.

9- “Weekend” in Thai

Thai: วันสุดสัปดาห์ (wan sùt-sàp-daa)

Example:

  • ร้านอาหารของน้องชายฉันจะขายดีวันสุดสัปดาห์เป็นพิเศษ
    ráan aa-hăan khǎawng náawng chaai chăn jà khăai dii wan sùt sàp-daa bpen phí-sìit
    My younger brother’s restaurant is always packed on the weekend.

As you can see, the days in Thai may require some extra practice due to the spelling. But you can do this! Knowing the days of the week is essential in mastering Thai dates, so don’t skip over this!

2. Dates in Thai

Numbers

On the other hand, Thai dates are very easy to learn if you know how to count 1-31 in the Thai language. วันที่ (wan thîi) is “date” in Thai. Basically, to say dates in Thai, you just say วันที่ (wan thîi) + number (date). The list below shows how to read all the number dates in Thai.

  • วันที่ 1 (wan thîi nùeng) is “1st” in Thai
  • วันที่ 2 (wan thîi sǎawng) is “2nd” in Thai
  • วันที่ 3 (wan thîi sǎam) is “3rd” in Thai
  • วันที่ 4 (wan thîi sìi) is “4th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 5 (wan thîi hǎa) is “5th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 6 (wan thîi hòk) is “6th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 7 (wan thîi jèt) is “7th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 8 (wan thîi bpàaet) is “8th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 9 (wan thîi gâo) is “9th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 10 (wan thîi sìp) is “10th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 11 (wan thîi sìp-èt) is “11th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 12 (wan thîi sìp sǎawng) is “12th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 13 (wan thîi sìp sǎam) is “13th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 14 (wan thîi sìp sìi) is “14th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 15 (wan thîi sìp hâa) is “15th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 16 (wan thîi sìp hòk) is “16th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 17 (wan thîi sìp jèt) is “17th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 18 (wan thîi sìp bpàaet) is “18th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 19 (wan thîi sìp gâo) is “19th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 20 (wan thîi yîi sìp) is “20th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 21 (wan thîi yîi sìp èt) is “21st” in Thai
  • วันที่ 22 (wan thîi yîi sìp sǎawng) is “22nd” in Thai
  • วันที่ 23 (wan thîi yîi sìp sǎam) is “23rd” in Thai
  • วันที่ 24 (wan thîi yîi sìp sìi) is “24th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 25 (wan thîi yîi sìp hâa) is “25th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 26 (wan thîi yîi sìp hòk) is “26th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 27 (wan thîi yîi sìp jèt) is “27th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 28 (wan thîi yîi sìp bpàaet) is “28th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 29 (wan thîi yîi sìp gâo) is “29th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 30 (wan thîi sǎam sìp) is “30th” in Thai
  • วันที่ 31 (wan thîi sǎam sìp èt) is “31st” in Thai

3. The Months in Thai

Months

Now that you know what the days in Thai are, let’s learn how to say “month” in Thai and what each month is called. เดือน (duuean) is “month” in Thai, and the list below shows the month names.

1- “January” in Thai

Thai:

  • Formal language: เดือนมกราคม (duuean mók-gà-raa-khom)
  • Informal spoken language: เดือนหนึ่ง (duuean nùeng)

Abbreviation: ม.ค. (maaw-khaaw)

Example:

  • ฉันเกิดเดือนมกราคม
    chǎn gòoet duuean mók-gà-raa-khom
    I was born in January.

Additional Note: Apart from New Year, another important day in Thailand is Children’s Day, which is the second Saturday of January.

2- “February” in Thai

Thai:

  • Formal language: เดือนกุมภาพันธ์ (duuean gum-phaa-phan)
  • Informal spoken language: เดือนสอง (duuean sǎawng)

Abbreviation: ก.พ. (gaaw-phaaw)

Example:

  • เดือนกุมภาพันธ์เป็นเดือนแห่งความรัก
    duuean gum-phaa-phan bpen duuean hàaeng khwaam-rák
    February is the month of love.

Additional Note: February in Thailand is full of red. Apart from being the month of love, the Chinese New Year falls in this month almost every year. Most places are decorated with red, a color that represents both Valentine’s Day and the Chinese New Year.

Chinese New Year Day

3- “March” in Thai

Thai:

  • Formal language: เดือนมีนาคม (duuean mii-naa-khom)
  • Informal spoken language: เดือนสาม (duuean sǎam)

Abbreviation: มี.ค. (mii-khaaw)

Example:

  • ประเทศไทยเริ่มเข้าสู่ฤดูร้อนตั้งแต่เดือนมีนาคม
    bprà-thêet thai rôoem khâo sùu rúe-duu ráawn dtâng dtàae duuean mii-naa-khom
    The summer in Thailand starts in March.

Additional Note: Thai students love March as it’s the start of their summer vacation. March in Thailand is also the starting period of summer. The weather clearly starts to get hotter.

4- “April” in Thai

Thai:

  • Formal language: เดือนเมษายน (duuean mee-sǎa-yon)
  • Informal spoken language: เดือนสี่ (duuean sìi)

Abbreviation: เม.ย. (mee-yaaw)

Example:

  • เดือนเมษายนมีเทศกาลสงกรานต์ซึ่งเป็นวันหยุดยาวของประเทศไทย
    duuean mee-săa-yon mii thêet-sà-gaan sŏng-graan sûeng bpen wan yùt yaao khǎawng bprà-thêet thai
    The sǎawnggran Festival, which is a long Thai holiday, is in April.

Additional Note: As mentioned in the example, the Sŏng-graan Festival or Thai New Year period, is from April 13-15, and this is the hottest period of the year. It’s a long holiday for Thai people, who normally spend their time with family either going back to their hometown or going traveling. So April in Thailand is a time for family.

5- “May” in Thai

Thai:

  • Formal language: เดือนพฤษภาคม (duuean phrúet-sà-phaa-khom)
  • Informal spoken language: เดือนห้า (duuean hâa)

Abbreviation: พ.ค. (phaaw-khaaw)

Example:

  • นักเรียนไทยเริ่มเปิดเทอมเดือนพฤษภาคม
    nák riian thai rôoem bpòoet thooem duuean phrúet-sà-phaa-khom
    Thai students start a new semester in May.

Additional Note: The middle of May in Thailand is the start of the rainy season.

6- “June” in Thai

Thai:

  • Formal language: เดือนมิถุนายน (duuean mí-thù-naa-yon)
  • Informal spoken language: เดือนหก (duuean hòk)

Abbreviation: มิ.ย. (mí-yaaw)

Example:

  • ชื่อของเดือนที่มี 30 วันจะลงท้ายด้วยคำว่า “ยน” ในภาษาไทย เช่น เดือนมิถุนายน
  • chûue khǎawng duuean thîi mii săam sìp wan jà long tháai dûuai kham wâa yon nai phaa-săa thai chêen duuean mí-thù-naa-yon
  • The name of a month that has thirty days ends with yoen in Thai, such as เดือนมิถุนายน (duuean mí-thù-naa-yon).

7- “July” in Thai

Thai:

  • Formal language: เดือนกรกฎาคม (duuean gà-rá-gà-daa-khom)
  • Informal spoken language: เดือนเจ็ด (duuean jèt)

Abbreviation: ก.ค. (gaaw-khaaw)

Example:

  • ชื่อของเดือนที่มี 31 วันจะลงท้ายด้วยคำว่า “คม” ในภาษาไทย เช่น เดือนกรกฎาคม
  • chûue khǎawng duuean thîi mii săam sìp èt wan jà long tháai dûuai kham wâa khom nai phaa-săa thai chêen duuean gà-rá-gà-daa-khom
  • The name of a month that has thirty-one days ends with khom in Thai, such as เดือนกรกฎาคม (duuean gà-rá-gà-daa-khom).

8- “August” in Thai

Thai:

  • Formal language: เดือนสิงหาคม (duuean sǐng-hǎa-khom)
  • Informal spoken language: เดือนแปด (duuean bpàaet)

Abbreviation: ส.ค. (sǎaw-khaaw)

Example:

  • วันที่ 12 สิงหาคมของทุกปีเป็นวันแม่ของประเทศไทย
    wan thîi sìp sǎawng sĭng-hăa-khom khǎawng thúk bpii bpen wan mâae khǎawng bprà-thêet thai
    The 12th of August every year is Mother’s Day in Thailand.

Additional Note: August in Thailand is full of events for mothers. The 12th of August is the birthday of King Rama IX’s wife. Thai people perceive her as the mother of Thai people, so naturally, her birthday has become Mother’s Day in Thailand.

9- “September” in Thai

Thai:

  • Formal language: เดือนกันยายน (duuean gan-yaa-yon)
  • Informal spoken language: เดือนเก้า (duuean gâo)

Abbreviation: ก.ย. (gaaw-yaaw)

Example:

  • เดือนกันยายนปีนี้ ฉันจะไปเที่ยวญี่ปุ่น
    duuean gan-yaa-yon bpii níi chăn jà bpai thîiao yîi-bpùn
    I will go traveling in Japan this September.

Additional Note: The 9th of September in Thailand is considered to be a good day, as both the date and the month are pronounced gâo which means “moving forward” in Thai.

10- “October” in Thai

Thai:

  • Formal language: เดือนตุลาคม (duuean dtù-laa-khom)
  • Informal spoken language: เดือนสิบ (duuean-sìp)

Abbreviation: ต.ค. (dtaaw-khaaw)

Example:

  • เทศกาลกินเจของไทยอยู่เดือนตุลาคม
    thêet-sà-gaan gin jee khǎawng thai yùu duuean dtù-laa-khom
    The Vegetarian Festival in Thailand is in October.

Additional Note: If February in Thailand is full of red, October in Thailand is full of yellow because of the ten-day Vegetarian Festival. During this period, some Thai people eat only vegetarian food for ten days in order to make merit by saving the lives of animals.

11- “November” in Thai

Thai:

  • Formal language: เดือนพฤศจิกายน (duuean phrúet-sà-jì-gaa-yon)
  • Informal spoken language: เดือนสิบเอ็ด (duuean sìp èt)

Abbreviation: พ.ย. (phaaw-yaaw)

Example:

  • วันลอยกระทงของทุกปีมักอยู่เดือนพฤศจิกายน
    wan laauy grà-thong khǎawng thúk bpii mák yùu duuean phrúet-sà-jì-gaa-yon
    Loy Gratong Day is in November almost every year.

Additional Note: The date on which Loy Gratong Day falls each year is based on the Thai Lunar calendar. It’s the day that Thai people ask พระแม่คงคา (phrá mâae khong-khaa) or the “god of river” for forgiveness if they do something wrong toward the river. This ceremony is quite nice and unique, so foreigners often find it beautiful.

Loy Gratong Day

12- “December” in Thai

Thai:

  • Formal language: เดือนธันวาคม (duuean than-waa-khom)
  • Informal spoken language: เดือนสิบสอง (duuean sìp sǎawng)

Abbreviation: ธ.ค. (thaaw-khaaw)

Example:

  • หลายคนชอบเดือนธันวาคมเพราะเดือนนี้มีวันหยุดหลายวัน
    lăai khon châawp duuean than-waa khom phráw duuean níi mii wan yùt lăai wan
    Many people like December because there are many holidays in this month.

Additional Note: December in Thailand is a month full of holidays. The fact that the weather in Thailand starts to cool down makes the atmosphere nicer. A lot of Thai people travel during this period.

4. The Year in Thai

Learning the years in Thai isn’t difficult. ปี (bpii) is “year” in Thai.

There are a few things you need to know about Thai years, which will be explained below to give you a better idea of how to read dates in Thai according to the year.

1- Ph.D. or B.E.

Thai people mainly use Ph.D., but they also understand if you use B.E. However, when it comes to formal communication in both speaking and writing, Ph.D. is used.

2- How to Say Thai Years (Ph.D.)

Thai: พุทธศักราช (phút-thá-sàk-gà-ràat) + year

Abbreviation: พ.ศ. (phaaw-sǎaw)

Example:

  • ปีนี้คือพ.ศ.2562
    bpii níi khuue phaaw-sǎaw sǎawng-phan-hâa-ráauy-hòk-sìp-sǎawng
    This year is 2562 Ph.d.

Additional Note: พุทธศักราช (phút-thá-sàk-gà-ràat) is normally used in formal situations, while พ.ศ. (phaaw-sǎaw) can be used in both formal and informal situations.

3- How to Say Thai Years (B.E.)

Thai: คริสตศักราช (khrít-dtà-sàk-gà-ràat) + year

Abbreviation: ค.ศ. (khaaw-sǎaw)

Example:

  • ปีนี้คือค.ศ.2019
    bpii níi khuue khaaw-sǎaw sǎawng-phan-sìp-gâo
    This year is 2019 B.E.

Additional Note: คริสตศักราช (khrít-dtà-sàk-gà-ràat) is normally used in formal spoken situations, while ค.ศ. (khaaw-sǎaw) can be used in informal spoken situations and formal written situations.

5. Combining Thai Days, Dates, Months, and Years

So, how are dates written in Thailand?

Let’s combine everything together that you’ve learned so far, and use it to see how to write dates in Thai. Keep in mind that Thai people start with the smallest unit. Below is an example of how Thai people say the day, date, month, and year altogether:

วัน (day) ที่ (date) เดือน (month) ปี (year)

wan (day) thîi (date) duuean (month) bpii (year)

Now, here are various ways you can say Thai days, dates, months and years, using the structures above. The date that will be used as an example is Tuesday 8th, January 2019.

1- Full Version

Thai date: วันอังคารที่ 8 เดือนมกราคม ปีพ.ศ. 2562

Thai pronunciation: wan-ang-khaan thîi bpàaet duuean mók-gà-raa-khom bpii phút-thá-sàk-gà-ràat sǎawng-phan-hâa-ráauy-hòk-sìp-sǎawng

Usage: Thai people normally use this in formal situations. You simply say every part of the phrase.

2- Thai Date without Day

Thai date: วันที่ 8 เดือนมกราคม ปีพ.ศ. 2562

Thai pronunciation: wan thîi bpàaet duuean mók-gà-raa-khom bpii phút-thá-sàk-gà-ràat sǎawng-phan-hâa-ráauy-hòk-sìp-sǎawng

Usage: Thai people also use this in formal situations, when they don’t want to focus on the day. If you can say the full version, this is easy. You just cut the day out.

3- Short Version

Thai date: 8 มกราคม พ.ศ. 2562

Thai pronunciation: bpàaet mók-gà-raa-khom phaaw-sǎaw sǎawng-phan-hâa-ráauy-hòk-sìp-sǎawng

Usage: Thai people use this in less formal situations. They simply cut out the day, the word date, the month, and the year. For the year, the abbreviation is used. This is what Thai people use for speaking in daily life.

4- Abbreviated Version

Thai date: 8 ม.ค. 62

Thai pronunciation: bpàaet maaw-khaaw hòk-sǎawng

Usage: Thai people mostly use abbreviated versions for writing. When they read it, they either read it fully or read the abbreviation as shown above. For years, Thai people read each number separately.

6. Other Terms You Should Know

Apart from what you’ve learned so far, there are also terms about dates and times you should know:

1- “Today” in Thai

Thai language: วันนี้ (wan-níi)

Example:

  • วันนี้เป็นวันอาทิตย์
    Wan-níi bpen wan-aa-thít
    Today is Sunday.

2- “Tomorrow” in Thai

Thai language: วันพรุ่งนี้ (wan-phrûng-níi); พรุ่งนี้ (phrûng-níi)

Example:

  • พรุ่งนี้ฝนน่าจะตก
    Phrûng-níi fǒn nâa jà dtòk
    It may rain tomorrow.

Additional Note: วันพรุ่งนี้ (wan-phrûng-níi) is a little bit more formal than พรุ่งนี้ (phrûng-níi). Still, Thai people use both of them equally.

3- “The Day After Tomorrow” in Thai

Thai language: วันมะรืน (wan-má-ruuen); มะรืน (má-ruuen)

Example:

  • พ่อต้องไปเชียงใหม่มะรืนนี้
    Phâaw dtâawng bpai chiiang-mài má-ruuen níi
    Dad has to go to Chiangmai the day after tomorrow.

Additional Note: วันมะรืน (wan-má-ruuen) is a little bit more formal than มะรืน (má-ruuen). Still, Thai people use both of them equally. They often put the word นี้ (níi) after วันมะรืน (wan-má-ruuen) or มะรืน (má-ruuen), but its English meaning is the same.

4- “Yesterday” in Thai

Thai language: เมื่อวาน (mûuea-waan)

Example:

  • เมื่อวานนี้อากาศร้อนมาก
    Mûuea-waan níi aa-gàat ráawn mâak
    Yesterday was very hot.

Additional Note: Thai people often put the word นี้ (níi) after เมื่อวาน (mûuea-waan), but its English meaning is the same.

5- “Week” in Thai

Thai language: สัปดาห์ (sàp-daa); อาทิตย์ (aa-thít)

Example:

  • อาทิตย์ที่แล้ว ฉันไปเที่ยวมา
    Aa-thít thîi-láaeo chǎn bpai thîiao maa
    I went traveling last week.

Additional Note: สัปดาห์ (sàp-daa) is more formal than อาทิตย์ (aa-thít). Thai people use อาทิตย์ (aa-thít) in conversation more.

6- “This…..” in Thai

Thai language: (name of day / เดือน / ปี) + นี้ (níi)

Example:

  • วันพฤหัสบดีนี้เป็นวันครู
    Wan-phá-rúe-hàt-sà-baaw-dii níi bpen wan khruu
    This Thursday is Teacher Day.

Additional Note: In Thailand, Teacher Day is on January 16.

6- “Next…..” in Thai

Thai language: (name of day / เดือน / ปี) + หน้า (nhâa)

Example:

  • เดือนหน้าอากาศจะเริ่มร้อนแล้ว
    Duuean nâa aa-gàat jà rôoem ráawn láaeo
    The weather will start to be hot next month.

6- “Last…..” in Thai

Thai language: (name of day / เดือน / ปี) + ที่แล้ว (thîi-láaeo)

Example:

  • ปีที่แล้วเป็นปีที่ดีของฉัน
    Bpii thîi-láaeo bpen bpii thîi dii khǎawng chǎn
    Last year was a good year for me.

7. Must-Know Thai Phrases about Dates

Even after learning everything else in this article, you may still find it a bit hard to start a conversation about dates. To help you out, we’ve prepared some sentences you can use.

Thai language: วันนี้วันอะไร
Thai pronunciation: wan-níi wan à-rai
English meaning: What day is today?

Thai language: เดือนนี้เดือนอะไร
Thai pronunciation: duuean níi duuean à-rai
English meaning: What month is this?

Thai language: ปีนี้ปีอะไร
Thai pronunciation: bpii níi bpii à-rai
English meaning: What year is this?

Thai language: วันเกิดคุณคือวันไหน
Thai pronunciation: wan-gòoet khun khuue wan nǎi
English meaning: When is your birthday?

Thai language: วันครบรอบแต่งงานคือวันไหน
Thai pronunciation: wan-khróp-râawp dtàaeng-ngaan khuue wan nǎi
English meaning: When is your wedding anniversary?

Wedding Day

Thai language: โรงเรียนเปิดเทอมวันไหน
Thai pronunciation: roong-riian bpòoet-thooem wan nǎi
English meaning: When does your school start?

8. Making an Appointment in Thai

Now, for the last section of this article, let’s learn sentences you can use to make an appointment.

Thai language: คุณว่าง (day / date) มั๊ย
Thai pronunciation: khun wâang …..mái
English meaning: Are you free on (day/date)?

Thai language: ว่าง
Thai pronunciation: wâang
English meaning: I’m free.

Thai language: ไม่ว่าง
Thai pronunciation: mâi wâang
English meaning: I’m not free.

Thai language: แล้ว (day / date) ล่ะ
Thai pronunciation: láaeo…..là
English meaning: What about (day / date)?

Thai language: เจอกัน (day / date) นะ
Thai pronunciation: jooe gan…..ná
English meaning: See you on (day / date).

Make an Appointment

9. Conclusion: How ThaiPod101 Can Help You Master Thai

There’s a lot to learn and remember when it comes to Thai dates, so be sure to practice often. Remembering the names of days and months will definitely take some time, but you can do it, so don’t give up. If you can, try using them with Thai people in daily life.

Once you get the hang of this, you can go and learn other interesting lessons such as our vocabulary list on Thai numbers or about the Thai New Year at ThaiPod101.com!

Before you go, let us know in the comments how you feel about Thai dates now. Do you feel more confident about writing and reading dates in Thai, or are you still struggling? Don’t forget to keep practicing and never hesitate to reach out for help. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Best Guide to Learn about Thai Family in the Thai Language

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Regardless of nationality or native language, family is the basic institution for everyone. So it makes sense for you to learn how to describe family members when you learn a new language. For Thai people, family is very important. So by learning about the family in Thai, you’ll get to know more about Thai family culture and Thai family values.

The basic questions most Thai learners have when attempting a Thai conversation about family are about how to say “father” in Thai, how to say “mother” in Thai, and how to say “sister” in Thai. In this article, we’ll answer all of these questions for you, and give you everything you need to know about Thai family. For easy understanding, study the family tree in Thai and English below.

  1. Family in Thai
  2. Thai Terms for Family Members
  3. Thai Terms for Relatives
  4. Thai Terms for Additional Family from Marriage
  5. Interesting Things You Should Know About Thai Family
  6. Thai Proverbs About Family
  7. How ThaiPod101 Can Help You Master Thai Language & Culture

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1. Family in Thai

Family Words

First, let’s learn about Thai family life in general, and family in Thai culture. What is family in Thailand?

When it comes to family life in Thai culture and society, people value the family institution. You can see that family members in Thai society are pretty close to each other; also note that family values in Thailand tend to revolve around seniority.

For this reason, Thai people don’t call people who are older than them by their name alone, but rather a term based on seniority and relationship. In other words, they call them by the appropriate family term together with their name. Before we go too much more into depth here, let’s learn some basic vocabulary and family words in Thai.

First and foremost, how do you say “family” in Thai?

Family

1- Family in Thai

Thai: ครอบครัว (khrâawp-khruua)

Example:
ครอบครัวของเราอาศัยอยู่ที่ภาคใต้
khrâawp-khruua khǎawng rao aa-săi yùu thîi phâak dtâi
“Our family lives in the southern part of Thailand.”

Additional note: In Thai society, people normally live with their family. It’s perfectly normal for people who are of age to stay with their parents. Thai people usually move out when they start their own family or if they have to work far from home.

2- Family Members in Thai

Thai: สมาชิกในครอบครัว (sà-maa-chík nai khrâawp-khruua); คนในครอบครัว (khon nai khrâawp-khruua)

Example:
คนในครอบครัวของเราผมหยิกกันหมด
khon nai khrâawp-khruua khǎawng rao phŏm yìk gan mòt
“Every one of our family members has curly hair.”

3- Relatives in Thai

Thai: ญาติ (yâat)

Example:
ญาติของเราจะมารวมตัวกันในวันตรุษจีนทุกปี
yâat khǎawng rao jà maa ruuam dtuua gan nai wan dtrùt jiin thúk bpii
“Our relatives gathering is on the Lunar New Year day every year.”

Family Gathering

4- Sibling in Thai

Thai: พี่น้อง (phîi náawng)

Example:
พ่อมีพี่น้องทั้งหมด 3 คน
phâaw mii phîi náawng tháng mòt săam khon
“My father has three siblings.”

2. Thai Terms for Family Members

Now, let’s begin learning what to call family members in Thai. We’ll start with family terms in a single family first.

1- Father in Thai

Thai: There are two words for father in Thai, as shown below:

  • พ่อ (phâaw) is “father” in Thai.
  • บิดา (bì-daa) is the formal written language for “father” in Thai.

Example:
พ่อของฉันชื่อธีระ
phâaw khǎawng chăn chûue thii-rá
“My father’s name is Teera.”

How to address/endearment terms: There are many ways for children to address their father in Thailand. Using พ่อ (phâaw) is okay, but many people also use ป๊ะป๋า (bpá-bpǎa), ปะป๊า (bpà-bpáa), ป๊า (bpáa), แดดดี๊ (daddy), and เตี่ย (dtìia).

Additional note: Thai people really love King Rama IX, so we call him พ่อของแผ่นดิน (phâaw khǎawng phàaen-din), which means “father of Thai people” in Thai. (Its literal meaning is Father of the Land.)

2- Mother in Thai

Thai: There are two words for “mother” in Thai, as shown below:

  • แม่ (mâae) is “mother” in Thai.
  • มารดา (maan-daa) is the formal written language for “mother” in Thai.

Example:
แม่ของฉันชอบไปทะเล
mâae khǎawng chăn châawp bpai thá-lee
“My mother likes to go to the sea.”

How to address/endearment terms: Similar to “father,” there are many ways for children to address their mother in Thailand as well. Apart from แม่ (mâae), Thai people also use หม่าม๊า (màa-máa), หม่ามี๊ (màa-míi), and ม๊า (máa).

Additional note: You may be able to guess this after reading about the terms for “father.” Since Thai people called King Rama IX พ่อของแผ่นดิน (phâaw khǎawng phàaen-din), it makes sense for us to call the wife of King Rama IX แม่ของแผ่นดิน (mâae khǎawng phàaen-din), which means “mother of Thai people” in Thai. (Its literal meaning is Mother of the Land.)

3- Older Brother in Thai

Thai: พี่ชาย (phîi chaai)

Example:
พ่อของฉันมีพี่ชาย 1 คน
phâaw khǎawng chăn mii phîi chaai nùeng khon
“My father has one older brother.”

How to address/endearment terms: In Thai, people call a sibling who is older than them พี่ (phîi) + name, regardless of their sibling’s gender. For example, according to the family tree, my father calls his older brother พี่ธำรง (phîi tham-rong).

Additional note: You may hear Thai-Chinese people use the term เฮีย (hiia) for an older brother as well.

4- Older Sister in Thai

Thai: พี่สาว (phîi sǎao)

Example:
พี่สาวของพ่อชื่อธารา
phîi sǎao khǎawng phâaw chûue thaa-raa
“The name of my father’s older sister is Tara.”

How to address/endearment terms: In Thai, people call a sibling who is older than them พี่ (phîi) + name, regardless of their sibling’s gender. For example, according to the family tree, my father calls his older sister พี่ธารา (phîi thaa-raa).

Additional note: You may hear Thai-Chinese people use the term เจ้ (jêe) for an older sister as well.

5- Younger Brother in Thai

Thai: น้องชาย (náawng chaai)

Example:
น้องชายของพ่อหน้าตาเหมือนพ่อมาก
náawng chaai khǎawng phâaw nâa dtaa mǔuean phâaw mâak
“My father’s younger brother looks a lot like my father.”

How to address/endearment terms: In Thai, there are two ways to address your younger sibling. People either call a sibling who is younger than them น้อง (náawng) + name regardless of their gender, or just call him by name. Most people use the second option. This is because of the focus on seniority in Thai culture.

6- Younger Sister in Thai

Thai: น้องสาว (náawng sǎao)

Example:
แม่มีน้องสาวที่อายุห่างกัน 2 ปี 1 คน
mâae mii náawng săao thîi aa-yú hàang gan sǎawng bpii nùeng khon
“My mother has one younger sister who is two years younger.”

How to address/endearment terms: In Thai, there are two ways to address your younger sibling. People either call a sibling who is younger than them น้อง (náawng) + name regardless of their gender, or just call her by name. Most people use the second option. This is because of the focus on seniority in Thai culture.

Close Sister

3. Thai Terms for Relatives

Let’s learn even more about family members in a bigger family, otherwise known as the extended family in Thailand. This section will show you what to call your father and mother’s family members, and other relatives.

1- Grandfather in Thai

Thai: There are two words for “grandfather” in Thai:

  • ปู่ (bpùu) means “father of your father” in Thai.
  • ตา (dtaa) means “father of your mother” in Thai.

Example:
ทั้งคุณปู่และคุณตาของฉันแข็งแรงมาก
tháng khun bpùu láe khun dtaa-khǎawng chăn khăaeng-raaeng mâak
“Both of my grandfathers are very healthy.”

How to address/endearment terms: Normally, when Thai people address their grandfather, they just call them ปู่ (bpùu) or ตา (dtaa). Thai people don’t use their grandfather’s name when they call them.

Additional note: In Thai society, grandparents are known to unintentionally spoil their grandchild. They tend to buy things for their grandchild and grant their wishes.

2- Grandmother in Thai

Thai: Similar to “grandfather,” there are two words for “grandmother” in Thai:

  • ย่า (yâa) means “mother of your father” in Thai.
  • ยาย (yaai) means “mother of your mother” in Thai.

Example:
คุณย่าทำอาหารไทยอร่อยมากในขณะที่คุณยายทำขนมไทยอร่อย
khun yâa tham aa-hăan thai à-ràauy mâak nai khà-nà thîi khun yaai tham khà-nŏm thai à-ràauy
“One of my grandmothers can cook delicious Thai food, while the other one can cook delicious Thai sweets.”

How to address/endearment terms: Like “grandfather,” when Thai people address their grandmother, they just call them ย่า (yâa) or ยาย (yaai). Thai people don’t use their grandmother’s name when they call them.

3- Great-Grandfather and Great-Grandmother in Thai

Thai: ทวด (thûuat)

Example:
แม่เล่าให้ฟังว่าทวดรำไทยสวยมาก
mâae lâo hâi fang wâa thûuat ram thai sŭuai mâak
“Mom told me that my great-grandmother did Thai dancing very beautifully.”

How to address/endearment terms: Like with grandparents, when Thai people address their great-grandparent, they just call them ทวด (thûuat). Thai people don’t use their great-grandparent’s name when they call them, unless they want to specify which great-grandparent they’re referring to.

4- Uncle in Thai

Thai: There are many words for “uncle” in Thai, which we’ll explain below:

  • ลุง (lung) means “older brother of both father and mother” in Thai.
  • น้า (náa) means “younger sibling, including younger brother of your mother” in Thai.
  • อา (aa) means “younger sibling, including younger brother of your father” in Thai.

Example:
พ่อกับอาธนินท์ชอบดูฟุตบอลด้วยกัน
phâaw gàp aa thá-nin châawp duu fút-baawn dûuai gan
“Dad and Uncle Tanin like to watch football together.”

How to address/endearment terms: In Thai, there are two ways of addressing your uncle. Thai people either call their uncle ลุง (lung) / น้า (náa) / อา (aa) + name, or just call them ลุง (lung) / น้า (náa) / อา (aa). Most people use the first option to prevent confusion, in case there are many uncles in your family.

Additional note: The words น้า (náa) and อา (aa) can be used for both genders. So it can mean either “uncle” or “aunt.”

5- Aunt in Thai

Thai: There are many words for “aunt” in Thai, which we’ll explain below:

  • ป้า (bpâa) means “older sister of both father and mother” in Thai.
  • น้า (náa) means “younger sibling, including younger sister of your mother” in Thai.
  • อา (aa) means “younger sibling, including younger sister of your father” in Thai.

Example:
น้ากนิษฐ์บอกว่าฉันดูเหมือนแม่ของฉันตอนเด็ก ๆ มาก
náa gà-nít bàawk wâa chăn duu mǔuean mâae khǎawng chăn dtaawn dèk dèk mâak
“Aunt Kanit said I really look like my mom when she was young.”

How to address/endearment terms: Similar to “uncle,” there are two ways to address your aunt in Thai. Thai people either call their aunt ป้า (bpâa) / น้า (náa) / อา (aa) + name, or just call them ป้า (bpâa) / น้า (náa) / อา (aa). Most people use the first option to prevent confusion, in case there are many aunts in your family.

Additional note: When Thai people talk to people they don’t know or haven’t met before, like a food seller or a man at the bus stop, if those people seem like they’re their parents’ age, they address them as ลุง (lung) or ป้า (bpâa).

6- Nephew and Grandson in Thai

Thai: หลานชาย (lǎan chaai)

Example:
ปู่บอกว่าตอนพี่ชายเกิด ปู่ดีใจมากที่มีหลานชาย
bpùu bàawk wâa dtaawn phîi chaai gòoet · bpùu dii jai mâak thîi mii lăan chaai
“My grandfather said when my older brother was born, he was so happy to get a grandson.”

How to address/endearment terms: Because of seniority, grandparents, uncles, and aunts normally call their nephews or grandsons by name.

7- Niece and Granddaughter in Thai

Thai: หลานสาว (lǎan sǎao)

Example:
ตาบอกว่า ยายรักฉันมากเพราะฉันหน้าตาเหมือนยายตอนสาว ๆ
taa-bòk-wâa yaai-rák-chǎn-mâk-prór-chǎn-nhâa-taa-mǎaeun-yaai-ton-sǎo-sǎo
“My grandfather said my grandmother loves me so much because I look like her when she was young.”

How to address/endearment terms: Like nephews & grandsons, grandparents, uncles, and aunts normally call their nieces and granddaughters by name due to seniority.

8- Cousin in Thai

Thai: ลูกพี่ลูกน้อง (lûuk-phîi-lûuk-náawng)

Example:
กนกเป็นลูกพี่ลูกน้องของฉัน
Gà-nòk bpen lûuk-phîi-lûuk-náawng khǎawng chǎn
“Kanok is my cousin.”

How to address/endearment terms: If your cousin is older than you, you have to call him/her พี่ (phîi) + name. But if he/she is younger than you, you can call him/her by name.

4. Thai Terms for Additional Family from Marriage

Your family normally gets bigger through marriage. So this part of the article will teach you what to call your new family members and in-laws.

1- Husband in Thai

Thai: There are two words for “husband” in Thai, which we’ll explain below:

  • สามี (sǎa-mii) is the formal way to address the “husband” in Thai.
  • ผัว (phǔua) is the informal way to address the “husband” in Thai.

Example:
สามีของป้ากนิษฐ์ชื่อน้าปิติ
Sǎa-mii khǎawng bpâa gà-nít chûue náa bpì-dtì
“The husband of Aunt Kanit is Piti.”

How to address/endearment terms: A husband and wife will usually call each other by name, or by a pet name. However, once they have a child, they usually begin to call each other the terms of “father” and “mother.”

2- Wife in Thai

Thai: There are two words for “wife” in Thai, which we’ll explain below:

  • ภรรยา (phan-rá-yaa) is the formal way of addressing the “wife” in Thai.
  • เมีย (miia) is the informal way of addressing the “wife” in Thai.

Example:
ป้าส่องศรีเป็นภรรยาของลุงธำรง
bpâa sàawng-sǐi bpen phan-rá-yaa khǎawng lung tham-rong
“Aunt Songsri is Uncle Tamrong’s wife.”

How to address/endearment terms: A husband and wife will usually call each other by name, or a pet name. However, once they have a child, they usually begin calling each other by the terms for “father” and “mother.”

3- Son in Thai

Thai: There are two words for “son” in Thai:

  • ลูกชาย (lûuk chaai) is “son” in Thai.
  • บุตร (bùt) is the formal written language for “son” in Thai.

Example:
ลูกคนแรกของปู่เป็นลูกผู้ชาย
Lûuk khon râaek khǎawng bpùu bpen lûuk phûu-chaai
“The firstborn of my grandfather is a son.”

How to address/endearment terms: Thai parents normally call their child by name.

4- Daughter in Thai

Thai: There are two words for “daughter” in Thai:

  • ลูกสาว (lûuk sǎao) is “daughter” in Thai.
  • ธิดา (thí-daa) is the formal written language for “daughter” in Thai.

Example:
ยายมีลูกสาว 2 คน
yaai mii lûuk sǎao sǎawng kgon
“My grandmother has two daughters.”

How to address/endearment terms: Thai parents normally call their child by name.

5- Mother-in-law in Thai

Thai: There are two words for “mother-in-law” in Thai:

  • แม่ยาย (mâae-yaai) is the title for the wife’s mother in Thai.
  • แม่สามี (mâae sǎa-mii) is the title for the husband’s mother in Thai.

Example:
ย่าเป็นแม่สามีของป้าส่องศรี
Yâa bpen maâe sǎa-mii khǎawng bpâa sàawng-sǐi
“My grandmother is the mother-in-law of Aunt Songsri.”

How to address/endearment terms: When a wife addresses a parent of her husband, or a husband addresses a parent of his wife, they use the terms “father” and “mother” as if they are their own parents. The words แม่ยาย (mâae-yaai) and แม่สามี (mâae sáa-mii) are used as third-person pronouns.

6- Father-in-law in Thai

Thai: There are two words for “father-in-law” in Thai:

  • พ่อตา (phâaw-dtaa) is the title for the wife’s father in Thai.
  • พ่อสามี (phâaw sǎa-mii) is the title of the husband’s father in Thai.

Example:
ตาเป็นพ่อตาของน้าปิติ
Dtaa bpen phâaw-dtaa khǎawng náa bpì-dtì
“My grandfather is father-in-law of Uncle Piti.”

How to address/endearment terms: When a wife addresses a parent of her husband, or a husband addresses a parent of his wife, they use the terms “father” and “mother” as if they are their own parents. The words พ่อตา (phâaw-dtaa) and พ่อสามี (phâaw sáa-mii) are used as third-person pronouns.

7- Female In-law in Thai

Thai: When your male family member gets married, the woman he marries is called สะใภ้ (sà-phái). Here are the terms of สะใภ้ (sà-pái) you should know:

  • ลูกสะใภ้ (lûuk sà-phái) is the title for your son’s wife in Thai.
  • พี่สะใภ้ (phîi sà-phái) is the title for your older brother’s wife in Thai.
  • น้องสะใภ้ (náawng sà-phái) is the title of your younger brother’s wife in Thai.
  • หลานสะใภ้ (lǎan sà-phái) is the title of your grandson’s or nephew’s wife in Thai.

Example:
ป้าส่องศรีเป็นพี่สะใภ้ของพ่อ
bpâa sàawng-sǐi bpen phîi sà-phái khǎawng phâaw
“Aunt Song-sri is my father’s sister-in law.”

How to address/endearment terms: The terms of สะใภ้ (sà-phái) listed above are like titles, and are used as third-person pronouns. Parents, aunts, and uncles of the husband normally call their daughter-in-law by name. The brother and sister of the husband use the terms พี่ (phîi) or น้อง (náawng) + name, depending on their age.

My Sister-In-Law

8- Male In-law in Thai

Thai: When your female family member gets married, the man she marries is called เขย (kěay). Here are the terms of เขย (khǒoei) you should know:

  • ลูกเขย (lûuk khǒoei) is the title of your daughter’s husband in Thai.
  • พี่เขย (phîi khǒoei) is the title of your older sister’s husband in Thai.
  • น้องเขย (náawng khǒoei) is the title of your younger sister’s husband in Thai.
  • หลานเขย (lǎan khǒoei) is the title of your granddaughter’s or niece’s husband in Thai.

Example:
น้าปิติเป็นน้องเขยของแม่
náa bpì-dtì bpen náawng khǒoei khǎawng mâae
“Uncle Piti is my mother’s brother-in-law.”

How to address/endearment terms: The terms of เขย (khǒoei) listed above are like a title, and are used as third-person pronouns. Parents, aunts, and uncles of the husband normally call their daughter-in-law by name. The brother and sister of the husband use the terms พี่ (phîi) or น้อง (náawng) + name, depending on their age.

5. Interesting Things You Should Know About Thai Family

Now that you know all the terms for family members, let’s learn some more things about the Thai family.

1- Terms about Children

Apart from ลูกชาย (lûuk chaai) and ลูกสาว (lûuk sǎao), the following terms can be used to describe your children as well.

  • ลูกคนเดียว (lûuk khon diiao) is “single child”
  • ลูุกคนโต (lûuk khon dtoo) is “eldest child”
  • ลูกคนกลาง (lûuk khon glaang) is “middle child”
  • ลูกคนเล็ก (lûuk khon lék) is “youngest child”
  • ลูกชายคนโต (lûuk chaai khon dtoo) is “eldest son”
  • ลูกชายคนกลาง (lûuk chaai khon glaang) is “middle son”
  • ลูกชายคนเล็ก (lûuk chaai khon lék) is “youngest son”
  • ลูกสาวคนโต (lûuk sǎao khon dtoo) is “eldest daughter”
  • ลูกสาวคนกลาง (lûuk sǎao khon glaang) is “middle daughter”
  • ลูกสาวคนเล็ก (lûuk sǎao khon lék) is “youngest daughter”

2- Politeness

If you want to talk politely or formally when addressing or talking about a family member or relative, you can put the word คุณ (khun) before the term, such as in คุณตา (khun dtaa). Further, you should end the sentence with ครับ (khráp) for a male speaker, or ค่ะ (khà) for a female speaker.

6. Thai Proverbs About Family

Family Quotes

In the Thai language, people usually use proverbs in conversation. Here’s a list of Thai proverbs about family you can use if you want to sound like a Thai native.

1- ลูกไม้หล่นไม่ไกลต้น

Thai pronunciation: lûuk-mái lòn mâi glai dtôn

Literal meaning: “Fruit doesn’t fall far from its tree.”

Meaning: Children are often similar to their parent (in terms of behavior).

Similar English idiom: “Like father, like son,” and “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”

Example:
ต้นทำอาหารเก่งเหมือนพ่อเลย ลูกไม้หล่นไม่ไกลต้นจริง ๆ

dtôn tham aa-hăan gèeng mǔuean phâaw looei lûuk-mái lòn mâi glai dtôn jing jing

“Ton is very good at cooking like his father.”

2- ดูนางให้ดูแม่

Thai pronunciation: duu naang hâi duu mâae

Literal meaning: “Look at her mother to look at her.”

Meaning: If you want to know what a woman likes, look at her mother.”

Similar English idiom: “A chip off the old block.”

Example:
หลานสะใภ้ชั้นไม่ดูแลบ้านให้เรียบร้อย นิสัยเหมือนแม่เค้าเลย ดูนางให้ดูแม่จริง ๆ

lăan sà-phái chán mâi duu-laae bâan hâi rîiap-ráauy ní-săi mǔuean mâae kháo looei duu naang hâi duu mâae jing jing

“My nephew’s wife doesn’t clean her house well, really like her mother. If you want to know what a woman likes, you really have to look at her mother.”

3- สามีเป็นช้างเท้าหน้า ภรรยาเป็นช้างเท้าหลัง

Thai pronunciation: săa-mii bpen cháang tháo nâa phan-rá-yaa bpen cháang táo lăng

Literal meaning: “Husband is elephant’s forefoot. Wife is elephant’s hind foot.”

Meaning: The husband is the leader of the family, while the wife is a good follower.

Similar English idiom: “It’s a sad house where the hen crows louder than the cock.”

Example:
ครอบครัวสมัยก่อน สามีทำงานหาเงิน ภรรยาดูแลครอบครัว ถือว่าสามีเป็นช้างเท้าหน้า ภรรยาเป็นช้างเท้าหลัง

khrâawp-khruua sà-măi gàawn săa-mii tham ngaan hăa ngooen phan-rá-yaa duu-laae khrâawp-khruua thǔue wâa săa-mii bpen cháang tháo nâa phan-rá-yaa bpen cháang tháo lăng

“For family in the past, the husband was the one who worked for money, while the wife looked after the family. It can be said that the husband is the leader of the family, while the wife is a good follower.”

4- รักวัวให้ผูก รักลูกให้ตี

Thai pronunciation: rák wuua hâi phûuk rák lûuk hâi dtii

Literal meaning: “If you love your ox, tie it up. If you love your child, hit him/her.”

Meaning: “As a parent, you need to punish your children when they do the wrong thing.”

Similar English idiom: “Spare the rod, spoil the child.”

Example:
เมื่อเห็นลูกทำผิด ต้องลงโทษ อย่าคิดว่าไม่เป็นไร รักวัวให้ผูก รักลูกให้ตี

mûuea hĕn lûuk tham phìt dtâawng long thôot yàa khít wâa mâi bpen rai rák wuua hâi phûuk rák lûuk hâi dtii

“When your child does the wrong thing, you have to punish them. Don’t think it’s okay. As a parent, you need to punish your children when they do the wrong thing.”

You Shouldn’t Do This.

7. How ThaiPod101 Can Help You Master Thai Language & Culture

Congratulations on reaching this point! You’ve learned everything you need to know about Thai family, including how to say “family” in Thai and other essential family in Thai terms. Some terms are different from those in English, but with a little practice, you can use them well in no time.

And once you get used to all of these, go and learn other interesting topics at ThaiPod101.com. For example, learn about Thai national holidays, tourist attractions in Thailand, and traveling phrases you should know to plan for a trip to Thailand.

Before you go, let us know in the comments how you feel about family terms in Thai now. More comfortable, or is there still something you’re struggling with? We look forward to hearing from you!

While you’re at it, why not practice talking about family in Thai writing? If you want, write us a paragraph about your family written in Thai!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Family Phrases in Thai

Thai Phrases to Know When Traveling

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Most people love to travel. It’s nice to see new things and to learn how people in other places live. It’s exciting to try new foods and traditional clothes of other nations. Simply put, there are a lot of things to learn and try while traveling. For those of you who love Thailand and get to work or learn there, traveling in Thailand is something you don’t want to miss. Before you do, though, there are some Thai phrases to know when traveling to Thailand.

For instance, once you leave the bigger cities in Thailand, you may find that most Thai people don’t speak English. So if you know basic Thai phrases for travelers, your life will be so much easier. The common Thai phrases for travelers that ThaiPod101.com will provide for you in this article will help you to get necessary information for traveling. With this list of common Thai travel phrases, you’ll be able to travel to many places in Thailand. And during the trip, you can see how Thai people live and travel.

Ready to learn Thai travel phrases? Without further ado, here’s one of our travel guides in Thailand, all about the Thai language! First, we’ll learn Thai basic words when traveling to Thailand.

Table of Contents

  1. Basic Expressions
  2. Transportation
  3. Shopping
  4. Restaurants
  5. Asking for and Giving Directions
  6. Emergencies
  7. Flattery Phrases
  8. Useful Phrases to go through Language Problems
  9. Handy Phrases During the Trip
  10. Tips
  11. Conclusion

Log

1. Basic Expressions

Preparing to Travel

Let’s start simple with basic Thai words for travelers. Below is a list of ways to greet in Thai when traveling to Thailand.

1- สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dii)

  • Meaning: “Hello; Goodbye”
  • Language breakdown: สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dii) is literally “goodness, beauty, prosperity, and safety” in Thai. And because of its positive meaning, Thai people use this word as a greeting to wish others well.
  • Cultural background/relevance: Thai people have formally used สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dii) as “hello” and “goodbye” since January 22, 1943. When Thai people say สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dii), they often do an action called ไหว้ (wâi) as well. Generally, if you want to ไหว้ (wâi), mirror the pictures below.

How to ไหว้ [wâi]

2- ขอบคุณ (khàawp-khun)

  • Meaning: “Thank you”
  • Language breakdown: As opposed to สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dii), there’s no literal meaning of this word in the Thai language. Thai people use this word to show that they appreciate what other parties do for them.
  • Cultural background/relevance: Thai people often ไหว้ (wâi) when saying ขอบคุณ (khàawp-khun) as an action to show their gratitude, as they do when greeting.

3- ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot)

  • Meaning: “Sorry”
  • Language breakdown: ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot) is literally “ask for forgiveness” in Thai. Thai people use this word to show that they’re sorry for what they did.
  • Cultural background/relevance: If you come to Thailand, you really should learn how to ไหว้ (wâi). Thai people also do this action when they say ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot).

4- ใช่ (châi)

  • Meaning: “Yes”
  • Cultural background: There’s a body gesture that Thai people do when saying ใช่ (châi); they sometimes nod their head a few times as a way to say ใช่ (châi).

5- ไม่ใช่ (mâi châi)

  • Meaning: “No”
  • Language breakdown: The word ไม่ (mâi) is “no” or “not” in Thai. Combined with ใช่ (châi), the word ไม่ใช่ (mâi châi), means “not yes,” which is “no.” Thai people often use ไม่ (mâi) as a word to make a sentence negative.
  • Cultural background/relevance: Many Thai people use a gesture when saying ไม่ใช่ (mâi châi) as well. They sometimes shake their head a few times as a way to say ไม่ใช่ (mâi châi).

2. Transportation

Plane Phrases

There’s no denying that transportation is a huge part of any trip. Trying to travel in a country you’re not familiar with can be hard. However, if you know some Thai phrases for travelers, it will be a bit easier.

1- ไปที่….. (bpai thîi…..)

  • Meaning: “I want to go to …..”
  • Language breakdown: ไป (bpai) means “go” in Thai and ที่ (thîi) means “at.” This may seem a little bit weird as there’s no word that means “I want to.” As a Thai learner, you should know one characteristic of the Thai language: If Thai people know that another party understands who the subject of a sentence is, they just cut it out of the sentence. In this example, Thai people automatically know that the speaker is the one who wants to go, so they only say ไปที่….. (bpai thîi…..).

2- ไปที่…..ได้มั๊ย (bpai thîi…..dâi mái)

  • Meaning: “Can you go to…..?”
  • Language breakdown: Thai people put ได้มั๊ย (dâi mái) at the end of sentences, and it means “can you?” or “can I?” in Thai. Continuing from the sentence above, when putting ได้มั๊ย (dâi mái) at the end of a sentence, it means, “Can you go to…..?” Similar to the sentence above, Thai people just cut “you” out of the sentence as they assume the taxi driver understands that he/she is the one being asked.
  • Cultural background/relevance: Taking a taxi is a convenient way of traveling in big cities. However, drivers don’t know all locations. So you should ask if the driver can get you to your destination or not.

3- ป้ายรถเมล์อยู่ที่ไหน (bpâai rót mee yùu thîi năi)

  • Meaning: “Where is the bus stop?”
  • Language breakdown: ป้ายรถเมล์ (pâi-ród-may) is “bus stop” in Thai. อยู่ (yùu) is one of the words for “be” in Thai. And ที่ไหน (thîi năi) is “where” in Thai. As opposed to English, Thai people switch the order of the sentence so it becomes ป้ายรถเมล์อยู่ที่ไหน (bpâai rót mee yùu thîi năi).
  • Cultural background/relevance: Not all cities in Thailand have taxis, so another choice for traveling in the cities is taking a bus.

4- จะไปที่….ถ้าถึงแล้วบอกหน่อยได้มั๊ย (jà bpai thîi …. thâa thǔeng láaeo bàawk nàauy dâi mái)

  • Meaning: “I’m going to ….., please tell me when we arrive.”
  • Language breakdown: The first part of this sentence is similar to the one above, so we’ll skip that part and focus on the latter half. ถ้าถึงแล้ว (thâa thǔeng láaeo) means “when arrive.” บอก (bàawk) means “tell.” And หน่อยได้มั๊ย (nàauy dâi mái) is a phrase Thai people put at the end of a sentence, and means “Can you?” or “Can I?” in Thai. But as mentioned before, since the other parties should know that he/she is being asked, people cut “you” out of the sentence.
  • Cultural background/relevance: If you plan to travel in the city by bus, it may be a bit hard and confusing. You may be able to find information in advance, such as which bus you should take and from where. However, as the names for each bus stop aren’t shown, you won’t know when you should get off. This is even a problem for Thai people.

    Sometimes, staff on a bus called กระเป๋ารถเมล์ (grà-bpǎo rót mee) will say the name of the bus stop, but you may not be familiar enough with Thai pronunciation to be sure of whether it’s the place you want to go or not. So it’s best to ask the กระเป๋ารถเมล์ (grà-bpǎo rót mee) about this when you pay for your ticket using this sentence.

  • Additional note: When you take a bus in Thai, you’ll find two staff members on the bus. One is the driver and the other is called กระเป๋ารถเมล์ (grà-bpǎo rót mee). There’s no English word for กระเป๋ารถเมล์ (grà-bpǎo rót mee), but he/she is the one who sells you the ticket. When you get on the bus, you should first find an available seat. After that, the กระเป๋ารถเมล์ (grà-bpǎo rót mee) will come to sell the ticket to you.

5- จะไปที่…..ต้องลงสถานีไหน (jà bpai thîi ….. dtâawng long sà-thăa-nii năi)

  • Meaning: “I’m going to……, which station should I get off?”
  • Language breakdown: We’ll skip the first part and focus on the latter part, like we did above, since it’s the same. สถานี (sà-thăa-nii) is “station” in Thai. ไหน (nǎi) is “which” in Thai. And ต้องลง (dtâawng long) means “should get off” in Thai. Putting all of this together, it means, “Which station should I get off?” As you can guess, Thai people just cut out the word “I” since they assume other parties know that the one who asks is the one who wants to get off.
  • Cultural background/relevance: Fortunately for BTS (which is only available in Bangkok) and the train, the names of the stations are shown. This means that you can ask the staff which station you should get off at in order to reach your destination.

6- ซื้อตั๋วที่ไหน (súue dtǔua thîi năi)

  • Meaning: “Where can I buy a ticket?”
  • Language breakdown: ซื้อ (súue) is “buy” in Thai. ตั๋ว (dtǔua) is “ticket” in Thai. And ที่ไหน (thîi năi) is “where” in Thai. Combining everything together, you get ซื้อตั๋วที่ไหน (súue dtǔua thîi năi), which means, “Where can I buy a ticket?” in Thai. You may notice that in the Thai language, the question words such as “where,” “can I?,” and “can you?” are put at the end of the sentence, which is opposite to English.
  • Cultural background/relevance: When taking a bus, as mentioned above, you can pay after you get on. But for BTS and train, you have to buy the ticket before getting on. Normally, the ticket booth is near the station.

7- ซื้อตั๋วไปที่…..สำหรับ…..คน (súue dtǔua bpai thîi…..sǎm-ràp……khon)

  • Meaning: “I want to buy ticket(s) for going to ….. for ….. persons.”
  • Language breakdown: You already know the meaning of the first part of the sentence from above, so here we’ll focus on the last part. สำหรับ (sǎm-ràp) means “for” in Thai. And คน (khon) is “unit for person” in Thai. So all together it means, “I want to buy ticket(s) for going to ….. for ….. persons.” The word “I want” is naturally cut out of the sentence.

3. Shopping

Basic Questions

Here comes many people’s favorite activity: shopping. Buying things from the local area is a must when you go on a trip. Of course, you’ll want to buy food, drinks, traditional products, as well as souvenirs. Learning Thai phrases for travel helps, particularly the Thailand travel phrases below.

1- ราคาเท่าไหร่ (raa-khaa thâo-rài)

  • Meaning: “How much is this?”
  • Language breakdown: ราคา (raa-khaa) means “price” in Thai. And เท่าไหร่ (thâo-rài) means “how much.” Since you may not know the name of the thing you want, you can point at it and say ราคาเท่าไหร่ (raa-khaa thâo-rài) in order to ask, “How much is this?”

2- มีโปรโมชั่นมั๊ย (mii bproo-moo-chân mái)

  • Meaning: “Is there any promotion?”
  • Language breakdown: มี (mii) is “have,” or in this case, “there is” in Thai. The word มั๊ย (mái) has no meaning, but Thai people put it at the end of a sentence to make it a question.
  • Cultural background/relevance: If you’re shopping from locals, this phrase may not be very useful as they normally don’t have promotions. But if you buy from a big store, don’t forget to ask. If you buy a lot, they may even give you something for free even if there’s no promotion.

3- ลดได้มั๊ย (lót dâi mái)

  • Meaning: “Can you give me a discount?”
  • Language breakdown: You’ll see that Thai people cut a lot of words out of this sentence. ลดราคา (lót raa-khaa) is “discount” in Thai. However, people shorten this word here to ลด (lót). And as mentioned before, ได้มั๊ย (dâi mái) is the word Thai people put at the end of sentences and it means “Can you?” or “Can I?” in Thai. Basically, there’s no “you” or “me” in this sentence.
  • Cultural background/relevance: For food and drink, normally, Thai people don’t ask for discounts. However, for other products, you can try asking for a discount, as some sellers already set their price a little bit higher just in case a customer does ask for a discount. Don’t forget to smile sweetly when you ask for a discount, that may help. ^^

4- ที่นี่อะไรขายดี (thîi nîi à-rai khǎai dii)

  • Meaning: “What is the best seller here?”
  • Language breakdown: ที่นี่ (thîi nîi) is “here” in Thai, อะไร (à-rai) is “what” in Thai, and ขายดี (khǎai dii) is “sell a lot” in Thai. Actually, the literal Thai meaning of this sentence is, “What is being sold a lot here?” But in English, people don’t normally ask like that, so it is equal to “What is the best seller here?”
  • Cultural background/relevance: When you go to a souvenir shop, you may have no idea what to buy since you may not know what the products are. You can ask this and see what’s popular.

5- มีอันใหม่มั๊ย (mii an mài mái)

  • Meaning: “Do you have a new one?”
  • Language breakdown: มี (mii) is “have” in Thai, อันใหม่ (an mài) is “new one,” and as you may remember, the word มั๊ย (mái) has no meaning but Thai people put it at the end of sentences to make it a question. In this sentence, Thai people cut “you” out of the sentence as they assume people should know that you’re the one asking. So by combining everything together, we get มีอันใหม่มั๊ย (mii an mài mái).
  • Cultural background/relevance: Sometimes, the product that’s shown may look a little dirty because a lot of people have touched it or tried it out. If you want to buy it, you can always ask and see if the seller has a new one or not.

6- มีสีอื่นมั๊ย (mii sǐi ùuen mái)

  • Meaning: “Do you have another color?”
  • Language breakdown: This sentence is pretty similar to the one above, so we’ll focus only on the part that’s different. สีอื่น (sǐi ùuen) means “other color” in Thai. The rest is the same.

7- มีขนาดอื่นมั๊ย (mii khà-nàat ùuen mái)

  • Meaning: “Do you have another size?”
  • Language breakdown: Again, this sentence is very similar to the one above so we’ll only focus on the part that’s different. ขนาดอื่น (khà-nàat ùuen) means “other size” in Thai. The rest is the same.
  • Cultural background/relevance: When you buy clothes in Thailand, even with no fitting room, you can try the clothes on. Most of the time, the seller has a ผ้าถุง (phâa-thǔng), which means “sarong” in Thai, for you to use. You may feel a little bit weird, but that’s how Thai people do it when they buy clothes from a small shop.

8- จ่ายด้วยบัตรเครดิตได้มั๊ย (jàai dûuai bàt khree-dìt dâi mái)

  • Meaning: “Can I pay with a credit card?”
  • Language breakdown: จ่าย (jàai) means “pay” in Thai, ด้วย (dûuai) means “with,” บัตรเครดิต (bàt khree-dìtt) means “credit card,” and lastly, ได้มั๊ย (dâi mái) is the word Thai people put at the end of sentences and it means “Can you?” or “Can I?” in Thai. Of course, Thai people also cut the subject from the sentence, which is “I” in this case.
  • Cultural background/relevance: If you go to a big department store, they normally accept credit cards with no additional charge. However, most local stores don’t allow credit cards. If they do, you should check if there’s an additional charge or not.

Can I Pay with a Credit Card?

4. Restaurants

One of the activities people do—whether they travel or not—is eating. So let’s learn some useful Thai travel phrases you can use in restaurants in Thailand.

1- ขอเมนูหน่อย (khǎaw mee-nuu nàauy)

  • Meaning: “Menu, please.”
  • Language breakdown: ขอ (khǎaw) is “ask for” in Thai. And หน่อย (nàauy) has no meaning in this case. Thai people normally put this word at the end of a sentence.
  • Cultural background/relevance: If you go to a small local restaurant, the menu is shown on the wall instead of in book form.

2- สั่งอาหารหน่อย (sàng aa-hǎan nàauy)

  • Meaning: “Order, please.”
  • Language breakdown: สั่ง (sàng) is “order” in Thai., อาหาร (aa-hǎan) is “food,” and just like above, หน่อย (nàauy) is no-meaning word Thai people put at the end of sentences.

Order, Please

3- เอา….. (ao…..)

  • Meaning: “I want…..”
  • Language breakdown: Actually, เอา (ao) means “take,” but in this case, it means “want.” Naturally, Thai people assume that the other party knows that the speaker is the one who wants food, so they cut “I” out of the sentence.

4- อันนี้เจมั๊ย (an níi jee mái)

  • Meaning: “Is this vegetarian food?”
  • Language breakdown: อันนี้ (an níi) means “this” in Thai, and อาหารเจ (aa-hǎan jee) is “vegetarian food.” But Thai people just shorten the word by cutting อาหาร (aa-hǎan) out, as when people say เจ (jee), Thai people automatically understand that it means “vegetarian food.” The word มั๊ย (mái) has no meaning, but Thai people put it at the end of a sentence to make it a question.
  • Cultural background/relevance: In Thai, there’s a certain period during each year when some people will eat a vegetarian food called เทศกาลกินเจ (thêet-sà-gaan gin jee). Still, some restaurants serve vegetarian food year-round as well. You can look for the sign indicating that vegetarian food is served, which is a yellow flag.

5- แพ้…..กินได้มั๊ย (pháae…..gin dâi mái)

  • Meaning: “I’m allergic to……, can I eat this?”
  • Language breakdown: แพ้ (pháae) can mean “lose” or “allergic” in Thai. กิน (gin) means “eat,” and as already shown above, ได้มั๊ย (dâi mái) is the word Thai people put at the end of sentences and it means “Can you?” or “Can I?” in Thai. And as usual, Thai people cut out the subject of the sentence.
  • Cultural background/relevance: Not many restaurants show the ingredients of the dishes on their menu, so if you’re not sure if you can eat it or not, you should ask to be safe.

6- เอาเผ็ดน้อย (ao phèt náauy)

  • Meaning: “Please make it less spicy.”
  • Language breakdown: As mentioned before, เอา (ao) means “take,” but in this case it means “want.” เผ็ด (phèt) means “spicy” or “hot” in Thai, and น้อย (náauy) means “little.” Literally, this sentence means “want little spicy” which is equivalent to “make it less spicy” in English.
  • Cultural background/relevance: Thai food is known to be spicy. If you’re not sure whether you can eat spicy food or not, but still want to try spicy Thai food, you can ask them to make it less spicy.

7- เอาไม่เผ็ด (ao mâi phèt)

  • Meaning: “Please make it not spicy.”
  • Language breakdown: You’ve already learned each of these three words from this article. เอา (ao) means “take” but is “want” in this case. The word ไม่ (mâi) is “no” or “not” in Thai, and เผ็ด (phèt) means “spicy” or “hot” in Thai.
  • Cultural background/relevance: For those who can’t endure spicy food, you can ask them to make it not spicy. For some recipes, if they can, they’ll do it for you.

I Can't Eat Spicy Food

8- เก็บเงินหน่อย (gèp ngooen nàauy)

  • Meaning: “Bill, please.”
  • Language breakdown: เก็บ (gèp) is “collect” in Thai, เงิน (ngooen) is “money,” and หน่อย (nàauy) has no meaning but Thai people put it at the end of sentences. So in total, it literally means, “Collect money please,” which is “Bill, please,” in English.
  • Cultural background/relevance: You can also use a body gesture for this as well. Once you get your waiter’s or waitress’ attention, you point your forefinger to the food on your table and then make a circle. They’ll understand what you mean.

5. Asking for and Giving Directions

When you go someplace you’ve never been before, you naturally need help with directions. So you should remember the following Thai phrases for travelers.

How Do I Get To…..?

1- ไป……ยังไง (bpai…..yang-ngai)

  • Meaning: “How to go to …..?”
  • Language breakdown: ยังไง (yang-ngai) is “how to” in Thai. ไป (bpai) is “go.” This one is quite simple. Combining both, it’s ไป……ยังไง (bpai…..yang-ngai).
  • Cultural background/relevance: Thai people are kind and willing to help. If you’re not sure if your pronunciation of the place is correct or not, you can show the picture or the Thai name of the place to help you communicate better.

How To Go To…..?

2- เลี้ยวซ้าย (líiao sáai)

  • Meaning: “Turn left.”
  • Language breakdown: This one is also very simple. เลี้ยว (líiao) is “turn” in Thai and ซ้าย (sáai) is “left” in Thai.

3- เลี้ยวขวา (líiao khwǎa)

  • Meaning: “Turn right.”
  • Language breakdown: From the phrase above, you already know what เลี้ยว (líiao) means. So let’s focus on the last word. ขวา (khwǎa) is “right” in Thai.

4- ตรงไป (dtrong-bpai)

  • Meaning: “Go straight.”
  • Language breakdown: This one is easy too. ตรง (dtrong) is “straight” in Thai. And as mentioned before, ไป (bpai) is “go” in Thai.

5- เดินไปได้มั๊ย (dooen bpai dâi mái)

  • Meaning: “Can I walk there?”
  • Language breakdown: เดิน (dooen) is “walk” in Thai, ไป (bpai) is “go,” and ได้มั๊ย (dâi mái) is the word Thai people put at the end of sentences and it means, “Can you?” or “Can I?” Combining everything together, its meaning isn’t like English. That’s because Thai people cut “I” and “there” out. They assume that the speaker is the one going there.
  • Cultural background/relevance: You can ask local people whether you can walk to your destination or not. Sometimes, it may seem far on the map, but there’s a shortcut. You may hear these two words in the answer: ใกล้ (glâi) which is “close” and ไกล (glai) which is “far.”

6. Emergencies

Survival Phrases

Despite wishing against them, emergency situations can happen any time. In case you find yourself in an emergency, it’ll be very useful if you can communicate in Thai a little. So let’s practice some of these basic Thai phrases for travelers.

1- ช่วยด้วย (chûuai dûuai)

  • Meaning: “Help.”
  • Language breakdown: ช่วยด้วย (chûuai dûuai) is the phrase Thai people use to ask for help in Thai. It can be used to ask for help in most emergency situations.
  • Cultural background/relevance: Thai people are very kind and willing to help. If you say ช่วยด้วย (chûuai dûuai), meaning “help,” Thai people will try to help you.

2- เรียกรถพยาบาลให้หน่อย (rîiak rót phá-yaa-baan hâi nàauy)

  • Meaning: “Please call an ambulance for me.”
  • Language breakdown: เรียก (rîiak) is “call” in Thai, รถพยาบาล (rót phá-yaa-baan) is “ambulance,” and ให้หน่อย (hâi nàauy) is the phrase Thai people put at the end of a requesting sentence.
  • Cultural background/relevance: In case you want to be more specific that you need medical assistance, you can just say this sentence. The cost for Thai medical treatment isn’t very high compared to other countries. Thai hospitals are also known to be destinations for “medical tourism,” so you don’t have to worry much.

3- ฉันรู้สึกไม่ดี (chǎn rúu-sùek mâi dii)

  • Meaning: “I don’t feel well.”
  • Language breakdown: ฉัน (chǎn) is “I” in Thai and รู้สึก (rúu-sùek) is “feel.” As mentioned before, ไม่ (mâi) is “not” in Thai. And ดี (dii) is “good” or “well” in Thai. So combining everything together, you get: “I don’t feel well.”
  • Cultural background/relevance: You can use this sentence to convey that you don’t feel alright. This is quite useful to know, as you don’t have to identify how you feel bad. This is enough for the listener to know that you need medical attention.

4- ฉันเจ็บ (chǎn jèp)

  • Meaning: “I am hurt.”
  • Language breakdown: As mentioned in the sentence above, ฉัน (chǎn) is “I” in Thai. And เจ็บ (jèp) is “hurt” in Thai.

5- สถานีตำรวจอยู่ที่ไหน (sà-thǎa-nii dtam-rùuat yùu thîi nǎi)

  • Meaning: “Where is the police station?”
  • Language breakdown: สถานี (sà-thǎa-nii) is “station” in Thai, ตำรวจ (dtam-rùuat) is “policeman”, อยู่ (yùu) is one of the words for “be” in Thai, and ที่ไหน (thîi nǎi) is “where.”
  • Cultural background/relevance: If you lose something in Thailand, the sad fact is that getting it back is unlikely. You may need a document from the police for an insurance claim, or in order to get a new passport if you lost yours.

6- โรงพยาบาลอยู่ที่ไหน (roong-pháa-yaa-baan yùu thîi nǎi)

  • Meaning: “Where is the hospital?”
  • Language breakdown: This sentence is pretty similar to the one above, and is another of the most basic Thai travel words and phrases. The only difference is โรงพยาบาล (roong-pháa-yaa-baan), which is “hospital” in Thai.
  • Cultural background/relevance: If you’re in Bangkok, it’s not too hard to find a hospital as there are plenty here. Some of these hospitals have staff members who can speak other languages, such as Japanese and Korean. But if you’re in a suburban area, there may not be many hospitals in those areas.

7- ร้านขายยาอยู่ที่ไหน (ráan khǎai yaa yùu thîi nǎi)

  • Meaning: “Where is the drug store?”
  • Language breakdown: Again, this is a similar sentence to the one above. The only difference is ร้านขายยา (ráan khǎai yaa) which is “drug store” in Thai.
  • Cultural background/relevance: In Thailand, when you go to the hospital, it’s kind of a one-stop service. You meet the doctor and get the medicine from the hospital. However, if you’re not seriously ill, you can buy some medicine from a drug store without a medical prescription.

8- ฉันทำพาสปอร์ตหาย (chǎn tham pháat-bpàawt hǎai)

  • Meaning: “I lost my passport.”
  • Language breakdown: ฉัน (chǎn) is “I” in Thai, and ทำ…หาย (tham…..hǎai) is “lost….” There’s no “my” in Thai sentences because Thai people assume that other parties know that since “I” is the speaker, it should be “my” passport that is lost.
  • Cultural background/relevance: In case you lose your passport in Thai, you need to go to the police station to get the document to use at the embassy.

7. Flattery Phrases

When you travel, you may like the food you eat, the places you see, or even start to like the people there. Here are common Thai phrases for travelers you can use to show how you feel.

1- ฉันชอบ….. (chǎn châawp…..)

  • Meaning: “I like ……”
  • Language breakdown: ฉัน (chǎn) is “I” in Thai, ชอบ (châawp) is “like.” Then, you can put anything you want to say that you like after this phrase, such as:
    • คนไทย (khon thai) is “Thai people” in Thai.
    • อาหารไทย (aa-hǎan thai) is “Thai food” in Thai.
    • ประเทศไทย (bprà-thêet thai) is “Thailand” in Thai.

2- ที่นี่สวยมาก (thîi nîi sǔuai mâak)

  • Meaning: “This place is very beautiful.”
  • Language breakdown: ที่นี่ (thîi nîi) is “this place” or “here” in Thai. สวย (sǔuai) is “beautiful” and มาก (mâak) is “very.”

3- อาหารอร่อยมาก (aa-hǎan à-ràauy mâak)

  • Meaning: “This food is very delicious.”
  • Language breakdown: อาหาร (aa-hǎan) is “food” in Thai, อร่อย (à-ràauy) is “delicious,” and as mentioned above, มาก (mâak) is “very.”

4- อันนี้กลิ่นหอมมาก (an níi glìn hǎawm mâak)

  • Meaning: “This smells very nice.”
  • Language breakdown: อันนี้ (an níi) is “this” in Thai, กลิ่นหอม (glìn hǎawm) is “smell nice,” and มาก (mâak) is “very.”

5- อันนี้น่ารักมาก (an níi nâa-rák mâak)

  • Meaning: “This is very cute.”
  • Language breakdown: This sentence is similar to the one above. The only difference is น่ารัก (nâa-rák), which is “cute” in Thai.

6- คุณใจดีมาก (khun jai-dii mâak)

  • Meaning: “You are so kind.”
  • Language breakdown: คุณ (khun) is “you” in Thai, ใจดี(jai-dii) is “kind,” and มาก (mâak) is “very.”
  • Cultural background/relevance: Thai people are known to be kind. If you get help from Thai people and you really appreciate it, you can say this to them.

8. Useful Phrases to go through Language Problems

World Map

Generally, not all Thai people can speak English, so some people decide to learn basic Thai in order to communicate better during the trip. In this case, these common Thai travel phrases will be very useful for you. Be sure to study these Thai phrases for tourists and practice often!

1- คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้มั๊ย (khun phûut phaa-săa ang-grìt dâi mái)

  • Meaning: “Can you speak English?”
  • Language breakdown: คุณ (khun) is “you” in Thai, พูด (phûut) is “speak,” ภาษา (phaa-săa) is “language,” and อังกฤษ (ang-grìt) is “English.” And as mentioned before, ได้มั๊ย (dâi mái) is the word Thai people put at the end of sentences and it means “Can you?” or “Can I?” in Thai.
  • Cultural background/relevance: In case you want to ask someone something, but you’re not sure if they can speak English or not, you should ask them this. If they can’t speak English, they’ll shake their head to say “no.” But if they can speak English, they’ll reply back to you in English.

2- ฉันพูดภาษาไทยไม่ได้ (chǎn phûut phaa-săa thai mâi dâi)

  • Meaning: “I can’t speak Thai.”
  • Language breakdown: ฉัน (chǎn) is “I” in Thai, พูด (phûut) is “speak,” and ไม่ได้ (mâi dâi) is the word you put after a verb to show that you “can’t” do that action. ภาษา (phaa-săa) is “language” and ไทย (Thai) is “Thai.”
  • Cultural background/relevance: If you’re Asian, Thai people may assume that you’re Thai and try to speak Thai to you. You can use this sentence to tell them that you can’t speak Thai.

3- ฉันไม่เข้าใจ พูดอีกครั้งได้มั๊ย (chǎn mâi khâo-jai phûut ìik khráng dâi mái)

  • Meaning: “I don’t understand. Can you say that again?”
  • Language breakdown: ฉัน (chǎn) is “I” in Thai, ไม่ (mâi) is “no” or “not,” เข้าใจ (khâo-jai) is “understand,” พูด (phûut) is “speak,” and อีกครั้ง (ìik khráng) is “again.” ได้มั๊ย (dâi mái) is the word Thai people put at the end of sentences and it means “Can you?” or “Can I?” in Thai.
  • Cultural background/relevance: After you say this sentence to Thai people, they’ll either speak slower or use body language to help with communication.

4- ช่วยพูดช้า ๆ หน่อย (chûuai phûut cháa cháa nàauy)

  • Meaning: “Speak slowly please.”
  • Language breakdown: พูด (phûut) is “speak” in Thai, ช้า ๆ (cháa cháa) is “slow,” and as explained before, หน่อย (nàauy) is the word Thai people put at the end of sentences when asking for help. It has no meaning in this case.

5- เขียนให้ได้มั๊ย (khǐian hâi dâi mái)

  • Meaning: “Can you write it down?”
  • Language breakdown: เขียน (khǐian) is “write” in Thai, and ได้มั๊ย (dâi mái) is the word Thai people put at the end of sentences and it means “Can you?” or “Can I?” in Thai. The word ให้ (hâi) is the shortened version of ให้ฉัน (hâi chǎn), which means “for me” in Thai.
  • Cultural background/relevance: Thai pronunciation can be hard. If you’re not sure of something, you can ask Thai people to write it down.

6- อันนี้อ่านยังไง (an níi àan yang-ngai)

  • Meaning: “How to read this?”
  • Language breakdown: อันนี้ (an níi) is “this” in Thai, อ่าน (àan) is “read,” and ยังไง (yang-ngai) is “how.”
  • Cultural background/relevance: As mentioned before, Thai pronunciation is hard. With just a slight change of tone, the meaning of a word can become different. So if you’re not sure how to read each word, you should ask Thai people to help.

9. Handy Phrases During the Trip

Besides all of the sentences above, ThaiPod101.com thinks the following may also be handy for travelers.

1- ช่วยถ่ายรูปให้ได้มั๊ย (chûuai thàai rûup hâi dâi mái)

  • Meaning: “Can you take a picture for me?”
  • Language breakdown: ช่วย (chûuai) is “help” in Thai, ถ่ายรูป (thàai rûup) is “take picture,” and ได้มั๊ย (dâi mái) is the word Thai people put at the end of sentences and it means “Can you?” or “Can I?”
  • Cultural background/relevance: Thai people love to take pictures and selfies. So you don’t have to be shy if you want to take a picture. Thai people are willing to help if you ask them to take a picture for you.

2- ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน (hâawng-nám yùu thîi nǎi)

  • Meaning: “Where is the toilet?”
  • Language breakdown: ห้องน้ำ (hâawng-nám) is “toilet” in Thai, อยู่ (yùu) is one of the words for “be” in Thai, and ที่ไหน (thîi nǎi) is “where.”
  • Cultural background/relevance: In big cities, toilets for males and females are separated most of the time. But if you go to a rural area, in some places there may not be separate bathrooms for males and females.

Where Is the Toilet?

10. Tips

To make a sentence sound formal in Thai, Thai people put the words ครับ (khráp) and ค่ะ (khâ) at the end of sentences when speaking. ครับ (khráp) is used when the speaker is male, while ค่ะ (khâ) is used when the speaker is female. If you want to say sorry informally, there’s no need to put ครับ (khráp) or ค่ะ (khâ) at the end of a sentence.

Apart from ครับ (khráp) and ค่ะ (khâ), Thai people sometimes put นะ () at the end of informal sentences to make them sound more friendly. These words are คำลงท้าย (kham-long-tháai) in Thai.

11. Conclusion

As you can see, in the Thai language, there are a lot of travel phrases for you to learn. Continue studying the Thai travel phrases in English above, because with these travel phrases in your Thai vocabulary, your trip will be more convenient and go a lot more smoothly. We also hope that you see now why travel phrases in Thai language learning are so important and useful.

So keep practicing and don’t be shy to use them in real situations, so that you’ll soon be able to more effectively talk with Thai people, including travel guides in Thailand that you meet!

Once you can remember all of these common phrases for travelers, you can begin studying other interesting lessons such as the most common text slang or ten lines you need to know for self-introduction at ThaiPod101.com.

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How To Post In Perfect Thai on Social Media

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You’re learning to speak Thai, and it’s going well. Your confidence is growing! So much so that you feel ready to share your experiences on social media—in Thai.

At Learn Thai, we make this easy for you to get it right the first time. Post like a boss with these phrases and guidelines, and get to practice your Thai in the process.

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Thai

1. Talking about Your Restaurant Visit in Thai

Eating out is fun, and often an experience you’d like to share. Take a pic, and start a conversation on social media in Thai. Your friend will be amazed by your language skills…and perhaps your taste in restaurants!

Win eats at a restaurant with his friends, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

POST

Let’s break down win’s post.

ไปทานอาหารญี่ปุ่นกับเพื่อนๆ (bpai thaan aa-hăan yîi-bpùn gàp phûuean phûuean)
“Having Japanese food with friends.”

1- ไปทานอาหารญี่ปุ่น (bpai thaan aa-hăan yîi-bpùn )

First is an expression meaning “Went to have Japanese food.”
In Thailand, Japanese food is very popular. Thai people are crazy about Japanese food, and because of this, it is common for new-generation Thais to eat out at Japanese restaurants in big shopping malls.

2- กับเพื่อนๆ (gàp phûuean phûuean)

Then comes the phrase – “With friends.”
The repetition of the word “friend” implies that there was more than one friend with him.

COMMENTS

In response, win’s friends leave some comments.

1- ไว้นัดกันอีกนะจ๊ะ (wái nát gan ìik ná já)

His high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “Let’s meet again!”
Use this expression to show you are eager to repeat this meeting with friends.

2- วันนี้สนุกมากเลยเนอะ ^^ (wan-níi sà-nùk mâak looei nóe)

His girlfriend, fáa, uses an expression meaning – “Today was so fun.”
Use this expression to indicate you enjoyed the experience.

3- อาหารร้านนั้นอร่อยมากๆค่ะ (aa-hăan ráan nán a-ràauy mâak mâak khâ)

His neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “The food there is very good.”
Use this expression to compliment the food.

4- ขอบใจที่ชวนมานะ เพื่อน (khàawp-jai thîi chuuan maa ná phûuean)

His college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “Thanks for asking me out, dude.”
Use this expression to show you are feeling grateful towards your friend for the invitation.

VOCABULARY

Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • อาหาร (aa-hăan): “food”
  • ญี่ปุ่น (yîi-bpùn): “Japan or Japanese”
  • นัด (nát): “make a meeting or appointment”
  • สนุก (sà-nùk): “have fun”
  • ร้าน (ráan): “shop, restaurant, store”
  • อร่อย (à-ràauy): “delicious”
  • ชวน (chuuan): “ask out or invite”
  • So, let’s practice a bit. If a friend posted something about having dinner with friends, which phrase would you use?

    Now go visit a Thai restaurant, and wow the staff with your language skills!

    2. Post about Your Mall Visit in Thai

    Another super topic for social media is shopping—everybody does it, most everybody loves it, and your friends on social media are probably curious about your shopping sprees! Share these Thai phrases in posts when you visit a mall.

    fáa shop with her sister at the mall, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down fáa’s post.

    ชอบมาช้อปปิ้งกับพี่สาวที่สุดเลย! (châawp maa cháwp-bpîng gàp phîi-săao thîi-sùt looei)
    “I love shopping with my sister!”

    1- ชอบมาช้อปปิ้งที่สุดเลย (châawp maa cháwp-bpîng thîi-sùt looei)

    First is an expression meaning “I love to go shopping the most..”
    Thai people love shopping. Clothes and goods in Thailand are relatively cheap, while the quality and designs are quite good. Moreover, it’s normal to see people selling stuff everywhere in Thailand. For example, on the street, in a shopping mall, or at a flea market.

    2- กับพี่สาว (gàp phîi-săao)

    Then comes the phrase – “with my sister.”
    One characteristic of Thai people, especially girls, is that they love to have someone accompany them when they go out.

    COMMENTS

    In response, fáa’s friends leave some comments.

    1- อิจฉาจัง 555 (ìt-chăa jang hâa hâa hâa)

    Her high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “Jealous. Lol.”
    Use this expression to indicate you’re envious of the poster’s experience, but not in a nasty way.

    2- ซื้อขนมมาฝากไอติมด้วย (súue khà-nŏm maa fàak ai-dtim dûuai)

    Her nephew, ai-dtim, uses an expression meaning – “Buy me some snacks!”
    Use this expression to make conversation by demanding something in a playful way.

    3- คนเยอะมั๊ย (khon yóe mái)

    Her college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “Is it crowded?”
    Use this expression to show you are curious and would like to know more about the event.

    4- ตอนนี้ร้าน A ลดราคาอยู่นะจ๊ะ (dtaawn-níi ráan ee lót raa-khaa yùu ná já)

    Her neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Check out the sale in Shop A”
    Use this expression when you have advice to give that could benefit the poster.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • พี่สาว (phîi-săao): “older sister”
  • ช้อปปิ้ง (cháwp-bpîng): “shopping”
  • อิจฉา (ìt-chăa): “envy or jealous”
  • ขนม (khà-nŏm): “snacks”
  • เยอะ (yóe): “a lot, many or much”
  • ร้าน (ráan): “shop, restaurant, store”
  • ลดราคา (lót raa-khaa): “give a discount”
  • So, if a friend posted something about going shopping, which phrase would you use?

    3. Talking about a Sport Day in Thai

    Sports events, whether you’re the spectator or the sports person, offer fantastic opportunities for great social media posts. Learn some handy phrases and vocabulary to start a sport-on-the-beach conversation in Thai.

    win plays with his friends at the beach, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down win’s post.

    มาเตะบอลที่ทะเล ดำเลย (maa dtè baawn thîi thá-lee dam looei)
    “Playing soccer by the sea. Now, I’m dark.”

    1- มาเตะบอลที่ทะเล (maa dtè baawn thîi thá-lee )

    First is an expression meaning “Playing soccer by the sea..”
    The most popular sport among Thai men is soccer.

    2- ดำเลย (dam looei)

    Then comes the phrase – “Now, Im dark..”
    Thailand has strong sunlight. So by going to the sea, even without sun-bathing yourself, you tend to get darker.

    COMMENTS

    In response, win’s friends leave some comments.

    1- 555 (hâa hâa hâa)

    His girlfriend’s high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “hahaha”
    Use this expression to show that you find the post humorous.

    2- หรอ? ;P (rǎaw)

    His college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “Oh yeah? ;P”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling frivolous and are in a teasing mood.

    3- มาเล่นกับไอติมบ้างสิ (maa lêen gàp ai-dtim bâang sì)

    His girlfriend’s nephew, ai-dtim, uses an expression meaning – “Come and play with me too!”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling playful and inviting.

    4- ดูน่าสนุกจังเลยค่ะ (duu nâa sà-nùk jang looei khâ)

    His neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Looks fun.”
    Use this comment when the poster’s photo looks like a fun event.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • เตะบอล (dtè baawn): “play football”
  • ทะเล (thá-lee ): “sea”
  • ดำ (dam): “dark or black”
  • กับ (gàp ): “with”
  • เล่น (lêen): “play”
  • ดู (duu ): “look like, seem or deem”
  • น่าสนุก (nâa sà-nùk): “seem fun”
  • Which phrase would you use if a friend posted something about sports?

    But sport is not the only thing you can play! Play some music, and share it on social media.

    4. Share a Song on Social Media in Thai

    Music is the language of the soul, they say. So, don’t hold back—share what touches your soul with your friends!

    fáa shares a song she just heard at a party, posts an image of the artist, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down fáa’s post.

    เพลงนี้โดนใจสุดๆ (phleeng níi doon-jai sùt sùt)
    “I’m so loving this song.”

    1- เพลงนี้ (phleeng níi )

    First is an expression meaning “This song.”
    Unlike in English, in Thai the word ‘this’ is placed after the noun, not in front of it.

    2- โดนใจสุดๆ (doon-jai sùt sùt)

    Then comes the phrase – “to my liking” or “super impressed”.
    This phrase literally means ‘maximum hit to the heart’. It is used when talking about things that you really like, mostly songs, movies and books. Sometimes we use it with people, but only when referring to a person of the opposite sex that you like in a romantic way.

    COMMENTS

    In response, fáa’s friends leave some comments.

    1- ชอบเหมือนกัน (châawp mǔuean gan)

    Her boyfriend, win, uses an expression meaning – “I like it too.”
    Use this expression to show you agree with the poster.

    2- ชอบคนหรือชอบเพลงจ๊ะ ;P (châawp khon rǔue châawp phleeng já)

    Her high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “Do you like the person or the song? ;P”
    Use this expression to be funny.

    3- ผมก็ชอบเพลงนี้ครับ (phŏm gâaw châawp phleeng níi khráp)

    Her supervisor, non, uses an expression meaning – “I like this song too.”
    This is the same as above, meaning you say that you like something, specifically the song.

    4- เพลงอะไรอะ ป้า -“- (phleeng à-rai à bpâa)

    Her nephew, ai-dtim, uses an expression meaning – “What song is this, Aunty? -“-”
    Use this expression to show you are curious about the name of the song.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • เพลง (phleeng ): “song”
  • นี้ (níi ): “this”
  • โดนใจ (doon-jai ): “to one’s liking”
  • ชอบ (châawp ): “like”
  • เหมือนกัน (mǔuean gan): “too”
  • คน (khon): “person or people”
  • อะไร (à-rai): “what”
  • Which song would you share? And what would you say to a friend who posted something about sharing music or videos?

    Now you know how to start a conversation about a song or a video on social media!

    5. Thai Social Media Comments about a Concert

    Still on the theme of music—visiting live concerts and shows just have to be shared with your friends. Here are some handy phrases and vocab to wow your followers in Thai!

    win goes to a concert, posts an image of himself at the concert, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down win’s post.

    คอนเสิร์ตวันนี้มันส์มาก (khaawn-sòoet wan-níi man mâak)
    “Today’s concert was so fun.”

    1- คอนเสิร์ตวันนี้ (khaawn-sòoet wan-níi )

    First is an expression meaning “Today’s concert .”
    Going to concerts are one of the most popular activities that Thai people love to enjoy.

    2- มันส์มาก (man mâak)

    Then comes the phrase – “Was so much fun.”
    This word is often used in spoken language and on social media.

    COMMENTS

    In response, win’s friends leave some comments.

    1- คอนเสิร์ตใครน่ะ (khaawn-sòoet khrai nâ)

    His college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “Whose concert was it?”
    Use this expression if you need more information.

    2- น่าสนุกจังเลยค่ะ 🙂 (nâa sà-nùk jang looei khâ)

    His neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Sounds fun.”
    Use this expression if you want to comment shortly but positively.

    3- สนุกมั๊ย อยากไปบ้าง (sà-nùk mái yàak bpai bâang)

    His high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “Was it fun? I wanna go too.”
    Use these phrases to show your interest in the topic, and express that you’d like to have the same experience.

    4- ไม่เคยชวนเลยนะ 🙁 (mâi khooei chuuan looei ná)

    His girlfriend’s nephew, ai-dtim, uses an expression meaning – “You never invited me!”
    Use this expression to show you feel a bit left out.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • คอนเสิร์ต (khaawn-sòoet ): “concert”
  • วันนี้ (wan-níi ): “today”
  • มันส์ (man): “so much fun”
  • ใคร (khrai): “who or whose”
  • สนุก (sà-nùk): “fun”
  • อยาก (yàak): “want”
  • ชวน (chuuan): “ask out or invite”
  • If a friend posted something about a concert , which phrase would you use?

    6. Talking about an Unfortunate Accident in Thai

    Oh dear. You broke something by accident. Use these Thai phrases to start a thread on social media. Or maybe just to let your friends know why you are not contacting them!

    fáa accidentally breaks her mobile phone, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down fáa’s post.

    ทำมือถือตกแตก T T (tham muue-thǔue dtòk dtàaek)
    “I dropped and broke my cell. ”

    1- มือถือ (muue-thǔue)

    First is an expression meaning “cell-phone.”
    Nowadays, everyone in Thailand has a cellphone, and they’re addicted to social networks.

    2- ทำ…ตกแตก (tham…dtòk dtàaek)

    Then comes the phrase – “drop and break it.”
    A phrase describing the action of dropping something and breaking it instantly.

    COMMENTS

    In response, fáa’s friends leave some comments.

    1- ลองเอาไปให้ที่ศูนย์โทรศัพท์ดูนะ (laawng ao bpai hâi thîi sǔun thoo-rá-sàp duu ná)

    Her boyfriend, win, uses an expression meaning – “Take it to the phone center.”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling determined.

    2- ใจเย็นๆนะคะ เดี๋ยวก็ซ่อมได้ (jai yen-yen ná khá dĭiao gâaw sâawm dâi)

    Her neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Calm down. It’ll be fixed.”
    Use this expression to give advice and remind the poster that the issue is not such a big problem.

    3- โห สภาพน่ากลัวมาก (hŏo sà-phâap nâa-gluua mâak)

    Her college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “OMG. It looks horrible.”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling shocked by something’s appearance. In this context, it’s also expressing a sort of sympathy.

    4- ถือว่าได้โอกาสเปลี่ยนเครื่องใหม่เลยไง (thǔue wâa dâi oo-gàat bplìian khrûueang mài looei ngai)

    Her high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “Think of it as a way to switch to a new cell.”
    Use this expression to be funny and encouraging at the same time.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • มือถือ (muue-thǔue): “cellphone”
  • ตก (dtòk): “fall or drop “
  • ศูนย์โทรศัพท์ (sǔun thoo-rá-sàp): “phone center”
  • ซ่อม (sâawm): “repair or fix”
  • สภาพ (sà-phâap ): “condition”
  • น่ากลัว (nâa-gluua): “scary”
  • โอกาส (oo-gàat): “chance”
  • If a friend posted something about having broken something by accident, which phrase would you use?

    So, now you know how to describe an accident in Thai. Well done!

    7. Chat about Your Boredom on Social Media in Thai

    Sometimes, we’re just bored with how life goes. And to alleviate the boredom, we write about it on social media. Add some excitement to your posts by addressing your friends and followers in Thai!

    win gets bored at home, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down win’s post.

    เบื่อจัง ไม่มีอะไรทำ (bùuea jang mâi mii à-rai tham)
    “I’m bored. There’s nothing to do.”

    1- เบื่อจัง (bùuea jang )

    First is an expression meaning “I’m bored. .”
    A phrase often used by Thais to express that they are bored. It’s used in spoken language and on social media.

    2- ไม่มีอะไรทำ (mâi mii à-rai tham)

    Then comes the phrase – “There’s nothing to do..”
    Thai people normally kill time by going out to meet friends, chilling at a cafe, and/or going to a movie theatre.

    COMMENTS

    In response, win’s friends leave some comments.

    1- เบื่อด้วย (bùuea dûuai)

    His girlfriend, fáa, uses an expression meaning – “I’m bored too.”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling the same as the poster.

    2- 555 (hâa hâa hâa)

    His girlfriend’s high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “lol”
    Use this expression to show that you think the post is funny. (lol stands for:”laugh out loud” )

    3- ออกไปข้างนอกกัน! (àawk bpai khâang nâawk gan)

    His college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “Let’s hang out!”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling helpful to alleviate the poster’s boredom.

    4- ลองหาหนังสือมาอ่านดูสิ (laawng hăa năng-sǔue maa àan duu sì)

    His high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “Try finding a book to read.”
    This is another solution to the poster’s problem of boredom, so you’ll post this when you feel helpful.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • เบื่อ (bùuea): “get bored”
  • ไม่มีอะไร (mâi mii à-rai): “nothing”
  • ด้วย (dûuai): “too or also”
  • ออกไป (àawk bpai ): “get out “
  • ข้างนอก (khâang nâawk): “outside”
  • หนังสือ (năng-sǔue ): “book”
  • อ่าน (àan): “read”
  • If a friend posted something about being bored, which phrase would you use?

    Still bored? Share another feeling and see if you can start a conversation!

    8. Exhausted? Share It on Social Media in Thai

    Sitting in public transport after work, feeling like chatting online? Well, converse in Thai about your mood, and let your friends join in!

    fáa feels exhausted after a long day at work, posts an image of herself looking tired, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down fáa’s post.

    ทำงานเหนื่อยจัง (tham ngaan nùueai jang)
    “I’m so tired from work.”

    1- ทำงาน (tham ngaan )

    First is an expression meaning “work..”
    Office workers in Bangkok normally work at least eight hours a day. Their lives are very hectic; that’s why they always feel tired from work. Moreover, women in Thailand tend to work rather than staying home and being a housewife.

    2- เหนื่อยจัง (nùueai jang)

    Then comes the phrase – “I’m so tired”.
    A frequently used expression on the Internet that people use to whine and complain about being tired.

    COMMENTS

    In response, fáa’s friends leave some comments.

    1- ดูแลตัวเองด้วยนะคะ (duu-laae dtuua-eeng dûuai ná khá)

    Her neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Please, take care of yourself.”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling warmhearted and caring.

    2- ขอบคุณที่ตั้งใจทำงานนะครับ (khàawp-khun thîi dtâng-jai tham ngaan ná khráp)

    Her supervisor, non, uses an expression meaning – “Thank you for the hard work.”
    Use this phrase when you are feeling thankful.

    3- ไปเที่ยวกัน! (bpai thîiao gan)

    Her college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “Let’s go out and have fun!”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling frivolous and playful. It’s an invitation to go out.

    4- สู้ๆนะ (sûu-sûu ná)

    Her boyfriend, win, uses an expression meaning – “Fighting!”
    Use this expression when you want to tell someone to hold courage and not give up the fight.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • ทำงาน (tham ngaan): “work”
  • เหนื่อย (nùueai): “be tired”
  • ดูแล (duu-laae ): “take care”
  • ตัวเอง (dtuua-eeng): “oneself”
  • ขอบคุณ (khàawp-khun): “thank you”
  • ไปเที่ยว (bpai thîiao ): “hang out, go out or travel”
  • กัน (gan): “let’s”
  • If a friend posted something about being exhausted, which phrase would you use?

    Now you know how to say you’re exhausted in Thai! Well done.

    9. Talking about an Injury in Thai

    So life happens, and you manage to hurt yourself during a soccer game. Very Tweet-worthy! Here’s how to do it in Thai.

    win suffers an injury, posts an image of himself in pain, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down win’s post.

    โอ๊ย จะปวดอะไรนักหนา (óoi jà bpùuat à-rai nák năa)
    “Ouch! Why is it so painful?”

    1- โอ๊ย (óoi )

    First is an expression meaning “Ouch.”
    An interjection to express physical pain.

    2- จะปวดอะไรนักหนา (jà bpùuat à-rai nák năa)

    Then comes the phrase – “Why is it so painful?.”
    In Thailand, the first thing people do when they feel pain is to take a painkiller. These are sold everywhere, even at convenience stores.

    COMMENTS

    In response, win’s friends leave some comments.

    1- เป็นอะไรมั๊ยคะ (bpen à-rai mái khá)

    His neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Are you ok?”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling concern for the poster’s wellbeing.

    2- ปวดอะไร (bpùuat à-rai)

    His high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “What pain?”
    Use this expression when you are trying to inject some humour into the situation.

    3- ปวดใจ? ;P (bpùuat jai)

    His girlfriend’s high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “Love pain? ;P”
    This phrase has the same purpose as the previous one – you’re trying to lighten up the conversation.

    4- เกิดอะไรขึ้นเนี่ย (gòoet à-rai khûen nîia)

    His college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “What’s happening here?”
    This is a question to extract more information from the poster.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • โอ๊ย (óoi ): “Ouch”
  • ปวด (bpùuat ): “feel pain”
  • อะไร (à-rai ): “what”
  • นักหนา (nák năa): “so much”
  • ปวดใจ (bpùuat jai): “love pain”
  • เกิดขึ้น (gòoet khûen ): “happen”
  • If a friend posted something about being injured, which phrase would you use?

    We love to share our fortunes and misfortunes; somehow that makes us feel connected to others.

    10. Starting a Conversation Feeling Disappointed in Thai

    Sometimes things don’t go the way we planned. Share your disappointment about this with your friends!

    fáa feels disappointed about today’s weather, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down fáa’s post.

    เกลียดฝนตก เกลียดรถติด (glìiat fŏn dtòk glìiat rót dtìt)
    “Hate the rain. Hate traffic jams.”

    1- เกลียดฝนตก (glìiat fŏn dtòk )

    First is an expression meaning “Hate the rain. .”
    When it’s not the rainy season or an unusual occurrence, e.g. a typhoon, it seldom rains in Thailand.

    2- เกลียดรถติด (glìiat rót dtìt)

    Then comes the phrase – “Hate traffic jams..”
    When it rains, there’s a high potential for floods and massive traffic jams in big cities. That’s why Thai people always complain about the rain.

    COMMENTS

    In response, fáa’s friends leave some comments.

    1- เซ็งเหมือนกัน (seng mǔuean gan)

    Her college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “This sucks!”
    Use this expression to show you are agreeing with the poster.

    2- มาบริษัท ขับรถระวังๆนะครับ (maa baaw-rí-sàt khàp rót rá-wang rá-wang ná khráp)

    Her supervisor, non, uses an expression meaning – “Please be careful when you drive to the office today.”
    Use this expression to show concern, almost like a parent.

    3- ดูแลตัวเองด้วยนะ (duu laae dtuua eeng dûuai ná)

    Her boyfriend, win, uses an expression meaning – “Please take care of yourself.”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling concern for the poster’s wellbeing.

    4- น่าจะตกไม่นานนะคะ (nâa jà dtòk mâi naan ná khá)

    Her boyfriend’s high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “Maybe it won’t last long.”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling optimistic that there may be relief ahead.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • เกลียด (glìiat ): “hate”
  • ฝนตก (fŏn dtòk ): “rain”
  • รถติด (rót dtìt): “traffic jam”
  • เซ็ง (seng): “get bored”
  • บริษัท (baaw-rí-sàt ): “company or office”
  • ขับรถ (khàp rót): “drive”
  • ระวัง (rá-wang): “be careful”
  • How would you comment in Thai when a friend is disappointed?

    Not all posts need to be about a negative feeling, though!

    11. Talking about Your Relationship Status in Thai

    Don’t just change your relationship status in Settings, talk about it!

    win changes his status to “In a relationship”, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down win’s post.

    ไม่โสดแล้วครับ (mâi sòot láaeo khráp)
    “I’m not single anymore.”

    1- ไม่โสดแล้ว (mâi sòot láaeo)

    First is an expression meaning “I’m not single anymore”.
    When Thai people change their relationship status from single to in-a-relationship, friends will often post to either congratulate or tease them.

    2- ครับ (khráp)

    Then comes the phrase which is a particle for guys.
    This is the ending particle for men to indicate formality. However, on social media, it is normally used in a joking manner, like ‘sir’ or ‘madam’ in English, which people sometimes use to tease others.

    COMMENTS

    In response, win’s friends leave some comments.

    1- ยินดีด้วย! (yin dii dûuai )

    His high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “Congratulations!”
    Use this expression to give congratulations.

    2- ในที่สุดก็เปิดตัวนะ ;P (nai thîi sùt gâaw bpòoet-dtuua ná)

    His college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “Finally, you go public ;P”
    Use this expression to show you are in a fun mood, and want to tease the poster a bit.

    3- ดีใจด้วยนะคะ (dii jai dûuai ná khá)

    His neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Happy for you”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling warmhearted and happy about the event.

    4- แต่งเมื่อไหร่บอกด้วยนะ อิอิ (dtàaeng mûuea rài bàawk dûuai ná ì-ì)

    His girlfriend’s high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “When you get married, please let me know. lol.”
    Use this expression to be funny and also a bit teasing.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • โสด (sòot): “single”
  • ยินดีด้วย (yin dii dûuai ): “congratulations”
  • ในที่สุด (nai thîi sùt): “eventually, finally”
  • เปิดตัว (bpòoet-dtuua): “officially go public, debut, launch”
  • ดีใจ (dii jai): “glad or happy”
  • แต่ง (dtàaeng): “get married (shortened word)”
  • เมื่อไหร่ (mûuea rài ): “when”
  • What would you say in Thai when a friend changes their relationship status?

    Being in a good relationship with someone special is good news – don’t be shy to spread it!

    12. Post about Getting Married in Thai

    Wow, so things got serious, and you’re getting married. Congratulations! Or, your friend is getting married, so talk about this in Thai.

    fáa is getting married today, so she leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down fáa’s post.

    วันที่มีความสุขที่สุดในชีวิต (wan thîi mii khwaam sùk thîi sùt nai chii-wít)
    “Happiest day of my life.”

    1- วันที่มีความสุขที่สุด (wan thîi mii khwaam sùk thîi sùt )

    First is an expression meaning “Happiest day .”
    For Thai women, weddings are very important. Some regard their wedding day as the most special day of their lives. Nowadays, weddings are usually held in big hotels, arranged in Thai-Western style, where the first half of the day, the bride and groom wear traditional Thai clothing, and the second half, the woman wears a white, Western-style bridal gown. Some aspects of Western wedding culture have been adopted in Thailand, such as bouquet tossing and cake-cutting, but many aspects of original Thai culture have been preserved as well.

    2- ในชีวิต (nai chii-wít)

    Then comes the phrase – “of my life.”
    This word is used to emphasize the importance of the wedding.

    COMMENTS

    In response, fáa’s friends leave some comments.

    1- ยินดีด้วยนะครับ (yin dii dûuai ná khráp)

    Her supervisor, non, uses an expression meaning – “Congratulations”
    This is the traditional way of congratulating someone.

    2- วันนี้สวยสุดๆเลยนะจ๊ะ (wan-níi sŭuai sùt sùt looei ná já)

    Her neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Today, you’re very beautiful.”
    Use this expression to show you want to compliment the poster on their appearance.

    3- ดีใจกับฟ้าด้วยน้า (dii jai gàp fáa dûuai náa)

    Her high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “Happy for you.”
    Use this expression to show you’re feeling pleased and happy for the poster.

    4- มีความสุขเหมือนกันครับ (mii khwaam-sùk mǔuean-gan khráp)

    Her husband, win, uses an expression meaning – “I’m also very happy.”
    Use this expression to share that you are sharing the poster’s feelings.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • วัน (wan): “day”
  • ชีวิต (chii-wít): “life”
  • ความสุข (khwaam sùk ): “happiness”
  • ที่สุด (thîi sùt): “the most”
  • สวย (sŭuai): “pretty, beautiful”
  • สุดๆ (sùt sùt): “very, extremely”
  • เหมือนกัน (mǔuean-gan): “same/too/also”
  • How would you respond in Thai to a friend’s post about getting married?

    For the next topic, fast forward about a year into the future after the marriage…

    13. Announcing Big News in Thai

    Wow, huge stuff is happening in your life! Announce it in Thai.

    win finds out he and his wife are going to have a baby, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down win’s post.

    ครอบครัวเราจะมีสมาชิกใหม่เพิ่มแล้วนะ (khrâawp-khruua rao jà mii sà-maa-chík mài phôoem láaeo ná)
    “Our family will have a new member soon.”

    1- ครอบครัวเรา (khrâawp-khruua rao)

    First is an expression meaning “Our family .”
    Typical Thai families are large, with as many as 6 to 10 members. However, the new generation of Thais prefer to live on their own and often have smaller families.

    2- จะมีสมาชิกใหม่เพิ่มแล้วนะ (jà mii sà-maa-chík mài phôoem láaeo ná)

    Then comes the phrase – “will have a new member soon..”
    Having a new member, in this case a baby, is always a good event. Family and friends will normally visit the couple and new-born baby at the hospital, bringing gifts.

    COMMENTS

    In response, win’s friends leave some comments.

    1- จะมีน้องแล้วหรอ (jà mii náawng láaeo rǎaw)

    His high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “Are you having a baby?”
    This is a rhetorical question to make conversation.

    2- เห้ย ดีใจด้วย (hôoei dii-jai dûuai)

    His college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “OMG! Congrats!”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling happy and surprised about the good news at the same time.

    3- มีอะไรให้ช่วยบอกได้นะคะ (mii à-rai hâi chûuai bàawk dâi ná khá)

    His neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “If you need anything, please let me know.”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling supportive and want to help, if needed.

    4- อยากเล่นกับน้องแล้ว (yàak lêen gàp náawng láaeo)

    His nephew, ai-dtim, uses an expression meaning – “I wanna play with your baby!”
    Use this expression to be humorous and show your caring at the same time.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • ครอบครัว (khrâawp-khruua): “family”
  • สมาชิก ( sà-maa-chík): “members”
  • ใหม่ (mài): “new”
  • เพิ่ม (phôoem): “more, additional”
  • ช่วย (chûuai): “help”
  • เล่น (lêen): “play”
  • น้อง (náawng): “little brother or sister (in this case, it refers to the baby)”
  • Which phrase would you choose when a friend announces their pregnancy on social media?

    So, talking about a pregnancy will get you a lot of traction on social media. But wait till you see the responses to babies!

    14. Posting Thai Comments about Your Baby

    Your bundle of joy is here, and you cannot keep quiet about it! Share your thoughts in Thai.

    fáa plays with her baby, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down fáa’s post.

    ลูกแม่น่ารักที่สุด (lûuk mâae nâa-rák thîi-sùt)
    “My baby is the cutest.”

    1- ลูกแม่ (lûuk mâae )

    First is an expression meaning “My baby.”
    Thai people love to softly pinch a baby’s cheeks if they think the baby is cute. However, if you aren’t close with the parents, you should ask them first if it is okay to touch their child.

    2- น่ารักที่สุด (nâa-rák thîi-sùt)

    Then comes the phrase – ” is the cutest..”
    In Thailand, there’s an old belief that one should not call a new-born baby ‘cute’, because a ghost will come and steal the baby away. So some people prefer to use the word ‘ugly’ or ‘malicious’ instead of the word ‘cute’ to prevent the ghost from coming after their babies. However, this belief is often associated with older generations, and is becoming more and more rare.

    COMMENTS

    In response, fáa’s friends leave some comments.

    1- น่ารักมากเลยค่ะ (nâa-rák mâak looei khâ)

    Her neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “So cute.”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling warmhearted and appreciative of the young one.

    2- อยากหยิกแก้ม (yàak yìk gâaem)

    Her high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “Wanna pinch his/her cheek.”
    Use this expression to show your eagerness to meet the new baby.

    3- อยากไปเล่นด้วย (yàak bpai lêen dûuai)

    Her nephew, ai-dtim, uses an expression meaning – “I want to play with him/her.”
    Use this expression to show you feel positive about and are keen to play with the baby.

    4- น้องน่าชังมากเลยครับ (náawng nâa chang mâak looei khráp)

    Her supervisor, non, uses an expression meaning – “He/she is malicious. (which means cute in this context)”
    Use this expression to be old fashioned.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • ลูก (lûuk): “baby”
  • แม่ (mâae): “mom”
  • น่ารัก (nâa-rák): “cute”
  • หยิก (yìk): “pinch”
  • แก้ม (gâaem): “cheek”
  • อยาก (yàak): “want”
  • น่าชัง (nâa chang): “malicious”
  • If your friend is the mother or father, which phrase would you use on social media?

    Congratulations, you know the basics of chatting about a baby in Thai! But we’re not done with families yet…

    15. Thai Comments about a Family Reunion

    Family reunions – some you love, some you hate. Share about it on your feed.

    win goes to a family gathering, posts an image of the group, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down win’s post.

    นานๆจะพร้อมหน้าพร้อมตากัน (naan-naan jà phráawm nâa phráawm dtaa gan)
    “Been a while since everyone has been all together.”

    1- นานๆจะ (naan-naan jà )

    First is an expression meaning “Been a while that.”
    Since the new generation of Thai families don’t live with their parents anymore, for some families, it’s rare that they have a big gathering. They may only come together for very special events.

    2- พร้อมหน้าพร้อมตากัน (phráawm nâa phráawm dtaa gan)

    Then comes the phrase – “everyone has been all together.”
    When there’s a family gathering, it’s normally held in the house of the oldest people in the family, usually the grandparents. Everyone helps by either bringing food or cooking the meal together.

    COMMENTS

    In response, win’s friends leave some comments.

    1- ฝากสวัสดีคุณพ่อ คุณแม่ ด้วยนะ (fàak sà-wàt-dii khun phâaw khun mâae dûuai ná)

    His high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “Please send my regards to your parents.”
    Use this expression to send greetings to the poster’s parents.

    2- ครอบครัวนายใหญ่มาก (khrâawp-khruua naai yài mâak)

    His college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “You have a big fam.”
    Use this observation to partake in the conversation if the poster’s family is big.

    3- ครอบครัวน่ารักมากเลยค่ะ (khrâawp-khruua nâa-rák mâak looei khâ)

    His neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Your family is very cute.”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling warmhearted.

    4- ไอติมหน้าตาตลกอ่ะ รูปนี้ (ai-dtim nâa-dtaa dtà-lòk à rûup níi)

    His nephew, ai-dtim, uses an expression meaning – “I look so weird in this pic.”
    Use this expression to comment on your own appearance.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • พร้อมหน้าพร้อมตา (phráawm nâa phráawm dtaa): “all present or all together”
  • สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dii): “hello, hi, regard”
  • คุณพ่อ (khun phâaw): “father”
  • คุุณแม่ (khun mâae): “mother”
  • ใหญ่ (yài): “big”
  • น่ารัก (nâa-rák): “cute”
  • ตลก (dtà-lòk): “funny”
  • Which phrase is your favorite to comment on a friend’s photo about a family reunion?

    16. Post about Your Travel Plans in Thai

    So, the family are going on holiday. Do you know how to post and leave comments in Thai about being at the airport, waiting for a flight?

    fáa waits at the airport for her flight, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down fáa’s post.

    รอบินอีก 1 ชม. (raaw bin ìik nùeng chûua-moong)
    ” Waiting to fly off in 1 hour.”

    1- รอบิน (raaw bin )

    First is an expression meaning “Waiting to fly off.”
    If you’re flying out of Bangkok, there are two international airports you can use – Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don mueang Airport.

    2- อีก 1 ชม. (ìik nùeng chûua-moong)

    Then comes the phrase – ” in 1 hour”.
    Thai people love to shop in the duty-free stores while they wait for their flight.

    COMMENTS

    In response, fáa’s friends leave some comments.

    1- ไปไหนหรอ (bpai năi rǎaw)

    Her college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “Where are you going?”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling frivolous.

    2- เดินทางดีๆนะคะ (dooen thaang dii dii ná khá)

    Her neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Have a safe flight”.
    Use this expression to show you are feeling warmhearted.

    3- อย่าลืมของฝากนะ (yàa luuem khǎawng-fàak ná)

    Her nephew, ai-dtim, uses an expression meaning – “Don’t forget my souvenir.”
    Use this phrase to tease the poster a bit by requesting a gift.

    4- ขอไปด้วย 555 (khǎaw bpai dûuai hâa hâa hâa)

    Her high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “Can I go with you? lol”
    Use this expression to be humorous.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • รอ (raaw): “wait”
  • บิน (bin ): “fly or fly off”
  • ชม. (chûua-moong): “hr (abbreviation of hour)”
  • เดินทาง (dooen thaang): “travel”
  • ลืม (luuem): “forget”
  • ของฝาก (khǎawng-fàak): “souvenir”
  • ไป (bpai): “go”
  • Choose and memorize your best airport phrase in Thai!

    Hopefully the rest of the trip is better!

    17. Posting about an Interesting Find in Thai

    So maybe you’re strolling around at your local market, and find something interesting. Here are some handy Thai phrases!

    win finds an unusual item at a local market, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down win’s post.

    เจอของหน้าตาแปลกๆเข้าแล้ว (jooe khǎawng nâa-dtaa bplàaek bplàaek khâo láaeo)

    “Found exotic stuff.”

    1- เจอ…เข้าแล้ว (jooe…khâo láaeo)

    First is an expression meaning “found”.
    We use this verb to emphasize the thing we coincidentally found.

    2- ของหน้าตาแปลกๆ (khǎawng nâa-dtaa bplàaek bplàaek )

    Then comes the phrase – “exotic stuff!”
    Thai people love taking photos. When they find or see exotic things, they normally take photos and post them on social media.

    COMMENTS

    In response, win’s friends leave some comments.

    1- มันคืออะไรอะ (man khuue à-rai à)

    His nephew, ai-dtim, uses an expression meaning – “What is it?”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling cynical.

    2- ดูเหมือนของเก่าที่มีราคาเลยครับ (duu mǔuean khǎawng gào thîi mii raa-khaa looei khráp)

    His supervisor, non, uses an expression meaning – “Looks like a valuable antique”.
    Use this expression to share your opinion.

    3- ชอบของแปลกหรอ 555 (châawp khǎawng bplàaek rǎaw hâa hâa hâa)

    His wife’s high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “So you like weird stuff? lol”
    Use this expression to be funny and teasing.

    4- แปลกแต่ดูเก๋ดีนะ (bplàaek dtàae duu gěe dii ná)

    His high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “Exotic, but looks so cool.”
    Use this expression to share your opinion.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • เจอ (jooe): “found”
  • ของ (khǎawng): “thing, stuff”
  • หน้าตา (nâa dtaa): “appearance”
  • แปลก (bplàaek): “strange, weird, exotic”
  • ของเก่า (khǎawng gào): “antique”
  • มีราคา (mii raa-khaa): “valuable, marketable”
  • เก๋ (gěe): “chic, cool”
  • Which phrase would you use to comment on a friend’s interesting find?

    Perhaps you will even learn the identity of your find! Or perhaps you’re on holiday, and visiting interesting places…

    18. Post about a Sightseeing Trip in Thai

    Let your friends know what you’re up to in Thai, especially when visiting a remarkable place! Don’t forget the photo.

    fáa visits a famous landmark, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down fáa’s post.

    มาเปิดหู เปิดตา ในที่ใหม่ๆ (maa bpòoet hǔu bpòoet dtaa nai thîi mài mài)
    “Having an eye-opening experience in a new place.”

    1- มาเปิดหู เปิดตา (maa bpòoet hǔu bpòoet dtaa )

    First is an expression meaning “Having an eye-opening experience .”
    This is a proverb, literally meaning ‘open eyes, open ears’. It’s similar to ‘eye-opening’ in English.

    2- ในที่ใหม่ๆ (nai thîi mài mài)

    Then comes the phrase – “in a new place..”
    Thai people love to take vacations and go abroad or travel to somewhere far away in order to gain new eye-opening experiences.

    COMMENTS

    In response, fáa’s friends leave some comments.

    1- โห ดูสวยมาก (hŏo duu sŭuai mâak)

    Her husband’s high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “Wow, it looks so beautiful.”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling appreciative of the photo the poster has shared.

    2- ที่นี่ที่ไหนอ่ะ (thîi-nîi thîi-năi à)

    Her college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “Where is this?”
    Use this expression if you want more information about a location.

    3- ผมเคยไปมาเมื่อปีที่แล้ว (phŏm khooei bpai maa mûuea bpii thîi láaeo)

    Her supervisor, non, uses an expression meaning – “I was there last year.”
    Use this expression to share a personal detail.

    4- อยากไปมั่งเลยค่ะ (yàak bpai mâng looei khâ)

    Her neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “I really want to go there.”
    Use this expression to share your wanting to go somewhere.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • เปิดหู เปิดตา (bpòoet hǔu bpòoet dtaa): “eye-opening”
  • ที่ (thîi): “place”
  • ใหม่ๆ (mài mài): “new”
  • ที่นี่ (thîi-nîi): “here”
  • ที่ไหน (thîi-năi): “where”
  • เคย (khooei ): “ever, used to”
  • ปีที่แล้ว (bpii thîi láaeo): “last year”
  • Which phrase would you prefer when a friend posts about a famous landmark?

    Share your special places with the world. Or simply post about your relaxing experiences.

    19. Post about Relaxing Somewhere in Thai

    So you’re doing nothing yet you enjoy that too? Tell your social media friends about it in Thai!

    win relaxes at a beautiful place, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down win’s post.

    นอนพักผ่อนบนชายหาด (naawn phák-phàawn bon chaai-hàat)
    “Relaxing on the beach.”

    1- นอนพักผ่อน (naawn phák-phàawn )

    First is an expression meaning “Relaxing.”
    Thai people love taking vacations. When there’s a long vacation, people normally go on a trip, either abroad or to another province of Thailand.

    2- บนชายหาด (bon chaai-hàat)

    Then comes the phrase – “on the beach..”
    The beach is one of the most popular places to go during a long vacation. There are a lot of beautiful beaches in Thailand, such as Pattaya and Huahin.

    COMMENTS

    In response, win’s friends leave some comments.

    1- ชิวมากเลยนะเพื่อน (chiu mâak looei ná phûuean)

    His college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “You look so chillax.”
    Use this expression when you’re in a playful mood.

    2- ดูเงียบสงบมากเลย (duu ngîiap sà-ngòp mâak looei)

    His neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “It looks so calm and peaceful.”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling positive about the poster’s photo.

    3- ทริปในฝันเลยนะเนี่ย (thríp nai făn looei ná nîia)

    His high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “This is my dream trip.”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling very appreciative of their trip.

    4- กลับมาเร็วๆ (glàp maa reo reo)

    His nephew, ai-dtim, uses an expression meaning – “Please come back soon. ”
    Use this expression to show you are missing the poster and want them to return to you soon.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • นอน (naawn): “sleep, take a nap”
  • พักผ่อน (phák-phàawn): “relax, rest”
  • ชายหาด (chaai-hàat): “beach”
  • ชิว (chiu): “chillax, look so chill”
  • เงียบ (ngîiap): “quiet”
  • สงบ (sà-ngòp): “calm, peaceful”
  • ฝัน (făn): “dream”
  • Which phrase would you use to comment on a friend’s feed?

    The break was great, but now it’s time to return home.

    20. What to Say in Thai When You’re Home Again

    And you’re back! What will you share with friends and followers?

    fáa returns home after a vacation, posts an image of the family at home, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down fáa’s post.

    กลับมาแล้วจ้า (glàp maa láaeo jâa)
    “Back in town.”

    1- กลับมาแล้ว (glàp maa láaeo)

    First is an expression meaning “Back in town..”
    Thai people usually bring souvenirs back after a trip to give to their co-workers, friends and family.

    2- จ้า (jâa)

    Then comes the phrase – “(particle).”
    The most common souvenirs are food and candies, which can easily be shared with many people.

    COMMENTS

    In response, fáa’s friends leave some comments.

    1- ไปเที่ยวสนุกมั๊ย (bpai thîiao sà-nùk mái)

    Her high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “Did you have fun?”
    Use this expression to show your interest in the poster’s holiday.

    2- พักผ่อนเยอะๆค่ะ (phák-phàawn yóe yóe khâ)

    Her neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Please get a good rest.”
    Use this expression to show concern that the poster might be tired and need rest.

    3- ได้ซื้อของฝากมาให้รึเปล่า (dâai súue khǎawng-fàak maa hâi rúe bplàao)

    Her nephew, ai-dtim, uses an expression meaning – “Have you brought any souvenirs for me?”
    Use this expression when you’re in a humorous, playful mood.

    4- ยินดีต้อนรับกลับบ้านจ้า (yin-dii dtâawn-ráp glàp bâan jâa)

    Her husband’s high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “Welcome back!”
    This is the traditional salutation when someone returns from somewhere.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • กลับมา (glàp maa): “come back”
  • เที่ยว (thîiao): “travel, go on a trip”
  • สนุก (sà-nùk): “enjoy”
  • พักผ่อน (phák-phàawn): “relax, rest”
  • ซื้อ (súue): “buy”
  • ยินดีต้อนรับ (yin-dii dtâawn-ráp): “welcome”
  • บ้าน (bâan): “home”
  • How would you welcome a friend back from a trip?

    What do you post on social media during a public commemoration day such as Songrkan Day?

    21. It’s Time to Celebrate in Thai

    It’s a public holiday too, and you wish to post something about it on social media. What would you say?

    win wants to celebrate Songkran Day somewhere special, so he leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down win’s post.

    ไปเล่นน้ำที่ไหนดีในวันสงกรานต์ (bpai lêen nám thîi-năi dii nai wan sŏng-graan)
    “Where should I go on Songkran Day?”

    1- ไปเล่นน้ำที่ไหนดี (bpai lêen nám thîi-năi dii)

    First is an expression meaning “Where should I go (to splash water).”
    Songkran is known in English as the water-splashing festival. During this festival, people splash water at each other all over Thailand. Hence, if you don’t want to get wet, it’s better to stay at home. There are a few famous places to enjoy this festival. One of them is Khao-saan road, where Thais and foreigners enjoy splashing water on each other throughout the day and night.

    2- ในวันสงกรานต์ (nai wan sŏng-graan)

    Then comes the phrase – “on (the) Songkran Day?.”
    Songkran is the Thai New Year, which lasts for three days between 13-15 of April. It’s a national holiday, so there is no school or work during that time.

    COMMENTS

    In response, win’s friends leave some comments.

    1- ไปข้าวสารกันเถอะ (bpai khâao-săan gan thòe)

    His college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “Let’s go to Khao San Road.”
    Use this expression to make a suggestion for a destination.

    2- ร้อนมากอ่ะวันนี้ (ráawn mâak à wan níi)

    His wife’s high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “Today’s burning hot.”
    Use this expression to comment on the weather.

    3- ถ้าออกไปข้างนอกก็ระวังตัวด้วยนะคะ (thâa àawk bpai khâang-nâawk gâaw rá-wang dtuua dûuai ná khá)

    His neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “If you’re going out, please take care.”
    Use this expression to show your concern for the poster’s wellbeing.

    4- ไปด้วย! (bpai dûuai)

    His nephew, ai-dtim, uses an expression meaning – “I wanna go too!”
    Use this expression if you want to join the poster on the outing.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • เล่น (lêen): “play”
  • น้ำ (nám): “water”
  • ร้อน (ráawn): “hot”
  • มาก (mâak): “very”
  • ออกไป (àawk bpai): “go out”
  • ข้างนอก (khâang-nâawk): “outside”
  • ระวังตัว (rá-wang dtuua): “be careful”
  • If a friend posted something about a holiday, which phrase would you use?

    Thai New Year, or Songkran Day, and other public holidays days are not the only special ones to remember!

    22. Posting about a Birthday on Social Media in Thai

    Your friend or you are celebrating your birthday in an unexpected way. Be sure to share this on social media!

    fáa goes to her birthday party, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down fáa’s post.

    แก่ขึ้นอีกปี (gàae khûen ìik bpii)
    “A year older.”

    1- แก่ขึ้น (gàae khûen )

    First is an expression meaning “older..”
    Thai people love to celebrate their birthday with their friends and family. Some organize a small birthday party, while others go to the temple and make contributions.

    2- อีกปี (ìik bpii)

    Then comes the phrase – “A year .”
    In Thailand, it’s traditional to go to your local temple on your birthday to make a contribution and get blessed by a monk. Some people donate items and money to NGOs instead, as a way to give back and be blessed for the coming year.

    COMMENTS

    In response, fáa’s friends leave some comments.

    1- แฮปปี้เบิร์ดเดย์จ้า (hâep-bpîi-bóoet-dee jâa)

    Her husband’s high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “Happy birthday (in English).”
    This is the traditional birthday wish as it would be phrased in English.

    2- สุขสันต์วันเกิดครับ (sùk-săn wan gòoet khráp)

    Her husband, win, uses an expression meaning – “Wish you a happy birthday (in Thai).”
    This is the traditional birthday phrased in Thai.

    3- ขอให้มีความสุขนะจ๊ะ (khǎaw hâi mii khwaam-sùk ná já)

    Her neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Wish you happiness.”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling warmhearted.

    4- ขอให้สวยวันสวยคืน 555 (khǎaw hâi sŭuai wan sŭuai khuuen hâa hâa hâa)

    Her high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “Wish you get prettier as time goes by. lol”
    Use this expression to wish the poster beauty with increasing age.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • แก่ขึ้น (gàae khûen): “getting older”
  • อีก (ìik): “another”
  • ปี (bpii): “year”
  • สุขสันต์วันเกิด (sùk-săn wan gòoet): “Happy birthday”
  • วันเกิด (wan gòoet): “birthday”
  • ขอให้ (khǎaw hâi): “wish or hope”
  • สวยวัน สวยคืน (sŭuai wan sŭuai khuuen): “getting prettier (proverb)”
  • If a friend posted something about birthday greetings, which phrase would you use?

    23. Talking about New Year on Social Media in Thai

    Impress your friends with your Thai New Year’s wishes this year. Learn the phrases easily!

    win celebrates the New Year, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down win’s post.

    สุขสันต์วันปีใหม่ (sùk-săn wan bpii-mài)
    “Happy New Year.”

    1- สุขสันต์ (sùk-săn )

    First is an expression meaning “Happy .”
    Activities that people normally do on New Year include visiting family and friends and exchanging gifts and New Year’s cards. It’s believed to be a blissful day, because you can forget all of the bad things that happened over the past year and begin again in the new one!

    2- วันปีใหม่ (wan bpii-mài)

    Then comes the phrase – “New Year..”
    Thai people celebrate the New Year on the first of January, like the rest of the world. There is no school or work on New Year, but shops typically stay open.

    COMMENTS

    In response, win’s friends leave some comments.

    1- ขอให้เป็นอีกปีที่ดีของเรานะ (khǎaw hâi bpen ìik bpii thîi dii khǎawng rao ná)

    His wife, fáa, uses an expression meaning – “Wish it’s another good year for us.”
    Use this expression to wish someone a positive new year.

    2- ขอให้มีความสุขตลอดปีนะครับ (khǎaw hâi mii khwaam-sùk dtà-làawt bpii ná khráp)

    His supervisor, non, uses an expression meaning – “Wish you happiness throughout the year.”
    This is another way to wish someone well for the new year.

    3- มีของขวัญมาให้ไอติมมั๊ย (mii khǎawng-khwăn maa hâi ai-dtim mái)

    His nephew, ai-dtim, uses an expression meaning – “Do you have any presents for me?”
    Use this expression if you are feeling humorous and a bit teasing.

    4- ขอให้เป็นอีกปีที่ดีสำหรับวินนะ (khǎaw hâi bpen ìik bpii thîi dii săm-ràp win ná)

    His high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “Wish you another wonderful year.”
    Yet another way to wish someone a good new year.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • สุขสันต์วันปีใหม่ (sùk-săn wan bpii-mài): “happy new year”
  • สุขสันต์ (sùk-săn): “happy”
  • วันปีใหม่ (wan bpii-mài): “New year”
  • ตลอด (dtà-làawt): “throughout”
  • ความสุข (khwaam-sùk): “happiness”
  • ของขวัญ (khǎawng-khwăn): “present or gift”
  • สำหรับ (săm-ràp): “for”
  • Which is your favorite phrase to post on social media during New Year?

    But before New Year’s Day comes another important day…

    24. What to Post on Christmas Day in Thai

    What will you say in Thai about Christmas?

    fáa celebrates Christmas with her family, posts an image of the group, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down fáa’s post.

    สุขสันต์วันคริสต์มาสนะทุกคน (sùk-săn wan khrít-mâat ná thúk khon)
    “Merry X’mas everyone.”

    1- สุขสันต์วันคริสต์มาสนะ (sùk-săn wan khrít-mâat ná)

    First is an expression meaning “Merry X’mas .”
    Christmas is indeed an important day for Thai Christians. Even though Buddhism is Thailand’s state religion, you will still see Christmas decorations and Christmas trees, mainly in shopping malls and hotels. These are prepared both as a commercial exercise and as part of the Thai spirit of fun.

    2- ทุกคน (thúk khon)

    Then comes the phrase – “everyone..”
    Thai people celebrate Christmas by having a Christmas party with their friends and co-workers. Activities include things like gift raffles and gift exchanges. However, note that it is not a national holiday, so people still have to go to school and work during the day.

    COMMENTS

    In response, fáa’s friends leave some comments.

    1- วันคริสต์มาส แต่ยังทำงานอยู่เลย (wan khrít-mâat dtàae yang tham ngaan yùu looei)

    Her husband, win, uses an expression meaning – “It’s Christmas day, but I’m still at work.”
    Use this expression if you have to work on Christmas day.

    2- แต่ยังร้อนอยู่เลย (dtàae yang ráawn yùu looei)

    Her high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “But it’s still freaking hot.”
    Use this expression to be funny.

    3- ไปเที่ยวกันมั๊ย คืนนี้ (bpai thîiao gan mái khuuen níi)

    Her college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “Wanna hang out tonight?”
    This is an invitation to get together in the evening.

    4- เมอร์รี่ คริสมาส นะจ๊ะ (mooe-rîi khrít-mâat ná já)

    Her neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Merry Christmas.”
    This is the traditional Christmas wish.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • สุขสันต์วันคริสต์มาส (sùk-săn wan khrít-mâat): “Merry Christmas”
  • วันคริสต์มาส (wan khrít-mâat): “Christmas day”
  • ทุกคน (thúk khon): “everybody”
  • ทำงาน (tham-ngaan): “work”
  • ยัง (yang): “still”
  • ร้อน (ráawn): “hot”
  • คืนนี้ (khuuen-níi): “tonight”
  • If a friend posted something about Christmas greetings, which phrase would you use?

    So, the festive season is over! Yet, there will always be other days, besides a birthday, to wish someone well.

    25. Post about Your Anniversary in Thai

    Some things deserve to be celebrated, like wedding anniversaries. Learn which Thai phrases are meaningful and best suited for this purpose!

    win celebrates his wedding anniversary with his wife, posts an image of them together, and leaves this comment:

    POST

    Let’s break down win’s post.

    ครบรอบวันแต่งงาน 1 ปี (khróp-râawp wan dtàaeng-ngaan nùeng bpii)
    “1 year wedding anniversary.”

    1- ครบรอบวันแต่งงาน (khróp-râawp wan dtàaeng-ngaan)

    First is an expression meaning “wedding anniversary.”
    Recently, Thai people have begun to place more importance on their wedding anniversaries. We often see people post the celebration on social media.

    2- 1 ปี ( nùeng bpii)

    Then comes the phrase – “1 year.”
    On this day, men normally take their wives out to have a nice dinner or give them a special present.

    COMMENTS

    In response, win’s friends leave some comments.

    1- ยินดีด้วยนะคะ (yin dii dûuai ná khá)

    His neighbor, phraae, uses an expression meaning – “Congratulations!”
    This is the traditional way to offer congratulations on a special day.

    2- 1 ปีแล้วหรอเนี่ย (nùeng bpii láaeo rǎaw nîia)

    His college friend, em, uses an expression meaning – “Is it 1 year already?”
    Use this expression to show you are feeling frivolous and want to joke around a bit.

    3- ขอให้รักกันไปนานๆนะ (khǎaw hâi rák gan bpai naan naan ná)

    His high school friend, maai, uses an expression meaning – “Wishing (that) you love each other for a long time.”
    Use this phrase if you want to offer the couple a positive wish for the future of their marriage.

    4- ไปฉลองกันที่ไหนเอ่ย (bpai chà-lǎawng gan thîi năi òoei)

    His wife’s high school friend, nám phŏn, uses an expression meaning – “Where are you going to celebrate?”
    Use this question if you’d like more information about the couple’s plans for the event.

    VOCABULARY

    Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

  • ครบรอบ (khróp râawp): “anniversary”
  • วันแต่งงาน (wan dtàaeng-ngaan): “wedding day”
  • ปี (bpii): “year”
  • รัก (rák): “love”
  • นานๆ (naan naan): “long time”
  • ฉลอง (chà-lǎawng): “celebrate”
  • ที่ไหน (thîi-năi): “where”
  • If a friend posted something about Anniversary greetings, which phrase would you use?

    Conclusion

    Learning to speak a new language will always be easier once you know key phrases that everybody uses. These would include commonly used expressions for congratulations and best wishes, etc.

    Master these in fun ways with Learn Thai! We offer a variety of tools to individualize your learning experience, including using cell phone apps, audiobooks, iBooks and many more. Never wonder again what to say on social media!

    Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Thai

    Best Guide on How to Say Sorry in the Thai Language

    When you do something wrong, you apologize. When you accidentally hurt someone, you say sorry. When you want to get a waitress’ attention, you say “Excuse me.” When you see someone who’s feeling sad because of a bad situation they face, you say you’re sorry for them.

    “Sorry” is one of the basic words you use in daily life and is one of the first words you learn when you start learning any language. And this article will teach you how to say sorry in Thai (because to learn sorry when living in Thailand would be tough!).

    How do I say sorry in Thai? Well, this topic is easy. In Thai, when you want to show your empathy, give your condolences, or show that you feel bad or sorry for what you did, there are a few words Thai people use which will be explained below. Also, to help you say “I’m sorry” in Thai like a native, ThaiPod101.com will also show you various phrases you can use in numerous situations you may face, including “sorry” from Thai to English. Start with a bonus, and download your FREE cheat sheet – How to Improve Your Thai Skills! (Logged-In Member Only)

    1. The Most Important Apologizing Word
    2. Phrases for Sorry in Thai
    3. Phrases for Condolences in Thai
    4. Sentences to Use with “Sorry”
    5. Reply Phrases for When Someone Says Sorry to You
    6. Tips on How to Say Sorry in Thai
    7. Conclusion

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    1. The Most Important Apologizing Word

    3 Ways to Say Sorry

    As mentioned above, there are only a few words used for apologies in Thai. First, Thaipod101.com will teach you the words you need to know in order to say “I’m sorry” in Thai. ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot) means “sorry,” “apology,” and “excuse me” in Thai. ขออภัย (khǎaw à-phai) has similar meanings, which are “sorry” and “apology” in Thai.

    The way to use these two words is slightly different; we’ll explain this below. Another word you should know is เสียใจ (sǐia-jai) which is used to show your condolences in Thai.

    1- How Do You Say Sorry in Thai?

    Now, for the most important part of this lesson: How to say “I am sorry” in Thai. Here, we’ll also show you some examples of “sorry” in Thai written in English.

    For spoken language, the main word used to say sorry, apology, or excuse me in Thai is as follows:

    ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot) — “Sorry” in Thai translates to this word, and this is the main word for “sorry” in Thailand. You can use this word in every situation, both formal and informal. Make sure you remember this word well.

    โทดที (thôot thii) — This is a slang word for “sorry” in Thai. It’s an informal word so you should use this with friends or other people you’re close with. Don’t use this in business situations since it’s too casual.

    ซอรี่ (saaw-rîi) — This is another slang word for “sorry” in Thai. As you can guess, this is an informal way to say sorry, so only use this word with friends or other people you’re close with. Actually, this word is “sorry” in Thai pronunciation. To put it simply, Thai people just say sorry in English when using this word.

    Examples

    • When you accidentally step on someone’s foot, you can say ขอโทษค่ะ (khǎaw-thôot khâ) meaning “sorry” to apologize.
    • When you want to go to another part of the room but your group of friends is blocking your way, you can tell them โทดที ขอเดินหน่อย (thôot thii khǎaw dooen nàauy) which means, “Excuse me, I want to get through.”
    • When your sister finds out that you ate her chocolate cake, you can say ซอรี่ (saaw-rîi) meaning “sorry” to her.

    2- How Do You Write “Sorry” in Thai?

    For written language, these are the words and phrase Thai people use:

    ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot) — As mentioned before, this is the main word for “sorry.” Thus, it’s used in written language as well. It can be used for both formal and informal documents.

    ขออภัย (khǎaw à-phai) — The difference between ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot) and ขออภัย (khǎaw à-phai) is that ขออภัย (khǎaw à-phai) is mainly used in written language and rarely used in spoken language. It’s a formal language for apologies in Thailand. Another phrase that’s used is ขออภัยเป็นอย่างสูง (khǎaw à-phai bpen yàang sǔung) which means “very sorry” in Thai written language.

    ขอโทด (khǎaw-thôot) — This is a slang word in written language. The reason Thai people use this a lot is that it’s easier to type. The pronunciation of ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot) and ขอโทด (khǎaw-thôot) is the same.

    โทดที (thôot thii) — This is a slang word for both written and spoken language, and gives a more informal feeling than ขอโทด (khǎaw-thôot) does.

    Example

    • You sent your report to your boss later than the deadline, so in the email you write ขอโทษครับ (khǎaw-thôot khráp) to apologize for your lateness.
    • The toilet in the department store is now being fixed. To ask customers to use the toilet on the third floor instead and apologize for inconvenience, they put a label that reads ขออภัยในความไม่สะดวก กรุณาไปใช้ห้องน้ำที่ชั้น 3 แทน (khǎaw à-phai nai kwaam mâi sà-dùuak gà-rú-naa bpai chái hâawng nám thîi chán săam thaaen).
    • You forgot to buy the book your friend asked you to buy for them today, so you text her that you’re sorry you forgot and that you’ll buy it for her tomorrow instead: โทดที เราลืมซื้อหนังสือให้ จะซื้อให้พรุ่งนี้แทนนะ (thôot thii rao luuem súue năng-sǔue hâi · jà súue hâi phrûng-níi thaaen ná). In this case, you can use ขอโทด (khǎaw-thôot) instead of โทดที (thôot thii) as well.

    3- Body Language

    Apart from spoken and written language, you should also know how Thai people act when they want to convey that they’re sorry. Here’s some body language to use when you want to convey “I’m sorry” in Thailand.

    ไหว้ (wâi) — In addition to greeting, Thai people also ไหว้ (wâi) when saying ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot) to older people. To ไหว้ (wâi), you put your hands together at chest level and bend down your head until the tip of your nose touches your thumb.

    Sincere and polite tone of voice — When saying sorry, Thai people use a sincere and polite tone of voice. If your tone of voice is disrespectful or too annoying, it indicates that you’re not really sorry for what you did.

    Now that you essentially understand how to say sorry in Thai language, let’s delve a little deeper and learn some useful phrases.

    2. Phrases for Sorry in Thai

    Say Sorry

    In Thai, you can use ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot) in every situation. However, sometimes you may want to be more specific to the situation. In that case, you should know how to say sorry to a Thai girl, how to say “Sorry I am late” in Thai, and how to say “Excuse me” in Thai language. So ThaiPod101.com presents you with sorry quotes in Thai that you can use in various situations.

    1- ขอโทษมาก ๆ

    • Thai pronunciation: khǎaw-thôot mâak mâak
    • Meaning: “I’m very sorry.”
    • Example: ขอโทษมาก ๆ ที่ทำหนังสือเธอเปียก.
      • Khǎaw-thôot mâak mâak thîi tham năng-sǔue thooe bpìiak.
      • “I’m very sorry for wetting your book.”

    2- ขอโทษจริง ๆ

    • Thai pronunciation: khǎaw-thôot jing-jing
    • Meaning: “I’m really sorry.”
    • Example: ขอโทษจริง ๆ ที่ลืมนัดของเรา.
      • Khǎaw-thôot jing jing thîi luuem nát khǎawng rao.
      • “I’m really sorry I forgot our appointment.”

    3- ขอโทษ เป็นอะไรมั๊ย / ขอโทษ เป็นอะไรรึเปล่า

    • Thai pronunciation: khǎaw-thôot bpen à-rai mái / khǎaw-thôot bpen à-rai rúe bplào
    • Meaning: “I’m sorry. Are you okay?”
    • Example: (You accidentally hit your friend’s chin.)
      • ขอโทษ เป็นอะไรมั๊ย.
      • khǎaw-thôot bpen à-rai mái.
      • “I’m sorry. Are you okay?”

    4- ขอโทษแทน…ด้วย

    • Thai pronunciation: khǎaw-thôot thaaen … dûuai
    • Meaning: “I’m sorry on … behalf.”
    • Example: ผมต้องขอโทษแทนลูกน้องของผมด้วย.
      • Phŏm dtâawng khǎaw-thôot thaaen lûuk náawng khǎawng phŏm dûuai.
      • “I’m sorry on my staff’s behalf.”

    5- ขอโทษที่มาสาย

    • Thai pronunciation: khǎaw-thôot thîi maa sǎai
    • Meaning: “I’m sorry for being late.”
    • Example: ต้องขอโทษที่มาสายด้วย วันนี้รถติดมากเพราะฝนตก.
      • Dtâawng khǎaw-thôot thîi maa sǎai dûuai wan níi rót dtìt mâak phráw fŏn dtòk.
      • “I’m sorry for being late. Today, the traffic is very bad because of the rain.”

    Sorry, I’m late

    6- ขอโทษที่ให้รอ

    • Thai pronunciation: khǎaw-thôot thîi hâi raaw
    • Meaning: “I’m sorry for keeping you waiting.”
    • Example: ขอโทษที่ให้รอนะคะ ได้ผลตรวจแล้วค่ะ.
      • Khǎaw-thôot thîi hâi raaw ná khá dâai phŏn dtrùuat láaeo khâ.
      • “I’m sorry for keeping you waiting. I already got your result.”

    7- ขอโทษที่ทำผิดพลาด

    • Thai pronunciation: khǎaw-thôot thîi tham phìt phlâat
    • Meaning: “I’m sorry for my mistake.”
    • Example: ขอโทษที่ทำผิดพลาดค่ะ จะไม่ให้เกิดเรื่องแบบนี้อีกแล้วค่ะ.
      • Khǎaw-thôot thîi tham phìt phlâat khâ jà mâi hâi gòoet rûueang bàaep níi ìik láaeo khâ.
      • “I’m sorry for my mistake. This won’t happen again.”

    8- ขออภัยในความไม่สะดวก

    • Thai pronunciation: khǎaw à-phai nai khwaam mâi sà-dùuak
    • Meaning: “I’m sorry for this inconvenience.”
    • Example: ขณะนี้เกิดเหตุขัดข้องทำให้ไม่สามารถใช้งานลิฟท์ได้ชั่วคราว ต้องขออภัยในความไม่สะดวกด้วยค่ะ.
      • Khà-nà níi gòoet hèet khàt khâawng tham hâi mâi săa-mâat chái ngaan líp dâi chûua khraao dtâawng khǎaw à-phai nai khwaam mâi sà-dùuak dûuai khâ.
      • “Elevator can’t be used now because of some issue. I’m sorry for this inconvenience.”
    • Additional note: This phrase is special. In Thai, when apologizing for an inconvenience, Thai people use ขออภัย (khǎaw à-phai) in both spoken and written language. Thai people don’t use ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot) in this case.

    9- ขอโทษที่แจ้งกระทันหัน

    • Thai pronunciation: khǎaw-thôot thîi jâaeng grà-than-hăn
    • Meaning: “I’m sorry for the short notice.”
    • Example: ผมต้องขอยกเลิกบริการวันพรุ่งนี้ เพราะ ติดงานกระทันหัน ต้องขอโทษด้วยที่แจ้งกระทันหัน.
      • Phŏm dtâawng khǎaw yók lôoek baaw-rí-gaan wan phrûng-níi phráw dtìt ngaan grà-than-hăn dtâawng khǎaw thôot dûuai thîi jâaeng grà-than-hăn.
      • “I have to cancel service tomorrow because of sudden word. I’m sorry for the short notice.”

    10- ขอโทษที่รบกวน

    • Thai pronunciation: khǎaw-thôot thîi róp-guuan
    • Meaning: “I’m sorry for disturbing.”
    • Example: ขอโทษที่รบกวนนะคะ ขออนุญาตเข้ามาทำความสะอาดค่ะ.
      • Khǎaw-thôot thîi róp-guuan ná khá · khǎaw à-nú-yâat khâo maa tham khwaam sà-àat khâ.
      • “I’m sorry for disturbing you. May I come in to clean?”

    11- ขอโทษที่ตอบช้า

    • Thai pronunciation: khǎaw-thôot thîi dtàawp cháa
    • Meaning: “I’m sorry for the late reply.”
    • Example: ขอโทษที่ตอบช้านะคะ ช่วงนี้งานยุ่งมากค่ะ.
      • Khǎaw-thôot thîi dtàawp cháa ná khá chûuang níi ngaan yûng mâak khâ.
      • “I’m sorry for the late reply. I’m very busy recently.”

    12- ขอโทษ ขอทางหน่อย

    • Thai pronunciation: khǎaw-thôot khǎaw thaang nàauy?
    • Meaning: “Excuse me, can I get through?”
    • Example: (There are a lot of people in the room, making it hard to walk to the other side)
      • ขอโทษค่ะ ขอทางหน่อยค่ะ?
      • Khǎaw-thôot khà khǎaw thaang nàauy khâ?
      • “Excuse me, can I get through?”

    13- ขอโทษ ขอ…หน่อย

    • Thai pronunciation: khǎaw-thôot khǎaw … nàauy
    • Meaning: “Excuse me, can I get …?”
    • Example: ขอโทษค่ะ ขอพริกน้ำปลาหน่อยค่ะ?
      • Khǎaw-thôot khâ kkhǎaw phrík nám-bplaa nàauy khâ?
      • “Excuse me, can you give me chilli in fish sauce?”
    • Additional Note: พริกน้ำปลา (phrík nám-bplaa) is a Thai-style sauce made from fish sauce, chilli, and garlic. Thai people eat พริกน้ำปลา (phrík nám-bplaa) together with fried rice and fried egg.

    Excuse Me, Can I Get พริกน้ำปลา [phrík nám-bplaa] Please?

    3. Phrases for Condolences in Thai

    Now, you may wonder how Thai people share condolences, such as how to say “Sorry for your loss,” in Thai. การแสดงความเสียใจ (gaan sà-daaeng khwaam sĭia-jai) is “condolence” in Thai. In English, you say “I’m sorry for ….” But it’s slightly different in Thai. Thai people don’t say what they’re sorry for, they just feel sorry with you. So there’s only one phrase Thai people use for this.

    1- เสียใจด้วย

    • Thai pronunciation: sĭia-jai dûuai
    • Meaning: “I’m sorry for you.”
    • Example: (Your friend knows that you just lost your beloved one)
      • เสียใจด้วยนะ.
      • sĭia-jai dûuain á.
      • “I’m sorry for you.”

    4. Sentences to Use with “Sorry”

    Sometimes, you don’t say sorry alone. You may want to say other things to convey that you’re really sorry and that you want to make up for what happened. Here’s a list of sentences you can use:

    1- ฉันไม่ได้ตั้งใจ

    • Thai pronunciation: chǎn mâi dâi dtâng-jai
    • Meaning: “I didn’t mean to do this.”
    • Example: ขอโทษที่ทำเธอเจ็บตัว ฉันไม่ได้ตั้งใจ.
      • Khǎaw-thôot thîi tham hâi thoow jèp dtuua chǎn mâi dâi dtâng-jai.
      • “I didn’t mean to hurt you. I am sorry.”

    I’m Sorry. I Didn’t Mean To

    2- ฉันไม่ได้ตั้งใจจะให้เป็นแบบนี้

    • Thai pronunciation: chăn mâi dâi dtâng jai jà hâi bpen bàaep níi
    • Meaning: “I didn’t mean for this to happen.”
    • Example: ขอโทษที่ทำให้ลำบาก ฉันไม่ได้ตั้งใจจะให้เป็นแบบนี้.
      • Khǎaw-thôot thîi tham hâi lam-bàak chăn mâi dâi dtâng jai jà hâi bpen bàaep níie.
      • “I’m sorry for causing trouble. I didn’t mean for this to happen.”

    3- ฉันจะไม่ทำแบบนี้อีกแล้ว

    • Thai pronunciation: chăn jà mâi tham bàaep níi ìik láaeo
    • Meaning: “I won’t do this again.”
    • Example: ขอโทษจริง ๆ ฉันจำไม่ทำแบบนี้อีกแล้ว.
      • Khǎaw-thôot jing jing chăn jà mâi tham bàaep níi ìik láaeo.
      • “I’m really sorry. I won’t do this again.”

    4- ดีกันนะ

    • Thai pronunciation: dii gan ná
    • Meaning: “Let’s reconcile.”
    • Example: ขอโทษ ดีกันนะ.
      • khǎaw-thôot dii gan ná.
      • “I’m sorry. Let’s reconcile.”
    • Additional note: This is an informal phrase. Thai people only say this to friends, family members, or people who they’re close with.

    5- อย่าโกรธเลยนะ

    • Thai pronunciation: yàa gròot looei ná
    • Meaning: “Please don’t be mad at me.”
    • Example: ขอโทษค่ะ อย่าโกรธหนูเลยนะ.
      • khǎaw-thôot yàa gròot nǔu looei ná.
      • “I’m sorry, please don’t be mad at me.”
    • Additional note: This is also an informal phrase. Thai people only say this to friends, family members, or people who they’re close with.

    6- ยกโทษให้ฉันเถอะ

    • Thai pronunciation: yók thôot hâi chăn thòe
    • Meaning: “Please forgive me.”
    • Example: ขอโทษ ยกโทษให้เราเถอะนะ.
      • khǎaw-thôot yók thôot hâi rao thòe ná.
      • “I’m sorry, please forgive me.”

    7- มันเป็นความผิดของฉันเอง

    • Thai pronunciation: man bpen khwaam phìt khǎawng chăn eeng
    • Meaning: “It is my fault.”
    • Example: มันเป็นความผิดของฉันเอง ขอโทษนะ.
      • man bpen khwaam phìt khǎawng chăn eeng khǎaw-thôot ná.
      • “This is my fault. I’m sorry.”

    5. Reply Phrases for When Someone Says Sorry to You

    Now that we’ve gone over various ways to say sorry, we’ll now go over what to say when someone says sorry to us. The list below shows some of the phrases you can use.

    1- ไม่เป็นไร

    • Thai pronunciation: mâi bpen rai
    • Meaning: “It is okay.” / “It is alright.”
    • How to use: This is the main way to reply when you’re okay or no longer angry. This can be used in every situation, both formal and informal.

    2- ฉันยกโทษให้

    • Thai pronunciation: chǎn yók thôot hâi
    • Meaning: “I forgive you.”
    • How to use: You say this to show that you forgive the other party or parties.

    3- ช่างมันเถอะ

    • Thai pronunciation: châng man thòe
    • Meaning: “Never mind.”
    • How to use: This is another way you can say that you’re no longer angry. However, this is quite informal. Thai people only say this to friends, family members, or people who they’re close with.

    4- ลืม ๆ มันไปเหอะ

    • Thai pronunciation: luuem luuem man bpai hòe
    • Meaning: “Just forget it.”
    • How to use: This phrase also shows that you’re no longer angry and forgive them. It’s an informal phrase, so don’t use it in a business situation.

    5- ฉันไม่ยกโทษให้

    • Thai pronunciation: chǎn mâi yók thôot hâi
    • Meaning: “I don’t forgive you.”
    • How to use: You say this to show that you’re still mad for what the other party or parties did and don’t forgive them yet.

    I’m Still Mad at You

    6. Tips on How to Say Sorry in Thai

    If you’ve reached this part of the article, you’ll find that if you want to be able to say sorry like Thai people, there’s quite a lot to practice and remember. Here are some tips that will help you make your apology sound either formal or informal. To make the sentence sound formal or informal in the Thai language, it depends on pronouns and the word you put at the end of a sentence.

    1- Pronoun

    There are many Thai pronouns you can use to call yourself. Each one can be used in a different situation depending on the level of formality and the gender of the speaker. Here’s the list of Thai pronouns you can use, ordered by level of formality from the most formal to least formal.

    • Male: ผม (phǒm); เรา (rao)
    • Female: ดิฉัน (dì-chǎn); ฉัน (chǎn); เรา (rao); หนู (nǔu) [Nǔu is only used when talking to older people.]

    Still, please note that in Thai, sometimes people cut off the subject if the speaker is the one who did the action. So, you may hear Thai people say ขอโทษนะ (khǎaw-thôot ná) instead of ฉันขอโทษนะ (chǎn khǎaw-thôot ná) when saying “I’m sorry.”

    2- Khráp and Khâ

    To make a sentence sound formal in Thai, Thai people put the word ครับ (khráp) or ค่ะ (khâ) at the end of a sentence when speaking. ครับ (khráp) is used when the speaker is male, while ค่ะ (khâ) is used when the speaker is female. If you want to say sorry informally, there’s no need to put ครับ (khráp) or ค่ะ (khâ) at the end of the sentence.

    Apart from ครับ (khráp) and ค่ะ (khâ), Thai people sometimes put นะ (ná) at the end of an informal sentence to make it sound more friendly. These words are คำลงท้าย (kham long tháai) in Thai.

    7. Conclusion

    By now, you should know some basic words for how to say sorry in Thai. We hope you now have a better idea of the importance of “sorry” in learning Thai.

    If nothing else, work on memorizing ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot) and ไม่เป็นไร (mâi bpen rai). You can use them in almost any situation. However, if you know many phrases, you can express your feelings better, so keep practicing. Once you know them all, don’t forget to learn other interesting and fun Thai lessons at ThaiPod101.com.

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