Travel is one of the reasons many people decide to learn a new language. There’s something magical about visiting a foreign country and being able to speak with locals in their native tongue. 

Thailand—often labeled the Land of Smiles—is a wonderful travel destination, whether you’re learning the language or not. Bangkok, in particular, is known for its beauty and strong tourist appeal. 

In this Bangkok travel guide from ThaiPod101.com, we’ll provide you with a list of the most famous places to visit in Bangkok. We’ll also give you some tips on how to make the most of your trip and go over some basic travel vocabulary you should know. 

Table of Contents

1. Facts About Bangkok, Thailand
2. Where to Visit for a 1-3 Day Trip
3. Highly Recommended Places for a 4-7 Day Trip (or Longer)
4. Thai Survival Phrases for Travelers
5. Conclusion

1. Facts About Bangkok, Thailand

Let’s start with some interesting information about Bangkok so that you know what to expect and how to prepare yourself for the trip.

Name

Did you know that Bangkok, in the native language, is the longest city name in the world? 

Most Thai people call the city กรุงเทพมหานคร (grung-thêep-má-hǎa-ná-khaawn) or simply กรุงเทพ (grung-thêep) for short. But the city’s full name is much longer:

กรุงเทพมหานคร อมรรัตนโกสินทร์ มหินทรายุธยา มหาดิลกภพ นพรัตนราชธานีบูรีรมย์ อุดมราชนิเวศน์มหาสถาน อมรพิมานอวตารสถิต สักกะทัตติย วิษณุกรรมประสิทธิ์ (grung-thêep-má-hǎa-ná-khaawn à-maawn-rát-dtà-ná-goo-sǐn má-hǐn-thá-raa-à-yút-thá-yaa má-hǎa-dì-lòk-phóp nóp-phá-rát-râat-chá-thaa-nii-buu-rii-rom ù-dom-râat-chá-ní-wêet-má-hǎa-sà-thǎan à-maawn-phí-maan-à-wá-dtaan-sà-thìt sàk-gà-thát-dtì-yá wít-sà-nú-gam-bprà-sìt)

It’s such a long name that Thai children sing it in a song when doing hand play.

General Information

Bangkok has been the capital city of Thailand since 1782. It’s home to around six million people, which makes it the largest city in the country. 

The currency of Thailand is Baht. Compared to other countries, the cost of living here isn’t very expensive.  The average cost of a normal meal is 50 Baht (1.61 USD) and the cost of a hotel starts at around 700 Baht (22.5 USD).

If you decide to come to Bangkok, do not worry about the language barrier. Not all Thai people can speak English, but they’re still willing to help you should you need it. That said, knowing a little bit of Thai can go a long way; for an even better travel experience, make sure to study our list of travel phrases at the end of the article. 

Weather

Since Thailand is located near the equator, the weather is hot and humid all year long, except during the rainy season from mid-May to mid-October. The temperature is normally around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit).   

So, what is the best season to visit Bangkok? It all depends on what you want to see and do while you’re there! 

The best time to visit Bangkok for shopping is from November to January. The weather during this time frame isn’t very hot, the department stores have all been decorated for Christmas, and there are a lot of promotions going on. But if you want to join the Songkran Festival, April would be the best time to travel to Bangkok.

Travel Tips

Let’s start with the most important question: Is a visa required to visit Bangkok? 

For a concrete answer, you’ll need to check with the Thai embassy in your country. You may need a visa to visit Bangkok depending on your nationality. 

Because the currency in Thailand is Baht, you’ll need to prepare some cash before your trip. However, most hotels and department stores also accept credit or debit cards. 

In addition to your normal belongings, you may need to bring an umbrella as well as a hat or cap as the weather is hot and sunny. Other than that, if you forget anything, you can buy it in Bangkok.

2. Where to Visit for a 1-3 Day Trip 

If you plan to visit Bangkok in three days or less, there are a few locations you may want to prioritize. Following is a list of our recommendations, based on category; skim through and pick the ones that best match your tastes! 

Temples

The Thai word for “temple” is วัด (wát). 

If you come to Thailand, visiting temples is a must. Apart from their religious associations, temples reflect the architecture and culture of Thailand. Here are three temples in Bangkok we think you’ll love to see! Because they’re all nearby each other, you can visit all three on the same day. 

วัดพระศรีรัตนศาสดาราม (วัดพระแก้ว) / พระบรมมหาราชวัง

English name:
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha / The Grand Palace

Thai name:
wát-phrá-srǐi-rát-dtà-ná-sàat-sà-daa-raam  (wát-phrá-gâaeo) / phrá-bà-rom-má-hǎa-râat-chá-wang

Highlight:
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is called “The Grand Palace” because in the past, kings lived inside of it. Due to its royal past, it boasts some beautiful architecture. Also, as its name suggests, another highlight is the Emerald Buddha. 

Things to do:
There’s a lot you can do here: pay respects to the Emerald Buddha, look at the wall painting of Ramayana, view the “Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall,” and visit “Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles.”

What it’s most recommended for:

• Learning about Thai culture
• Viewing architecture
• Sightseeing 

วัดพระเชตุพนวิมลมังคลารามราชวรมหาวิหาร (วัดโพธิ์)

English name:
Wat Pho

Thai name:
wát-phrá-chee-dtù-phon-wí-mon-mang-khá-laa-raam-râat-chá-wo-rá-má-hǎa-wí-hǎan (wát-phoo)

Highlight:
This temple is viewed as being the first university in Thailand because the names of various educational subjects are inscribed here. It’s also “The Memory of the World Programme of UNESCO.”

Things to do:
There are plenty of unique experiences to be had here. You can pay respects to the reclining Buddha, look at the beauty of various pagodas, and listen to the story of the Wat Pho giants. After you’ve gotten your fill of Thai culture and history, you can also get a Thai massage here.

What it’s most recommended for:

• Learning about Thai culture
• Viewing architecture
• Sightseeing 

วัดอรุณราชวรารามราชวรมหาวิหาร (วัดอรุณ / วัดแจ้ง)

English name:
Temple of Dawn

Thai name:
wát-à-run-râat-chá-wá-raa-raam-râat-chá-waaw-rá-má-hǎa-wí-hǎan (wát-à-run / wát-jâaeng)

Highlight:
The Temple of Dawn is known for its incredible beauty and architecture, making it the perfect spot for sightseeing and photo-ops. 

Things to do:
Stupa of Wat Arun is one of the most popular Bangkok sightseeing places, offering a spectacular view of the sunrise and sunset at the riverside. And of course, to complete the story of the Wat Pho giants, you have to listen to the story of the Wat Jaaeng giants as well.

What it’s most recommended for:

• Learning about Thai culture
• Viewing architecture
• Sightseeing
• Taking pictures

Shows

There are a lot of interesting shows you can watch in Bangkok that reflect Thai culture, so you’re sure to find one you like! 

สยามนิรมิต

English name:
Siam Niramit Show

Thai name:
sà-yǎam-ní-rá-mít

Highlight of the show:
This is the show to see for an enthralling story of Thailand’s history and culture. It takes place on a gigantic stage and employs amazing special effects—there are even live elephants involved! This show has been the recipient of several prestigious awards, so you shouldn’t miss it.

What it’s most recommended for:

• Learning about Thai culture
• Good for kids
• Good for a rainy day
• Easy access for seniors and people with disabilities

มวยไทย

English name:
Thai boxing show

Thai name:
muuai-thai

Highlight of the show:
Thai boxing is a favorite sport of many people, both inside and outside of Thailand. If you enjoy sports or the martial arts, your visit to Bangkok should absolutely include a live Thai boxing match! 

What it’s most recommended for:

• Good for a rainy day
• Sports

คาลิปโซ่ คาบาเร่ต์

English name:
The Calypso Cabaret Show

Thai name:
khaa-líp-sôo khaa-baa-rêe

Highlight of the show:
The Calypso Cabaret Show provides a truly unique Broadway-style show. The cast is composed of transgender individuals who perform an array of shows, from dance numbers to dramas. The stage, music, and lighting are all phenomenal, and the shows are designed to cater to a wide variety of audiences and nationalities. 

What it’s most recommended for:

• Good for a rainy day
• Broadway-style show

Nature

Being in the city for a while might make you crave some time in nature. Despite being a big, crowded city, Bangkok does have several outdoor activities for tourists! These activities are budget-friendly, great for kids, and the perfect way to spend some quality outdoor time. 

สวนลุมพินี

English name:
Lumpini Park

Thai name:
sǔuan-lum-phí-nii

Highlight:
Lumpini Park is the first public park in Thailand and is over 142 acres in size. It’s located in the center of the city, and because it’s so big, entering the park is like going into another world. The weather in the morning and evening is very nice, so if you want to get some exercise during your trip, you should definitely add this park to your itinerary! The park is known to host a variety of meditation and aerobics classes (free of charge!), and you can also rent paddle boats anytime or enjoy listening to live jazz music on a Sunday.  

Things to do:

• Exercise
• Meditate
• Jog
• Ride a bicycle
• Walk
• Sightsee
• Take pictures
• Listen to live music
• Rent paddle boats

สวนวชิรเบญจทัศ (สวนรถไฟ)

English name:
Rotfai Park

Thai name:
sǔuan-wá-chí-rá-ben-jà-thát (sǔuan-rót-fai)

Highlight:
This is another park in Bangkok you can visit. Its location may not be as convenient as Lumpini Park’s, but the atmosphere is quite pleasant. It’s slightly bigger than Lumpini Park, at over 148 acres. In addition to renting paddle boats for the lake or bicycles for the trails, you can pass some time in the park’s butterfly garden or admire the cute miniature version of Bangkok that features small replicas of popular buildings. 

Things to do:

• Exercise
• Jog
• Ride a bicycle
• Walk
• Sightsee
• Take pictures
• Rent paddle boats
• See butterflies
• View the miniature Bangkok setup

บางกะเจ้า

English name:
Bangkachao

Thai name:
baang-gà-jâo

Highlight:
Bangkachao is called “the green lung” of Bangkok, and Time magazine even referred to it as “the best urban oasis” in Asia. You can come here to relax in a natural atmosphere, far from the worries of life and the bustling areas of the city. 

Things to do:

• Ride a bicycle
• Walk
• Sightsee
• Take pictures
• Shop
• Relax

Shopping

Now, for the favorite activity of many people: shopping! Going shopping in the local markets and seeing the different products and foods here is an easy, exciting way to really feel the Thai culture. Here are the best places to lighten your wallet in Bangkok. 

ถนนข้าวสาร

English name:
Khaosan Road

Thai name:
thà-nǒn-khâao-sǎan

Highlight:
ถนนข้าวสาร (thà-nǒn-khâao-sǎan) is one of the top places in Bangkok to get your shop on! There are numerous things you can buy here, including plenty of clothing items that reflect Thai culture. You can also find many restaurants and guesthouses here, in addition to budget-friendly hotels for solo travelers. And if you come here for the Songkran Festival, you can participate in water games with the locals! 

What it’s most recommended for:

• Budget-friendly
• Shopping place
• Street food

ตลาดนัดจตุจักร

English name:
Chatuchak Weekend Market

Thai name:
dthà-làat-nát-jà-dtù-jàk

Highlight:
Chatujak Weekend Market is famous for being the biggest shopping market in Bangkok—and the most-visited weekend market worldwide. First opened in 1942, this is a market of massive scale featuring twenty-seven individual sections and numerous stalls. You can find an array of products and food items here, from clothing to plants and even vintage products. 

What it’s most recommended for:

• Shopping place
• Unique shopping experience

เยาวราช

English name:
Chinatown

Thai name:
yao-wá-râat

Highlight:
เยาวราช (yao-wá-râat), or Yaowarat Road, is where much of Bangkok’s Chinatown is located. You can enjoy a good day of shopping here and indulge in some of the area’s notorious street food. If you come here during the Vegetarian Festival (October), there will be a lot of delicious vegetarian foods for you to try. You’ll also get to experience a small bit of Thai-Chinese culture.

What it’s most recommended for:

• Shopping place
• Street food

3. Highly Recommended Places for a 4-7 Day Trip (or Longer)

If you have a longer stay planned, there are more interesting places you can visit in Bangkok. Here are our recommendations.

Museums

If you want to learn more about Thai culture, history, or art, there are a few museums in Bangkok you shouldn’t miss. 

พิพิธภัณฑ์บ้านจิมทอมป์สัน

English name:
Jim Thompson House Museum

Thai name:
phí-phít-thá-phan-bâan-jim-thaawm-sǎn

Highlight:
You may be wondering about the name of this museum: Jim Thompson was an American businessman who founded a silk company in Thailand. He was known for his love of art collection, and over the years, he added to his collection of Southeast Asian art—especially that of Thailand. Thompson disappeared in 1967, after which his collection became open for public viewing via this museum. Here, you’ll find Thai-style houses and pottery in a natural and relaxing atmosphere at the center of Bangkok.

What it’s most recommended for:

• Culture
• Architecture
• Restaurant

ท้องฟ้าจำลอง

English name:
Planetarium

Thai name:
tháawng-fáa-jam-laawng

Highlight:
If you love astronomy or stargazing, you need to make room for this on your itinerary at all costs. It’s a nice place to visit and children will definitely love it.

What it’s most recommended for:

• Budget-friendly
• Good for kids
• Good for a rainy day
• Honeymoon spot

พิพิธภัณฑ์สถานแห่งชาติ

English name:
National Museum

Thai name:
phí-phít-thá-phan-sà-thǎan-hàaeng-châat

Highlight:
If you want to know more about Thai history and Thai-style arts, this Bangkok art and culture museum is the perfect place. Because it used to be a palace, you’ll also be able to see beautiful architecture during your visit.

What it’s most recommended for:

• Culture
• Sightseeing
• Thai arts

Animals

If you’re an animal-lover, there are plenty of exciting attractions in Bangkok you’ll have a blast visiting. 

ซีไลฟ์ แบงคอก โอเชี่ยน เวิลด์

English name:
Sealife Bangkok Ocean World

Thai name:
sii-lái-báaeng-khâawk-oo-chîian-wooen

Highlight:
Home to a large variety of sea life, Sealife Bangkok Ocean World boasts an aquarium of 10,000+ square meters. While here, you can get close to the sea stars and sea cucumbers, watch divers submerge themselves in a seven-meter tank to feed the sea life, and admire tropical freshwater species from around the world.

What it’s most recommended for:

• Good for kids
• Good for a rainy day
• Easy access for seniors and people with disabilities

สถานเสาวภา สภากาชาดไทย (สวนงู)

English name:
Snake Farm

Thai name:
sà-thǎan-sǎo-wá-phaa sà-phaa-gaa-châat-thai (sǔuan-nguu)

Highlight:
This is an educational organization about snakes, located at the center of the city. During your visit here, you’ll be able to watch how venom is extracted from snakes, see snake handling up close, and take pictures with the snakes. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about snakes, including information about snake biology and snake bite treatment.

What it’s most recommended for:

• Snake-lovers
• Budget-friendly

อุทยานผีเสื้อและแมลงกรุงเทพ

English name:
Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium

Thai name:
ùt-thá-yaan-phǐi-sûuea-láe-má-laaeng-grung-thêep

Highlight:
At the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, you can learn about and watch over 500 butterflies of twenty different species in a large dome. There’s also a video to watch about insects and ecology, and you can see an exhibition about the larvae of butterflies and insects.

What it’s most recommended for:

• Butterfly-lovers
• Budget-friendly
• Good for kids

Nightlife

Wondering where to visit in Bangkok at night? Here are two locations you should definitely check out for an exhilarating night out (keep in mind that these are not family-friendly). 

ซอยคาวบอย

English name:
Soi Cowboy

Thai name:
saauy-khaao-baauy

Highlight:
Located in the Asoke area, Soi Cowboy is a popular nightlife destination for tourists. The place is named after an American named T.G. “Cowboy” Edwards, who opened the second bar in the area. Today, the area is mostly known for its string of go-go bars and pubs. 

What it’s most recommended for:

• Adult-only
• Drinking
• Sexy show

ถนนพัฒน์พงศ์

English name:
Patpong Road

Thai name:
thà-nǒn-phát-phong

Highlight:
Patpong Road is located in the Silom area and is a “designated entertainment zone” as well as a red light district. Like Soi Cowboy, Patpong Road is popular for its go-go bars and pubs. 

What it’s most recommended for:

• Adult only
• Drinking
• Sexy show

Department Stores

If you didn’t get enough shopping in earlier, now’s the time to get your fill! Here are two department stores in Bangkok we highly recommend. 

ไอคอน สยาม

English name:
Icon Siam

Thai name:
ai-khâawn-sà-yǎam

Highlight:
This is a department store near the riverside, and it’s composed of several areas, such as:

★ Siam Takashiyama (Japanese department store)
★ Sook Siam (Thai culture representation and products)
★ Dear Tummy (Premium supermarket)
★ Superpark (Theme park)

There are often beautiful shows here during festivals and holidays, such as on Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Things to do:

• Shopping
• Eating
• Watching shows
• Souvenir shopping

What it’s most recommended for:

• Shopping
• Restaurants
• Good for a rainy day
• Cinema

สยาม พารากอน

English name:
Siam Paragon

Thai name:
sà-yǎam-phaa-raa-gaawn

Highlight:
One of the top three biggest department stores in Thailand, this place is heaven for people who love shopping.  You can find everything here: all kinds of restaurants, a big supermarket, clothing shops, bag shops, watch shops, and the list goes on.

Things to do:

• Shopping
• Eating
• Watching sea life at “Sealife Bangkok Ocean World”
• Souvenir shopping

What it’s most recommended for:

• Shopping
• Restaurants
• Good for a rainy day
• Cinema

4. Thai Survival Phrases for Travelers

If you’re going to travel to Thailand, learning some basic phrases may prove very helpful in a variety of situations. To give you a nice head start, we’ll provide you with ten Thai survival phrases for travelers. Keep in mind that when Thai people greet each other, they do an action called ไหว้ (wâi). 

• สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dii) – “Hello.” / “Goodbye.”
• ขอบคุณ (khàawp-khun) – “Thank you.”
• ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot) – “Sorry.”
• ดีมาก (dii-mâak) – “Very good.”
• ไม่เข้าใจภาษาไทย (mâi-khâo-jai-phaa-sǎa-thai) – “I don’t understand Thai.”
• ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน (hâawng-nám-yùu-thîi-nǎi) – “Where is the restroom?”
• ราคาเท่าไหร่ (raa-khaa-thâo-rài) – “How much is it?”
• ลดราคาหน่อยได้มั๊ย (lót-raa-khaa-nàauy-dâi-mái) – “Can I reduce the price?”
• เอาอันนี้ (ao-an-níi) – “I want this.”
• ช่วยด้วย (chûuay-dûuay) – “Help!”

Conclusion

If you were on the fence before, we hope this article has given you plenty of good reasons to visit Bangkok in the near future. And if you’ve been to Bangkok already, we would love to hear about your visit! Are there any impressive locations we didn’t include?  

We encourage you to learn a few additional Thai words or phrases to supplement the ones we listed above—this will make your trip much smoother and a lot more fun! ThaiPod101.com has plenty of useful language and culture resources to help you make the most of your time in Bangkok. After reading this article, you may want to check out these pages:

• Travel insurance in Thailand
• The right clothes for Thai weather
• Thai currency

We’re wishing you happy Thai learning and safe travels!

Because English is a global language, it’s only natural that it would influence and be used in other languages, including Thai. If you know anything about Thai culture or have lived in Thailand for any amount of time, you’ll know that Thai people are very open-minded concerning outside influences. For this reason, there are many English loanwords in the Thai language. 

However, this influence has not been heavily reciprocated, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find any Thai words used in English. 

In this article, we’ll introduce you to Tinglish (Thai+English), English loanwords in Thai, and more!

Let’s learn Tinglish and English loanwords!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Tinglish
2. English Loanwords Used in Thai
3. How to Say These Names in Thai
4. Conclusion

1. Introduction to Tinglish

As mentioned earlier, Thai people are pretty open-minded. They have been greatly influenced by foreigners in terms of food, clothing, and language. There is no clear evidence indicating how Tinglish became so popular, but a possible explanation is that some Thai people heard these English words used in a specific context and misunderstood the actual meanings. As a result, they began using these words incorrectly.

Although the pronunciation of Tinglish words is the same as (or very similar to) that of the original English words, you have to know their Thai meaning in order to communicate effectively with Thai people. 

To help you start strong, we’ve compiled several examples of Tinglish, or common English words used in Thai with different meanings. 

1 – Fit 

Thai word: ฟิต (fít)

English meaning: the perfect size

Thai meaning: too tight or too small 

Example:  
ชั้นใส่กระโปรงตัวนี้ไม่ได้แล้ว มันฟิตเกินไป ต้องลดความอ้วนแล้วหละ
chǎn-sài-grà-bproong-dtuua-níi-mài-dâi-láaeo man-fít-gooen-bpai dtôong-lót-khwaam-aûuan-láaeo-là
I can no longer wear this skirt. It is too tight. I have to go on a diet now.

2 – Check bill 

Thai word: เช็คบิล (chék-bin)

English meaning: In English, people use either “check” or “bill.”

Thai meaning: Thai people use both words together as เช็คบิล (chék-bin).

Example:  
เช็คบิลเลยค่ะ และอาหารที่เหลือนี่ห่อกลับบ้านนะคะ
chék-bin-looei-khà láe-aa-hǎan-thîi-lǔuea-nîi-hàaw-glàp-bâan-ná-khá
Bill, please. And pack this leftover food to take home.

Should I say “check bill” or “bill”?

3 – Intrend

Thai word: อินเทรนด์ (in-treen)

English meaning: There is no English meaning for this word, but it comes from the word “trend.”

Thai meaning: trendy

Example:  
ตอนนี้สีเขียวกำลังอินเทรนด์เลย
dtaawn-níi-sǐi-khǐiao-gam-lang-in-threen-looei
“Green” is very trendy now.

4 – Chill 

Thai word: ชิล (chin)

English meaning: cold

Thai meaning: chill out

Example:  
บรรยากาศดีมาก น่ามานั่งชิล
ban-yaa-gàat-dii-mâak nâa-maa-nâng-chin
The atmosphere is very good for chilling out.

5 – In 

Thai word: อิน (in)

English meaning: a preposition 

Thai meaning: being “into” something

Example:  
ตอนนี้แม่กำลังอินเรื่องการปลูกต้นไม้
dtaawn-níi-mâae-gam-lang-in-rûueang-gaan-bplùuk-dtôn-mái
Right now, mom is so into planting.

6 – Fitness 

Thai word: ฟิตเนส (fít-nèet)

English meaning: a term referring to being physically fit and healthy

Thai meaning: a fitness center or gym

Example:  
ฤดีไปออกกำลังกายที่ฟิตเนสทุกวัน
rúe-dii-bpai-àawk-gam-lang-gaai-thîi-fít-nèet-thúk-wan
Ruedee goes to the gym every day.

I go to the ‘gym,’ not the ‘fitness.’

7 – Over 

Thai word: โอเวอร์ (oo-vôoe)

English meaning: an adjective (Winter is almost over.) / a preposition (over the mountain) / an adverb (the puddle he jumped over) / a prefix (The light was overhead.)

Thai meaning: to exaggerate

Example:  
อย่าพูดจาโอเวอร์ไปหน่อยเลย
yàa-phûut-jaa-oo-vôoe-bpai-nàauy-looei
Don’t over exaggerate.

8 – Gay 

Thai word: เกย์ (gee)

English meaning: homosexual

Thai meaning: male homosexual

Explanation: While the English word can refer to both male and female homosexuals, the Thai word only refers to males.

Example:  
พัฒน์เป็นเกย์
phát-bpen-gee
Pat is gay.

9 – Wave

Thai word: เวฟ (wéep)

English meaning: sea wave / a hand gesture used for greeting

Thai meaning: to warm food or a drink in a microwave oven

Explanation: Thai people shorten the word “microwave” and use it as a verb.

Example:  
หลังจากนำออกจากตู้เย็น ให้เอาไปเวฟ 1 นาที
lǎng-jàak-nam-àawk-jàak-dtûu-yen hâi-aao-bpai-wéep-nùeng-naa-thi
Warm this in the microwave for 1 minute after taking it out from the fridge.

10 – Pretty 

Thai word: พริตตี้ (phrít-dtîi)

English meaning: beautiful or cute

Thai meaning: model

Example:  
พริตตี้ที่งานมอเตอร์โชว์สวยมาก
phrít-dtîi-thîi-ngaan-maaw-dtôoe-shoo-sǔuai-mâak
Models at the auto show are very beautiful.

2. English Loanwords Used in Thai 

คำทับศัพท์ (kham-tháp-sàp) means “English loanwords.” 

The difference between English loanwords in Thai and Tinglish is that loanwords retain their original English meaning. There are a lot of English words used in Thai, so we’ve prepared a list of the most common loanwords by category.

1 – Food

• apple = แอบเปิ้ล (áep-bpôoen)
• strawberry = สตอเบอร์รี่ (sà-dtraaw-booe-rîi)
• blueberry = บลูเบอร์รี่ (bluu-booe-rîi)
• berry = เบอร์รี่ (booe-rîi)
• cherry = เชอร์รี่ (chooe-rîi)
• kiwi = กีวี่ (gii-wîi)
• soup = ซุป (súp)
• hotdog = ฮ็อทดอก (hót-dòk)
• burger = เบอร์เกอร์ (booe-gôoe)
• french fries = เฟรนซ์ฟราย (frén-fraai)
• macaroni = มักกะโรนี (mák-gà-roo-ni)
• spaghetti = สปาเก็ตตี้ (sà-bpa-gét-dtîi)
• pasta = พาสต้า (pháat-dtâa)
• pie = พาย (phaai)
• ham = แฮม (haaem)
• carrot = แครอท (khee-ràawt)
• broccoli = บล็อคโคลี่ (bláwk-khoo-lîi)
• cheese = ชีส (chíit)
• mustard = มัสตาร์ด (mát-dtàat)
• mayonnaise = มายองเนส (maa-yaawng-néet)
• barley = บาร์เลย์ (baa-lèe)
• quinoa = คีนัว (khii-nuua)
• almond = อัลมอนด์ (an-môn)
• macadamia = แม็คคาเดเมีย (máek-khaa-dee-miia)
• walnut = วอลนัท (waaw-nát)
• jam = แยม (yaaem)
• cake = เค้ก (khêek)
• cookie = คุ้กกี้ (khúk-gîi)
• chocolate = ช็อคโกแล็ต (chók-goo-láaet)
• vanilla = วะนิลา (vá-ní-laa)
• sauce = ซอส (sáawt)
• toffee = ท็อฟฟี่ (thóp-fîi)
• ice cream = ไอศครีม (ai-sà-khriim)
• soda = โซดา (soo-daa)
• rum = รัม (ram)
• brandy = บรั่นดี (bràn-dii)
• whiskey = วิสกี้ (vít-gîi)
• beer = เบียร์ (biia)

There are many English loanwords related to food and drinks.

2 – Sports 

• golf = กอล์ฟ (gáawp)
• ball = บอล (baawn)
• football = ฟุตบอล (fút-baawn)
• basketball = บาสเก็ตบอล (báat-gêt-baawn)
• tennis = เทนนิส (then-nít)
• ski = สกี (sà-gii)
• skateboard = สเก็ตบอร์ด (sà-gét-bàawt) 
• bowling = โบว์ลิ่ง (boo-lîng)
• captain = กัปตัน (gàp-dtan)
• game = เกม (geem)
• foul = ฟาวล์ (faao)

3 – Music 

• piano = เปียโน (bpiia-noo)
• guitar = กีตาร์ (gii-dtâa)
• violin = ไวโอลิน (vai-oo-lin)
• flute = ฟลุ๊ต (flút)
• bass = เบส (bèet)
• note = โน๊ต (nóot)
• chord = คอร์ด (khàawt)
• chorus = คอรัส (khaaw-rát)
• microphone = ไมโครโฟน (mai-khroo-foon)
• single = ซิงเกิล (sing-gôoen)
• album = อัลบัม (an-la-bâm)
• show = โชว์ (shoo)
• concert = คอนเสิร์ต (khaawn-sòoet)

4 – Automobiles and Electronics

• gear = เกียร์ (giia)
• brake = เบรก (brèek)
• bus = บัส (bàt)
• tractor = แทรกเตอร์ (thráek-dtôoe)
• taxi = แท็กซี่ (tháek-sîi)
• technology = เทคโนโลยี (thék-noo-loo-yii)
• computer = คอมพิวเตอร์ (khaawm-phíu-dtôoe)
• notebook = โน๊ตบุ๊ค (nóot-búk)
• keyboard = คีย์บอร์ด (khii-bàawt)
• mouse = เมาส์ (máo)
• plug = ปลั๊ก (bplák)
• internet = อินเตอร์เน็ท (in-dtooe-nèt) 
• website = เว็บไซต์ (wép-sái)
• digital = ดิจิตอล (dí-gì-dtân)
• update = อัพเดท (áp-dèet)

5 – Academics

• graph = กราฟ (gráap)
• quota = โควต้า (khoo-dtâa)
• nuclear = นิวเคลียร์ (niu-kriia)
• protein = โปรตีน (bproo-dtiin)
• carbohydrate = คาร์โบไฮเดรต (khaa-boo-hai-drèet)
• physic = ฟิสิกส์ (fí-sìk)
• cell = เซลล์ (seen)
• spore = สปอร์ (sà-bpoo)
• course = คอร์ส (kháawt)
• fossil = ฟอสซิล (fót-sîn)
• thesis = ธีสิส (thii-sìt)
• grade = เกรด (grèet)

6 – Clothes and Cosmetics 

• bra = บรา (braa)
• boxer shorts = บ็อกเซอร์ (bók-sôoe)
• necktie = เน็คไท (nék-thai)
• jeans = ยีนส์ (yiin)
• dress = เดรส (dréet)
• lipstick = ลิปสติก (líp-sà-dtìk)
• eyeshadow = อายชาโดว์ (aai-shaa-dôo)
• brush on = บรัชออน (bràt-aawn)
• mascara = มาสคาร่า (máat-khaa-râa)
• toner = โทนเนอร์ (thoon-nôoe)
• moisturizer = มอยซ์เจอร์ไรเซอร์ (máauy-jooe-rái-sôoe)
• lotion = โลชั่น (loo-chân)

7 – Places

• office = ออฟฟิศ (áawp-fít)
• clinic = คลีนิก (khlii-nìk)
• resort = รีสอร์ท (rii-sàawt)
• apartment = อพาร์ทเมนท์ (a-pháat-mén)
• condominium = คอนโดมิเนียม (khon-doo-mí-nîiam)
• club = คลับ (khlàp)
• bar = บาร์ (baa)
• farm = ฟาร์ม (faam)
• lift = ลิฟท์ (líp)

8 – Animals 

• giraffe = ยีราฟ (yii-ráap)
• hippopotamus = ฮิปโปโปเตมัส (híp-bpoo-bpoo-dtee-mát)
• koala = โคอาล่า (khoo-aa-lâa)
• panda = แพนด้า (phaaen-dâa)
• penguin = เพนกวิน (phen-gwîn)
• dinosaur = ไดโนเสาร์ (dai-noo-sǎo)

A lot of animal names in Thai are English loanwords.

9 – Health and Hospitals 

• vitamin = วิตามิน (wi-dtaa-min)
• vaccine = วัคซีน (wák-siin)
• serum = เซรุ่ม (see-rûm)
• virus = ไวรัส (wai-rát)
• bacteria = แบคทีเรีย (bàaek-thii-riia)
• X-ray = เอ็กซ์เรย์ (ék-sà-ree)
• CT-scan = ซีทีแสกน (sii-thii-sà-gaaen)

10 – Verbs

• copy = ก็อบปี้ (gáawp-bpîi)
• click = คลิก (khlík)
• cheer = เชียร์ (chiia)
• charge = ชาร์จ (cháat)
• check = เช็ค (chék)
• shopping = ชอปปิ้ง (cháawp-bpîng)
• print = ปรินท์ (bprín)

11 – Other English Loanwords in Thai 

• plastic = พลาสติก (phláat-sà-dtìk)
• gas = แก็ส (gáaet)
• card = การ์ด (gáat)
• cartoon = การ์ตูน (gaa-dtuun)
• coupon = คูปอง (khuu-bpaawng)
• guide = ไกด์ (gái)
• tour = ทัวร์ (thuua)
• queue = คิว (khiu)
• spray = สเปร์ย (sà-phree)
• spa = สปา (sà-bpaa)
• TV = ทีวี (thii-wii)

3. How to Say These Names in Thai

In addition to คำทับศัพท์ (kham-tháp-sàp), or “loanwords,” there are many English words in the Thai language that derive directly from global brands or names. Like loanwords, these words have a different pronunciation in Thai. Read through this useful list we’ve compiled to get a better idea of how to pronounce global names in the Thai language! 

1 – Restaurant and Cafe Brands 

• McDonald’s = แม็คโดนัล (máek-doo-nân)
• KFC = เค เอฟ ซี (khee-éep-sii)
• Burger King = เบอร์เกอร์ คิง (booe-gôoe-khing)
• 7-Eleven = เซเว่น อีเลเว่น (see-wêen-ii-lee-wêen)
• Family Mart = แฟมิลี่มาร์ท (faaem-mí-lîi-màat)
• Starbucks = สตาร์บัค (sà-dtaa-bák)
• Au Bon Pain = โอบองแปง (oo-baawng-bpaaeng)
• Swensen = สเวนเซ่นส์ (sà-wên-sên)

2 – Entertainment-Related Names 

• Marvel = มาร์เวล (maa-wêen)
• Disney = ดิสนีย์ (dít-nîi)
• Harry Potter = แฮร์รี่ พ็อตเตอร์ (haae-rîi-pháawt-dtôoe)
• Lord of the Rings = ลอร์ด ออฟ เดอะ ริงส์ (làawt-áawp-dòe-ring)
• Star Wars = สตาร์ วอร์ (sà-dtaa-waaw)
• Iron Man = ไอรอนแมน (ai-râawn-maaen)
• Captain America = กัปตันอเมริกา (gàp-dtan-à-mee-rí-gaa)
• Hulk = ฮัค (hák)
• Thor = ธอร์ (thaaw)
• Black Widow = แบล็ควิโดว์ (bláaek-wí-dôo)
• Hawkeye = ฮอร์คอาย (háawk-aai)
• Spider-Man = สไปเดอร์แมน (sà-bpái-dôoe-maaen)
• Antman = แอนท์แมน (áaen-maaen)
• X-men = เอ็กซ์เมน (ék-meen)
• Batman = แบทแมน (báaet-maaen)
• Superman = ซุปเปอร์แมน (súp-phôoe-maaen)
• Wonder Woman = วอนเดอร์วูแมน (wáawn-dôoe-wuu-mâaen)
• Aquaman = อควาแมน (à-khwâa-maaen)
• MIB = เอ็ม ไอ บี (em-ai-bii)
• Transformers = ทรานซ์ฟอร์เมอร์ (thraan-faaw-môoe)
• Toy Story = ทอยสตอรี่ (thaauy-sà-dtaaw-rîi)
• Frozen = โฟรเซ่น (froo-sên)
• Lion King = ไลออน คิงส์ (lai-âawn-king)
• Mulan = มู่หลาน (mûu-lǎan)
• Beauty and the Beast = บิวตี้ แอนด์ เดอะ บีสต์ (biu-dtîi-aaen-dòe-bìit)
• Maleficent = มาลิฟิเซนต์ (ma-lí-fi-sén)

Thor is ธอร์ in Thai.

3 – Singer and Band Names

• Maroon 5 = มารูน ไฟฟ์ (maa-ruun-fái)
• Linkin Park = ลินคิน พาร์ค (lin-khîn-pháak)
• Black Eyed Peas = แบล็ค อาย พี (bláaek-aai-phii)
• One Direction = วัน ไดเร็คชั่น (wan-dai-rék-chân)
• The Pussycat Dolls = พุซซี่ แคทดอล (phút-sîi-kháet-daawn)
• Fifth Harmony = ฟิฟ ฮาร์โมนี่ (fít-haa-moo-nîi)
• Coldplay = โคล เพลย์ (khoo-phlee)
• Beyonce = บียองเซ่ (bii-yaawng-sêe)
• Taylor Swift = เทเลอร์ สวิฟต์ (thee-lôoe-sà-wíp)
• Katy Perry = เคที่ เพร์รี (khee-thîi-phee-rîi)
• Kanye = คานเย (khaan-yêe)
• Snoop Dogg = สนูป ดอกซ์ (sà-núup-dáawk)
• Jennifer Lopez = เจนนิเฟอร์ โลเปซ (jee-ní-fôoe-loo-phéet)
• Mariah Carey = มาราย แครี่ (maa-raai-khee-rîi)
• Charlie Puth = ชาร์ลี พุท (chaa-lii-phút)
• Celine Dion = เซลีน ดีออน (see-riin-dii-aawn)
• Nicki Minaj = นิคกี้ มินาจ (ník-gîi-míi-nàat)
• Meghan Trainor = เมแกน เทรนเนอร์ (mee-gaaen-three-nôoe)
• Justin Bieber = จัสติน บีเบอร์ (ját-thin-bii-bôoe)
• Eminem = เอ็มมิเน็ม (em-mí-nem)
• Selena Gomez = เซลาน่า โกเมซ (see-lee-nâa-goo-méet)
• Bruno Mars = บรูโน่ มาร์ส (bluu-nôo-maa)

4 – Clothing Brands 

• Victoria’s Secret = วิคตอเรีย ซีเคร็ท (wík-dtaaw-riia-sii-khrèt)
• Playboy = เพลย์บอล (phlee-baauy)
• H&M = เอช แอนด์ เอ็ม (éet-aaen-em)
• Zara = ซาร่า (saa-râa)
• Mango = แมงโก้ (maaeng-gôo)
• Uniqlo = ยูนิโคล่ (uu-ní-khlôo)
• Nike = ไนกี้ (nai-gîi)
• Adidas = อาดิดาส (aa-di-dáat)
• Puma = พูม่า (phuu-mâa)
• Topshop = ท็อปช็อป (tháawp-chàawp)
• Mark & Spencer = มาร์ค แอนด์ สเปนเซอร์ (máak-aaen-sà-phen-sôoe)
• Flipflop = ฟิตฟลอป (fít-flàawp)
• Birkenstock = เบอร์เก็นสต็อค (booe-gên-sà-dtáawk)

5 – Cosmetic Brands 

• Mac = แม็ค (máek)
• Benefit = เบเนฟิต (bee-nee-fìt)
• Bobby Brown = บ็อบบี้ บราวน์ (bóp-bîi-braao)
• Kiehl’s = คีลส์ (khiin)
• L’oreal = ลอรีอัล (laaw-ríi-ân)
• Maybelline = เมเบอร์ลีน (mee-booe-liin)
• Clinique = คลีนิค (khlii-nìk)
• Lamer = ลาแมร์ (laa-maae)

6 – Bag Brands 

• Chanel = ชาแนล (chaa-naaen)
• Coach = โค้ช (khóot)
• Prada = ปราด้า (bpraa-dâa)
• Kate Spade = เคท สเปซ (khéet-sà-bpéet)
• Louis Vuitton = หลุยส์ วิคตอง (lǔi-vít-dtaawng)
• Gucci = กุชชี่ (gút-chîi)

7 – Grocery Brands 

• Unilever = ยูนิลีเวอร์ (uu-ní-lii-wôoe)
• P&G = พี แอนด์ จี (phii-aaen-jii)
• Nestle = เนสท์เล่ (néet-lêe)
• Lion = ไลอ้อน (lai-âawn)

Conclusion

By now, you’ve learned many of the most popular English words in the Thai language. We bet you can remember most (if not all) of them, as they sound so similar to their English equivalents. Because Thai people use these words so often, memorizing them is an important step in your language learning journey. 

Were you surprised by any of the words on our list? Let us know in the comments, and feel free to list any more loanwords you know about! 

And as always, don’t forget to explore ThaiPod101.com to find more interesting lessons. Not sure where to start? Here are a few we think you’ll like: 

• Words Describing Personalities 
• How to Talk About Hobbies in Thai
• Home Cooking

Happy learning, and have fun practicing your Tinglish!

If you’ve ever been to Thailand, you may have found yourself quickly becoming enthralled with the Thai culture. The culture of Thailand features some very distinct qualities that set it apart from Western culture. From the warm, friendly, and open smiles of its people to the national religion of Buddhism, Thailand will inspire any visitor to learn more about the Thai culture, people, and language. 

Before we dive in, how about a quick fun fact? There is a special Thai greeting called ไหว้ (wâi) that you won’t find in other cultures. To perform wai, hold your hands together and bring them up to just under your chin. Once your hands are in position, give a slight nod. Wai is the Thai equivalent of saying hello, goodbye, or any other greeting. 

Of course, there is much more to Thai culture that you should know. On this page, we’ll give you all the information you need to avoid Thai culture shock and learn more about Thai culture and traditions.

Table of Contents

1. Values and Beliefs
2. Philosophies and Religions
3. Family and Work
4. Art
5. Food
6. Traditional Holidays
7. Conclusion

1. Values and Beliefs

Let’s learn more about Thai culture and traditions.

To understand the behaviors and worldviews of Thai people, you need to be aware of the traditional Thai values and beliefs. There are two in particular that play a huge role in our daily lives. 

A- Social Hierarchy

Although Thailand has not been governed by an absolute monarchy for over a hundred years now, there is still a social hierarchy in the country. Thai people pay more respect to certain groups of people, such as the royal family and monks. Also, Thai people are taught to respect those who are older than themselves as well as their benefactors (parents, teachers, etc.). So don’t be surprised when you see the degree of respect shown in our interactions with elders and parents! 

B- Collectivism 

Thailand is often called “the land of smiles” because Thai people always seem to have a smile on their face. While it’s true that Thai people are friendly, visitors will be surprised to find out that a smile does not always equate to happiness. Different smiles can mean anything from pleasure to anger, and most of the time you won’t be aware of any negativity. This is because Thai culture values avoiding conflict and “saving face.” 

The reason behind this is that Thailand is a collectivist society. If you’re in Thailand long enough, you may start to notice that Thai people tend to go along with others when doing group activities. This is because Thai people want to be like others and remain as part of the group. As a result, they don’t dare to voice their opinions in front of others and prefer to compromise instead of really solving problems.    

2. Philosophies and Religions

In addition to smiles, Thailand is well-known for the Buddhist statues found all over the country. Buddhism is the national religion and over ninety percent of Thai people practice it. It’s common to see Buddhist monks in traditional robes walking just about everywhere you go. 

If you truly want to learn Thai, getting acquainted with the basics of Buddhism is not a bad idea. Of course, you don’t have to convert to Buddhism to master the language, but a good knowledge of the religion will go a long way toward understanding the country.

Buddhism is the dominant religion in Thailand.

As you can guess, most Thai philosophies are influenced by Buddhism in one way or another. However, modern Thai culture is one of diversity. As Thai people are quite open-minded, they are also influenced by other religions and beliefs to some extent.  

Because there are many Thai-Chinese in Thai society, there are many practices influenced by Taoism and Confucianism. One example of this is the Vegetarian Festival, which is celebrated during October each year. This popular food festival is mainly celebrated by the Thai-Chinese, though the rest of the population also gets in on the action. Another Thai-Chinese custom is เชงเม้ง (cheeng-méng), when they pay respect to deceased ancestors. 

3. Family and Work

Family and work are integral aspects of society, no matter where you are in the world. In this section, we’ll discuss the essential features of Thai workplace culture and the Thai family. 

A- Family

The Thai culture is very family-oriented. In the past, it was common for Thai people to have large families.  Grandparents got to see their grandchildren, nieces, and nephews on a daily basis, as family members all lived in the same area.

Of course, things have changed over time. While you may see this type of big family in the countryside, it’s not very common in urban areas. Still, Thai families share a strong bond. Despite not living in the same area, family members often meet with each other or communicate via other means. This Thai value has played a large role in shaping the modern Thai society. The importance of family in Thai culture is also reflected in the various Thai words used for family members.

The concept of ความกตัญญู (khwaam-gà-than-yuu), or “gratitude,” is another thing that reflects Thailand’s family-oriented society. Because our parents raised us, it’s very important to take care of them when we grow up. Thus, Thai people won’t send their elderly parents to care centers unless they’re really sick. Doing so would mean that they don’t care for them.

Now let’s discuss a final point about family: marriage. In the past, men could have many wives but nowadays Thai people only practice monogamy. Despite this step forward, there are still some cultural elements that reflect gender inequality. For example, Thai women are pressured to get married earlier than men. While it’s fine for a man to be single in his thirties, this is not the case for women. On the other hand, a man has to pay a ‘bride price’ to a woman’s parents in order to marry her.

B- Work

Thai people are chill by nature and love to have fun. To some extent, this characteristic is reflected in the business world as well. If you ever decide to work in Thailand, you’ll find that Thai people aren’t very punctual in their work. Also, the work atmosphere tends to be less stressful than those in other countries.

Most Thai people work solely to make a living, not to do things they love or are passionate about. The Patronage system, which was a prominent feature in how Thailand was once governed, also plays a role in our work environment.

4. Art

Several aspects of the Thai culture and heritage feature heavily in our artwork, with many of our most popular paintings and sculptures having roots in Buddhism. For example, you can find various paintings of Buddhist stories in the temples and Buddha statues are viewed as an artform as well as a religious symbol. 

Thailand is also home to several impressive architectural feats, most notably our temples. In the past, temples were not only places for practicing religion, but they also served as the royal family’s palace. Because the temples in Thailand reflect this aspect of history, their extreme beauty should come as no surprise.

Beautiful Thai architecture

Earthenware is another outstanding Thai artform. While temples are related to religion, this type of art is more ordinary in nature. A famous type of earthenware is called “celadon ware,” or เครื่องสังคโลก (khrûueng-sǎng-khá-lôok). It originated in Sukhothai province during the Sukhothai Era.

As for literature, Thailand is known for its poetry. There are various types of poems written in the Thai language, many of which focus on storytelling. These poetic ‘stories’ are diverse, covering a range of genres from religion and fantasy to love and food.

Thailand boasts a range of musical instruments and styles. In Thai culture, music is a huge part of daily life and is also incorporated into special events. For example, Thai people like to sing a song called เพลงรำวงเกี่ยวข้าว (phleeng-ram-wong-gìiao-khâao), or “Harvest Song,” during the harvest. This is also a great example of their fun-loving nature, as they love to sing and dance even during work.

5. Food

Nowadays, Thailand is well-known for two things: its beautiful travel destinations and its delicious cuisine. Indeed, Thai food and culture go hand in hand. There’s even a special Thai phrase that ties into this topic:

• ในน้ำมีปลา ในนามีข้าว” (nai-nám-mii-bplaa nai-naa-mii-khâao)

Literally meaning, “There are fish in the water and rice in the rice field,” this saying has been used since the Sukhothai Era to describe Thailand’s natural richness. From the past until now, Thailand has never lacked food. If you visit Thailand, you’ll be able to find food 24/7.  

Thai cuisine is known for its use of herbs and deep flavors, as well as its beautiful and colorful presentations. As mentioned earlier, Thai people are quite open-minded. This means you’ll find many Thai food items that have been influenced by foreign cuisines. For example, Thai sweets that use egg as an ingredient are the result of Portuguese influence.

Thai food is tasty and full of herbs.

6. Traditional Holidays

When it comes to traditional Thai holidays, there are two that stand out from the rest: วันสงกรานต์ (wan-sǒng-graan) and วันลอยกระทง (wan-laauy-grà-thong). 

A- วันสงกรานต์ (wan-sǒng-graan)

วันสงกรานต์ (wan-sǒng-graan), or the Thai New Year, takes place from April 13 to April 15 each year. During this holiday, Thai people go back to their hometown to visit their parents or travel with family. 

Popular วันสงกรานต์ (wan-sǒng-graan) activities include visiting temples to make merit and building pagodas made of sand and flowers. Thai people also รดน้ำดำหัวผู้ใหญ่ (rót-nám-dam-hǔua-phûu-yài), which is an activity to show one’s gratitude, ask for forgiveness, and get a blessing from one’s parents or grandparents. 

These activities clearly reflect the family-oriented society of Thailand.

รดน้ำดำหัวผู้ใหญ่ [rót-nám-dam-hǔua-phûu-yài]

In addition to the activities above, Thai people also play with water during this period. This is because วันสงกรานต์ (wan-sǒng-graan) is not only the solar new year, but also the hottest time of the year. Family gatherings and water games make วันสงกรานต์ (wan-sǒng-graan) a colorful holiday that foreigners and natives alike look forward to.

B- วันลอยกระทง (wan-laauy-grà-thong)

The history of วันลอยกระทง (wan-laauy-grà-thong) dates back to the Sukhothai Era. On this day, Thai people engage in certain activities to ask forgiveness from พระแม่คงคา (phrá-mâae-khong-khaa), the goddess of rivers. Thai people make กระทง (grà-thong), or “lotus-shaped boats,” from banana tree leaves and flowers and float them down the river.  

Nowadays, วันลอยกระทง (wan-laauy-grà-thong) is one of the most popular holidays in Thailand. There are many activities you can do on this day: observe the beautiful scenery at night, see women dressed in traditional Thai clothing, experience the beauty of Thai dancing, and much more.

Let’s ลอยกระทง [laauy-grà-thong].

7. Conclusion

Learning about Thai culture and society is a good way to complement your language studies. In doing so, you’ll gain a deep appreciation for the language, and may even be inspired to take your studies further. 

If you’re looking for a language course, our Thai podcast lessons and other learning materials may be just what you need. At ThaiPod101.com, we understand that busy individuals may find it hard to fit study time into their hectic schedules. That’s why we offer additional tools—such as themed vocabulary lists and a Thai-English dictionary—to help you learn Thai more quickly. In addition, you’ll find a number of articles related to Thai culture topics such as traditional clothing, history, and food. In short, we make learning Thai easy and fun!

Actually, the language itself is a great representation of Thai culture and values. In each of our lessons, we combine grammar and vocabulary points with practical cultural information. To get a taste of our teaching approach, create your free lifetime account today and check out our lessons for yourself. Our content will prepare you both linguistically and culturally for a range of daily situations, from talking about your pets or discussing your hobbies to planning a date! 

Before you go, let us know in the comments how Thai culture compares to that in your country. We look forward to hearing from you!

Thai food ranks among the most popular cuisines worldwide. Why? 

Well, authentic Thai food is very appealing in terms of taste, smell, and appearance. In fact, most dishes are colorful and presented with an artistic flair. And if you come to Thailand, you might be surprised to learn that you can find food, snacks, and drinks 24/7—and not just in convenience stores!

Because a country’s food is a major component of its culture, trying Thai food is a special experience for foreigners who visit Thailand.

In this article, we’ll present you with tons of practical Thai cuisine information. This includes…

• …the top five Thai foods to try in restaurants
• …several unique Thai foods only found in-country
• …a few foods you may question are actually Thai
• …practical food-related vocabulary

As a bonus, ThaiPod101.com will also give you some easy Thai food recipes you can make at home.

If you want more information on Thai cuisine, you can check out the following lessons on ThaiPod101.com:

• How Do You Eat This Thai Food?
• I Ate Too Much Thai Food
• Can You Eat Thai Food?

Table of Contents

1. 5 Must-Try Thai Dishes
2. Unique Thai Foods
3. Are These Food and Snack Items Thai?
4. Vocabulary for Food and the Restaurant
5. Bonus: Simple Thai Recipes
6. Conclusion

1. 5 Must-Try Thai Dishes

When visiting a Thai restaurant—whether in-country or abroad—it can be hard to know what Thai food to order. To help you out, we’ve handpicked five of the best Thai dishes you should definitely try! 

ส้มตำไทย (sôm-dtam-thai) – Papaya Salad

Ingredients:  

• มะละกอ (má-lá-gaaw) = papaya
• ถั่วฝักยาว (thùua-fàk-yaao) = cowpea
• มะเขือเทศ (má-khǔuea-thêet) = tomato
• ถั่วลิสง (thùua-lí-sǒng) = peanut
• กุ้งแห้ง (gûng-hâaeng) = dried shrimp
• พริก (phrík) = chili
• กระเทียม (grà-thiiam) = garlic
• น้ำตาลปี๊บ (nám-dtaan-bpiíp) = palm sugar
• มะนาว (má-naao) = lime
• น้ำปลา (nám-bplaa) = fish sauce

ส้มตำ (sôm-dtam) is an iconic Thai food, making it perfect for you to try as a language learner. 

ส้มตำไทย (sôm-dtam-thai) is just one type of ส้มตำ (sôm-dtam), and we recommend you try this one first if you’ve never had this before. There are other types that contain small raw crab and pickled fish sauce, but that may be a bit much for your first time. 

Basically, ส้มตำ (sôm-dtam) is raw vegetables mixed together with peanuts and dried shrimp. The vegetables offer a fresh taste and the dish has sweet, sour, and salty flavors. 

ผัดไทย (phàt-thai) – Thai-Style Fried Noodles

Ingredients:  

• เส้นจันทน์ (sên-jan) = a type of noodle
• เต้าหู้เหลือง (dtâo-hûu-lùueang) = yellow tofu
• กุยช่าย (gui-châai) = Chinese chive
• ถั่วงอก (thùua-ngâawk) = bean sprout
• หอมแดง (hǎawm-daaeng) = shallot
• กุ้งแห้ง (gûng-hâaeng) = dried shrimp
• ไช้โป๊ว (chái-bpóo) = salted turnip
• ถั่วลิสงบด (thùua-lí-sǒng-bòt) = crushed peanut
• ไข่ (khài) = egg
• น้ำมัน (nám-man) = cooking oil
• พริกป่น (phrík-bpòn) = chili powder
• กระเทียม (grà-thiiam) = garlic
• น้ำตาลปี๊บ (nám-dtaan-bpiíp) = palm sugar
• น้ำมะขามเปียก (nám-má-khǎam-bpìiak) = tamarind juice
• น้ำปลา (nám-bplaa) = fish sauce

If you were to speak of a noodle dish in Japan, it would be Ramen. But Thailand’s famous noodle dish is ผัดไทย (phàt-thai).

Here’s some Thai food history for you: During World War II, the Thai leader Plaek Phibunsongkhram wanted to create a sense of nationalism in the country. He did this by encouraging people to create a unique Thai dish, which turned out to be ผัดไทย (phàt-thai).  

This has become one of the most popular Thai cuisine dishes among native Thai people and foreigners alike. It  tastes sweet and sour, and the noodle itself is pretty chewy. 

แกงเขียวหวาน (gaaeng-khǐiao-wǎan) – Green Curry

Ingredients:  

• พริกแกงเขียวหวาน (phrík-gaaeng-khǐiao-wǎan) = green curry paste
• ไก่ (gài) = chicken
• มะเขือเปราะ (má-khǔuea-bpràw) = green brinjal
• มะเขือพวง (má-khǔuea-phuuang) = turkey berry
• พริกชี้ฟ้า (phrík-chíi-fáa) = cayenne pepper
• ใบมะกรูด (bai-má-grùut) = leaf of kaffir lime
• ใบโหระพา (bai-hǒo-rá-phaa) = basil
• กะทิ (gà-thí) = coconut milk
• น้ำตาลปี๊บ (nám-dtaan-bpiíp) = palm sugar
• น้ำปลา (nám-bplaa) = fish sauce

There are various types of curry in Thailand, and แกงเขียวหวาน (gaaeng-khǐiao-wǎan) is one of the most popular.  

It’s a main dish often served with rice or rice noodles. In some recipes, chicken is substituted with other protein sources such as fish or beef. Despite having the word หวาน (wǎan), or “sweet,” in its name, แกงเขียวหวาน (gaaeng-khǐiao-wǎan) does not taste sweet. It’s also not as spicy as other curries, which is why we recommend it to foreigners.

ต้มข่าไก่ (dtôm-khàa-gài) – Chicken in Coconut Milk Soup

Ingredients: 

• พริกแกงเขียวหวาน (phrík-gaaeng-khǐiao-wǎan) = green curry paste
• ไก่ (gài) = chicken
• เห็ดฟาง (hèd-faang) = straw mushroom
• พริกชี้ฟ้า (phrík-chíi-fáa) = cayenne pepper
• ข่า (khàa) = galangal
• ตะไคร้ (dtà-khrái) = lemon grass
• ใบมะกรูด (bai-má-grùut) = leaf of kaffir lime
• น้ำซุปไก่ (nám-súp-gài) = chicken broth
• กะทิ (gà-thí) = coconut milk
• มะนาว (má-naao) = lime
• น้ำปลา (nám-bplaa) = fish sauce

Another great choice for foreigners is ต้มข่าไก่ (dtôm-khàa-gài). It’s similar to ต้มยำ (dtôm-yam) but has a smoother taste and is less spicy, making it perfect for those who can’t handle spicy foods. It also tastes lighter and healthier than curry. During the vegetarian season, you can find a vegan version of this dish as well.

หมูสะเต๊ะ (mǔu-sà-dté) – Grilled Pork Stick with Turmeric

Ingredients:  

• พริกแกงเขียวหวาน (phrík-gaaeng-khǐiao-wǎan) = green curry paste
• หมู (mǔu) = pork
• กระเทียม (grà-thiiam) = garlic
• ผงขมิ้น (phǒng-khà-mîn) = turmeric powder
• ผงยี่หร่า (phǒng-yîi-hràa) = cumin powder
• ผงกะหรี่ (phǒng-gà-hrìi) = curry powder
• เมล็ดผักชี (mà-lét-phàk-chii) = coriander seeds
• น้ำตาลทราย (nám-dtaan-sai) = sugar
• กะทิ (gà-thí) = coconut milk
• นมสด (nom-sòt) = milk

One of the most popular Thai street foods you should try is หมูสะเต๊ะ (mǔu-sà-dté). 

This is a chewy, salty appetizer served with a savory, nutty dipping sauce. The most common protein for this snack is pork, but you can sometimes find chicken or lamb as well. Thai people eat หมูสะเต๊ะ (mǔu-sà-dté) with toast.

2. Unique Thai Foods

In this section, we’ll present you with some unique Thai foods and desserts. You may find some of the food combinations weird, but they taste really good!

ข้าวแช่

The weather in Thailand is hot all year. Some people even joke that Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. To cope with the weather in summer, Thai people created ข้าวแช่ (khâao-châae).  

This dish consists of cooked rice soaked in flower-scented water. It’s eaten with various side dishes, such as shredded pork, salted turnip fried with egg, or stuffed bell peppers. It tastes very fresh and has a nice fragrance. You can find this cuisine item in Thai restaurants during the summer. 

น้ำจิ้มซีฟู้ด

น้ำจิ้มซีฟู้ด (nám-jîm-sii-fúut) is a special dipping sauce. There are various recipes for this dipping sauce, but it’s typically made with chili, garlic, coriander root, fish sauce, lime juice, and salt. Originally, Thai people dipped seafood in it. But today, it’s currently served with various foods, such as hot pot, crab fried rice, and steamed fish ball. 

ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง

ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง (khâao-nǐiao-má-mûuang) is a famous Thai dessert. Thai people eat this sweet and salty rice with ripe mango (and sometimes durian) topped with coconut milk. You can find this Thai dessert in summer, which is mango season.  

Some foreigners may find it weird to eat rice with fruit, but the flavor of sticky rice goes well with ripe mango and coconut milk. However, we have to warn you that this isn’t a very healthy Thai food, so you shouldn’t eat it too often.

3. Are These Food and Snack Items Thai?

Thai people are very open-minded when it comes to food. If you visit Thailand, you’ll see that there are various dishes, snacks, and desserts influenced by foreign food. Some of them have been adapted to suit Thai tastes and preferences. 

If you were to find these Thai food names on a menu, you might wonder if they’re really Thai! Let’s take a closer look.

ขนมโตเกียว

ขนมโตเกียว (khà-nǒm-dtoo-giiao) is a popular Thai snack. It’s a pancake roll with various savory and sweet fillings, such as ham, sausage, egg, taro paste, and custard. 

The name of this snack breaks down into two words: 

• ขนม (khà-nǒm) – snack
• โตเกียว (dtoo-giiao) – the name of a city in Japan

Because of its name, many people mistakenly think that this snack was influenced by Japanese cuisine.

The origin of ขนมโตเกียว (khà-nǒm-dtoo-giiao) is unclear. Some say it was influenced by a Japanese dessert called Dorayaki, while most people believe this snack was first sold in the first Japanese department store in Thailand: Daimaru. However, it was created by Thai people and named ขนมโตเกียว (khà-nǒm-dtoo-giiao) to make it sound Japanese.

ลอดช่องสิงคโปร์

ลอดช่องสิงคโปร์ (lâawt-châawng-sǐng-khà-bphoo) is a Thai snack made with tapioca flour and sweet coconut milk. 

This is another food item with a rather confusing name. Its two parts break down as:

• ลอดช่อง (lâawt-châawng) – the name of a similar Thai dessert
• สิงคโปร์ (sǐng-khà-bphoo) – Singapore

ลอดช่องสิงคโปร์ (lâawt-châawng-sǐng-khà-bphoo) is not a dessert imported from Singapore. It was created by a restaurant called สิงคโปร์โภชนา (sǐng-khà-bphoo-phoo-chá-na), which is located in เยาวราช (yao-wá-râat), the famous Chinatown in Bangkok.

ข้าวผัดอเมริกัน

Are you seeing a trend here? Let’s break down the name of this confusing Thai dish:

• ข้าวผัด (khâao-phàat) – fried rice
• อเมริกัน (a-mee-rí-gan) – American

Despite having ‘American’ in its name, ข้าวผัดอเมริกัน (khâao-phàat-a-mee-rí-gan) was created by Thai people.  ข้าวผัดอเมริกัน (khâao-phàat-a-mee-rí-gan) is rice fried with ketchup, ham, sausage, fried egg, and salad. The dish is said to have been influenced by the American-style breakfast: toast, fried egg, ham, and sausage eaten with ketchup.  

กล้วยแขก

กล้วยแขก (glûuai-khàaek) is fried banana, and this snack dates back to the Ayutthaya Period.

The name of this dish breaks down to:

• กล้วย (glûuai) – banana
• แขก (khàaek) – Indian

Apart from referring to Indian people, แขก (khàaek) was traditionally used to mean “strange” or “foreign” as well. Fried banana is quite different from the other snacks of that time, so it was called กล้วยแขก to imply that it was a ‘strange’ dessert made from banana.

ขนมจีน

The name of our last confusing food item breaks down as:

• ขนม (khà-nǒm) – snack
• จีน (jiin) – China

Despite its name, ขนมจีน (khà-nǒm-jiin) is not a snack and it was not imported from or influenced by China. It’s actually “rice noodle,” a food influenced from Mon food called kha-naawm-jin.

Thai people eat ขนมจีน (khà-nǒm-jiin) with various savory foods, such as curry, ส้มตำ (sôm-dtam), noodles, and spicy salad.  

4. Vocabulary for Food and the Restaurant

Now you know all about the most popular Thai food dishes. That means you’re ready to learn some practical Thai vocabulary for talking about (and ordering) food. Let’s go!

A- Food-Related Vocabulary

We’ll start with some useful words about Thai food for beginners. 

Taste

• อร่อย (a-ràauy) = delicious
• จืด (jùuet) = plain
• เค็ม (khem) = salty
• หวาน (wǎan) = sweet
• เปรี้ยว (bprîiao) = sour
• ขม (khǒm) = bitter
• น่ากิน (nâa-gin) = looks tasty
• กลิ่นหอม (glìn-hǎawm) = smells good

To make any of these words negative, just put ไม่ (mâi) in front.

Ingredients

• หมู (mǔu) = pork
• ไก่ (gâi) = chicken
• เนื่อ (núuea) = beef
• ปลา (bplaa) = fish
• กุ้ง (gûng) = prawn
• ปลาหมึก (bplaa-mûek) = squid
• ผัก (phàk) = vegetable
• ผลไม้ (phǒn-lá-mái) = fruit
• สมุนไพร (sà-mǔn-phrai) = herb
• เครื่องเทศ (khrûueang-thêet) = spice

B- How to Order Food

Do you plan on visiting Thailand to sample some of these amazing dishes? Then you should know how to order at a Thai food restaurant!

Can I see the menu?

Thai sentence: ขอดูเมนูหน่อย
Thai pronunciation: khǎaw-duu-mee-nuu-nàauy

I want to order the food.

Thai sentence: สั่งอาหารหน่อย
Thai pronunciation:sàng-aa-hǎan-nàauy

I want to order the drink.

Thai sentence: สั่งเครื่องดื่มหน่อย
Thai pronunciation: sàng-khrûueang-dùuem-nàauy

I want ___.

Thai sentence: เอา + food name
Thai pronunciation: ao-___

Additional information:
If the menu has a picture by the item you want, you can say เอาอันนี้, which means “I want this one,” while pointing to the picture.

Is ___ spicy?

Thai sentence:  ___เผ็ดไหม
Thai pronunciation:  ___-phèt-mǎi

Please make it not spicy.

Thai sentence: เอาไม่เผ็ดเลย
Thai pronunciation: ao-mâi-phèt-looei

Please make it a little spicy.

Thai sentence: เอาเผ็ดนิดหน่อย
Thai pronunciation: ao-phèt-nít-nàauy

5. Bonus: Simple Thai Recipes 

For those who are interested in cooking Thai food, we’ve prepared a couple of easy Thai cuisine recipes you can make at home. The ingredients are quite simple and you won’t need any special equipment.

A- Thai-Style Omelet

Egg dishes are fairly simple to make, so we’ll start with a recipe for ไข่เจียว (khài-jiiao), or “omelet.” ไข่เจียว (khài-jiiao) is fried egg beaten into a round flat shape. The ingredients are simple and you can make it unique by adding your favorite ingredients.

Ingredients

• ไข่ (khài) = egg 
• น้ำปลา (nám-bplaa) = fish sauce 
• น้ำมัน (nám-man) = cooking oil

There are only three ingredients you need to make this Thai-style omelet, though you can also add other ingredients. For extra protein, you can add minced pork or crab, for example. Sometimes, Thai people also add vegetables such as onion, tomato, chilis, or spring onion to make it sweet and colorful.

How to Make

1. Beat 2 eggs and mix them with 1 tablespoon of fish sauce. If you want to add protein or vegetables, do so in this step.

2. Heat the oil in a pan until there is light smoke coming up. This is the secret to making the ไข่เจียว (khài-jiiao) a bit crispy and not too oily.

3. Pour the egg mixture into the pan.

4. Fry the egg until the bottom is set and has become golden brown. Once this happens, flip it.

5. Fry the other side of the ไข่เจียว (khài-jiiao) until it becomes golden brown. Then, it’s ready to be served with rice.

B- Hainanese Chicken Rice

This recipe is a little bit more advanced. There are more ingredients and steps, but people will be impressed if you can make it. To help you out, our recipe below is for Hainanese Chicken Rice cooked with the rice cooker.  

Ingredients

• ข้าว (khâao) = rice
• สะโพกไก่ (sà-phôok-gài) = chicken thigh
• น้ำมัน (nám-man) = cooking oil 
• กระเทียม (grà-thiiam) = garlic
• ขิง (khǐng) = ginger
• เกลือ (gluuea) = salt
• น้ำตาล (nám-thaan) = sugar
• น้ำซุปไก่ (nám-súp-gài) = chicken broth

How to Make 

1. Heat oil in the pan. Once hot, stir-fry 2 tablespoons of chopped garlic and 5 slices of ginger until they are aromatic.

2. After that, add 2 cups of rice and stir-fry until the rice becomes a little yellow.

3. Then, put everything from the pan into the rice cooker and add 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of salt, and 2.5 cups of chicken broth. Stir everything together.

4. Put the chicken into the rice cooker on top of the rice mixture, then push the “cook” button.

5. Wait until the rice cooker is done and then slice the chicken and put it on top of the rice, served with the dipping sauce.

Ingredients for Dipping Sauce

• เต้าเจี้ยว (dtâo-jîiao) = salt soybean
• ขิง (khǐng) = ginger
• พริก (phrík) = chili
• น้ำตาล (nám-dtaan) = sugar
• น้ำส้มสายชู (nám-sôm-sǎai-chuu) = vinegar
• ซิอิ้วหวาน (sì-íu-wǎan) = sweet dark soy sauce
• น้ำมะนาว (nám-má-naao) = lime juice

How to Make Dipping Sauce

1. Chop 4 tablespoons of ginger and 2 tablespoons of chili.

2. Mix 6 tablespoons of salt soybean, chopped ginger, chopped chili, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sweet dark soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of lime juice. And it’s done!

6. Conclusion

Are you hungry and already searching for your nearest Thai food restaurant? Please let us know what your favorite Thai food is, and which ones are totally new to you! 

We hope you learned a lot in this lesson and that we’ve inspired you to keep learning Thai. If you enjoyed this lesson, keep in mind that ThaiPod101.com has many more resources available to you. For example, you can check out our lesson on the Thai floating market or sneak a peek at our free vocabulary lists. 

Until next time, happy learning!

In many languages, หลักภาษา (lhàk-phaa-sǎa), or “grammar,” is one of the most difficult aspects to learn. Fortunately for you, Thai grammar is notorious for its relatively simple rules and structures when compared to other languages.

Still, if you’re thinking about learning Thai or have recently started, you may have several questions concerning Thai grammar: Are there a lot of Thai grammar rules? Should I learn the Thai alphabet and grammar together, or would it be too hard? On this page, you’ll get answers to all of your Thai grammar questions.

→ Keep in mind that if you want to explore this topic further, ThaiPod101.com has more resources for you: Introduction to Thai Grammar and Painless Thai Grammar. Check them out!

Table of Contents

1. Thai Grammar vs. English Grammar – The Basics
2. Parts of Speech
3. Unique Thai Grammar Concepts
4. Conclusion

1. Thai Grammar vs. English Grammar – The Basics

As you know, the grammar of any language is supported by several grammar rules that must be followed. To make matters worse, the vast majority of these rules have a number of exceptions that can only be learned through memorization. When combined, these two factors tend to make people nervous about studying another language’s grammar.  

However, as we mentioned a moment ago, you’re not going to have very many issues with this when studying Thai grammar. As a matter of fact, there are very few fixed rules in Thai grammar. Not only that, but the few rules that do exist are very easy to understand.

Since you’re reading this page, you’re most likely a native English speaker or someone who has been studying English a long time. In order to help you fully appreciate how easy it can be to master Thai grammar, we’ll be using English as a benchmark. 

Now, let’s look at two crucial grammar elements you should understand before continuing: Thai sentence structure and verb conjugation. 

→ Wondering how to learn Thai grammar effectively? See our video lesson on the 4 Ways to Improve Your Grammar!

1 – Sentence Structure

Like English, Thai expresses complete ideas (sentences) through the use of subjects, verbs, and objects. 

Both languages use the SVO (Subject + Verb + Object) structure for basic sentences:

• I (S) drink (V) coffee (O).

However, Thai people sometimes use OVS (Object + Verb + Subject), which is the passive form, when they want to focus on the object. 

• The glass (O) broke (V) I (S). 
  • I broke the glass.

See? There aren’t too many differences between the Thai and English sentence structure rules! 

2 – Verb Conjugation

In English, and many other languages, verbs need to be conjugated depending on factors such as tense, mood, number, and gender. 

Well, we have some more good news for you: There’s no verb conjugation in Thai grammar! Better yet, Thai doesn’t have tenses to begin with. In other words, there’s no need to worry about any of the factors you may be concerned with in English. Just use the verb as-is and include other words (such as time words) to add context as needed.

2. Parts of Speech

That was easy, right? Now let’s go into more detail about the different parts of speech in Thai, and how they compare to their English counterparts. 

1 – Nouns

คำนาม (kham-naam), or Thai nouns, are grammatically categorized into five types: 

• สามานยนาม (sǎa-maan-yá-naam)
• วิสามานยนาม (wí-sǎa-maan-yá-naam)
• สมุหนาม (sà-hmù-hà-naam)
• ลักษณะนาม (lák-sà-nà-naam)
• อาการนาม (aa-gaan-rá-naam)

You may be wondering if having these different types makes learning grammar hard. Not at all. There’s no need to be able to categorize the nouns as long as you can use them correctly.  

When compared to English nouns, those in Thai are far easier to get the hang of. This is because Thai grammar doesn’t have articles, use noun declension, or separate countable and uncountable nouns.

One thing you may need to get used to is that Thai nouns are used differently with adjectives than those in English are. Instead of using “adjective + noun” like English does, Thai uses “noun + adjective.”

→ If you want to expand your vocabulary, visit our video lesson on the Top 25 Thai Nouns!

2 – Pronouns 

คำสรรพนาม (kham-sàp-phá-nam), or Thai pronouns, are grammatically categorized into six types: 

• บุรุษสรรพนาม (bù-rùt-sàp-phá-naam)
• ประพันธสรรพนาม (bprà-phan-thá-sàp-phá-naam)
• นิยมสรรพนาม (ní-yá-má-sàp-phá-naam)
• อนิยมสรรพนาม (à-ní-yá-má-sàp-phá-naam)
• วิภาคสรรพนาม (wí-phâak-sàp- phá-naam)
• ปฤจฉาสรรพนาม (bprùet-chǎa-sàp-phá-naam)

Like with the noun categories, you don’t need to worry too much about memorizing these.  

One similarity between Thai and English grammar is that they both make use of personal pronouns. However, once you start learning Thai, you’ll see that Thai has more pronouns than English does. Still, they’re not too hard to remember!  

As for differences, you’ll notice that relative clauses and question words are considered pronouns in the Thai language. But does this make Thai grammar difficult? Not really, as the most important thing is that you know how to use them correctly.

→ Make sure to check out our vocabulary list of the Most Useful Thai Pronouns so you don’t get lost in the huge number of pronouns we have!

3 – Verbs 

คำกริยา (kham-gà-rí-yaa), or Thai verbs, are grammatically categorized into four types: 

• อกรรมกริยา (à-gam-gà-rí-yaa)
• สกรรมกริยา (sà-gam-gà-rí-yaa)
• วิกตรรถกริยา (wí-gà-dtàt-thà-gà-rí-yaa)
• กริยานุเคราะห์ (gà-rí-yaa-nú-khráw)

As you can guess, there’s no need to remember the name of each type or to know which verb belongs to which category. You just need to use them correctly, which is very easy to do.  

As mentioned before, Thai has no tense or verb conjugation. This means that you don’t have to worry about changing a verb’s form for tense, mood, number, or gender like you would in many other languages. 

Both Thai and English use auxiliary verbs, but they’re much simpler to use in Thai. The auxiliary verb is simply put in front of the verb, and that’s it. There’s no need to consider the subject or change the verb form. 

→ Verbs are an essential part of speech, so it’s important that you know the most common ones. See our lesson on the Top 25 Thai Verbs to get a head start!

4 – Adjectives and Adverbs 

In Thai grammar, adjectives and adverbs are treated differently than they are in English. Namely, Thai people don’t separate adverbs and adjectives, but view them as one grammar element called คำวิเศษณ์ (kham-ví-sèet). They’re categorized into ten types, which you don’t need to remember at all in order to use them correctly.

→ Do you want more information on this? Visit our lesson on Using Thai Adjectives!

3. Unique Thai Grammar Concepts

Not everything in Thai grammar is similar or comparable to English; there are certainly some unique Thai grammar rules, too. We’ll give you a few examples so that you get the idea.

1 – คำราชาศัพท์

Thai people use different words and phrases when speaking with the royal family or monks. This is an advanced Thai grammar component and it’s not very easy to learn—most Thai people don’t even use it correctly. It’s like you have to learn a new set of words. Here are some examples:

English meaning	Normal Thai word	Thai word for royal family	Thai word for monks
eat	กิน (gin)	เสวย (sà-wǒoei)	ฉัน (chǎn)
sick	ป่วย  (bpùuai)	ทรงพระประชวร (song-phrá-bprà-chuuan)	อาพาธ (aa-phâat)
food	อาหาร  (aa-hǎan)	พระกระยาหาร (phrá-grà-yaa-hǎan)	ภัตตาหาร (phát-dtaa-hǎan)

2 – A Special Type of Pronoun

In Thai, there’s a pronoun type called วิภาคสรรพนาม (wí-phâak-sàp-phá-naam). This type of pronoun is used with a group of nouns to show whether each component of that group performs the same action or not. 

For example, ทุกคนต่างช่วยกันทำงาน (thúk-khon-dtàang-chûuai-tham-ngaan) means “each of everyone is helping each other working,” or in other words, “everyone works together.”

There is no pronoun or word like this in English.  

3 – Numeric Classifiers

Numeric classifiers and quantifiers, or ลักษณะนาม (lák-sà-nà-naam), describe the physical characteristics of a noun. For example, in English you would say, “two bottles of milk” or “three pieces of cake.” The concept is similar to numerical classifiers in Thai language. 

4. Conclusion

By now, you should know that Thai language grammar isn’t that hard to learn. Why?  

To recap:

• Thai and English use the same SVO word order for basic sentences.
• Thai doesn’t have verb conjugation or verb tenses.
• Thai doesn’t take things like plurals or gender into consideration. 
• Thai doesn’t have noun declension.
• Thai doesn’t use articles with its nouns.

Are you interested yet? 

If you decide to continue learning Thai and want to know more about Thai grammar, don’t waste any time trying to find a good Thai grammar book. You’re already looking at the best option for learning Thai grammar: ThaiPod101.com! We provide our students with various lessons on the Thai language and culture, such as these: 

• The Top 5 Reasons to Study Thai
• The Top 5 Things You Need to Know About Thai Society
• Introduction to Thai Pronunciation

Of course, you can also click on any of the links we provided throughout the article to get more information on something we covered. 

So, what do you think? Do you find Thai grammar easy or pretty difficult so far? Let us know in the comments!

When learning a language, you’re bound to come across a word or phrase that truly impresses you. Language learning is about so much more than figuring out how to communicate; it’s also about discovering a culture that’s different from yours and becoming immersed in a new way of thinking.

Since you’re learning Thai, it makes sense to study Thai quotes. In addition to picking up some of the language, you can gain insight about Thai values and beliefs from these words of wit and wisdom. In particular, you’ll find that many Thai quotes are influenced by Buddhism, the country’s main religion. 

In this lesson, ThaiPod101.com will present you with a list of Thai quotes in English that you should know.  From Thai motivational quotes to popular proverbs, you’ll have a ton of inspiring words to reflect on by the time you get to the end!

Table of Contents

1. Thai Quotes About Work
2. Thai Quotes About Life
3. Thai Quotes About Time
4. Thai Quotes About Love
5. Thai Quotes About Friends and Family
6. Thai Quotes About Happiness
7. Thai Quotes About Language Learning
8. Conclusion

1. Thai Quotes About Work

Let’s start with Thai quotes about success and work. As work is an important part of our lives, understanding Thai views on the topic will be immensely helpful to you as a learner.

→ You may also want to see our lesson on Thai for the Workplace!

1. เลือกทำงานที่เรารัก และจะไม่มีวันไหนที่รู้สึกว่าต้องทำงานเลย

Pronunciation: lûueak-tham-ngaan-thîi-rao-rák láe-jà-mâi-mii-wan-nǎi-thîi-rǔu-sùek-wâa-dtâawng- tham-ngaan-looei

Meaning: Choose the work you love and there won’t be a day you feel you have to work.

Author: Confucius (Chinese philosopher)

2. งานทุกอย่างที่สุจริตเป็นงานที่มีเกียรติทั้งนั้น

Pronunciation: ngaan-thúk-yàang-thîi-sùt-jà-rìt-bpen-ngaan-thîi-mii-gìiat-tháng-nán

Meaning: All trustworthy jobs are honorable.

Author: Panya Nanthaphiku (famous Thai monk)

This quote aims to teach people that all jobs are honorable, as long as they are legal and not immoral. You shouldn’t be ashamed of your job, for example, if it doesn’t pay well or is a labor job—at least you’re working!

3. งานที่เราชอบจะทำให้เราชอบทำงาน 

Pronunciation: ngaan-thîi-rao-châawp-jà-tham-hâi-rao-châawp-tham-ngaan

Meaning: The work you like makes you like to work.

Author: Wattana Weerayawattanon (singer and songwriter)

4. อย่าทำงานเพื่อเก็บเงินไปใช้ในห้อง “ไอ ซี ยู”

Pronunciation: yàa-tham-ngaan-phûuea-gèp-ngoen-bpai-chái-nai-hâawng-ai-sii-yuu

Meaning: Don’t work and save money to spend it later for ICU.

Author: Meethiwachirodom (famous Thai monk)

This quote teaches the importance of time management and health. Some people work too much to earn a lot of money. As a result, they fail to take care of their health and end up spending all of their savings on hospital bills when they’re older and not as healthy as they used to be.

2. Thai Quotes About Life

Are you feeling stuck or dissatisfied with your life? There are a number of Thai quotes about life that teach valuable lessons you can apply to your situation right away. (These are also Instagram-friendly!)

→ Learn how to talk about Life Events in our relevant lesson, and be prepared for any major occasion in Thailand.

5. ชีวิตคนเรา…แสนสั้นเกินกว่าจะทำให้ทุกคน…พอใจ… และเชื่อว่าไม่มีใครคนไหนทำได้ 

Pronunciation: chii-wít-khon-rao-sǎaen-sân-gooen-gwàa-jà-tham-hâi-thúk-khon-phaaw-jai láe- chûuea-wâa-mâi-mii-khrai-khon-nǎi-tham-dâi

Meaning: Life is too short to be lived in order to please everyone, and there is no one who is capable of it. 

Author: Kutto (singer)

6. บ่อยครั้ง เรามักเผลอเอาสายตาของคนอื่นมาเป็นเครื่องวัดคุณค่าของเรา 

Pronunciation: bàauy-khráng rao-mák-phlǒoe-ao-sǎai-dtaa-khǎawng-khon-ùuen-maa-bpen- khrûueang-wát-khun-khâa-khǎawng-rao

Meaning: We often inadvertently use others’ judgement to value ourselves.

Author: Phaisan Visalo (famous Thai monk)

7. ถ้าคุณไม่อาจควบคุมอารมณ์ที่เกิดขึ้นมา อารมณ์จะพิพากษาชีวิตคุณ 

Pronunciation: thâa-khun-mâi-àat-khûuap-khum-aa-rom-thîi-gòoet-khûen-maa aa-rom-jà-phí-phâak- sǎa-chii-vít-khun

Meaning: If you cannot control your emotions, they will judge your life.

Author: Jatupol Chomphunit (famous orator)

People can be irrational and act cruel when they’re angry, and end up hurting someone or having regrets about what they said. Just one action controlled by anger can ruin your life.

8. ทางไปสู่ความลำบากนั้น…ไปสบาย ทางไปสู่ความสบายนั้น…ไปลำบาก 

Pronunciation: thaang-bpai-sùu-khwaam-lam-bàak-nán-bpai-sà-bàai thaang-bpai-sùu-khwaam-sà- baai-nán-lam-bàak

Meaning: The road to hardship is comfort but the road to comfort is hard.

Author: Su Boonliang (artist)

To live your life comfortably, you have to study and work hard to be successful in work (and vice-versa).  

9. การหาความมั่นคงในชีวิต ก็เหมือนคาดหวังว่าดวงอาทิตย์จะอยู่บนฟ้าตลอดเวลา 

Pronunciation: gaan-hǎa-khwaam-mân-khong-nai-chii-vít gâaw-mǔuean-khâat-wǎng-wâa-duuang- aa-thít-jà-yùu-bon-fáa-dtà-làawt-wee-laa

Meaning: To find stability in life is like expecting the sun to always be in the sky.

Author: Win Liaowarin (writer)

Buddhism teaches that one should never become attached to things—whether it be money, assets, one’s reputation or honor, etc.—because you can lose everything in a moment. Stability in life is another thing that one can lose; it’s impossible for one’s life to always be stable.  

3. Thai Quotes About Time

Time is precious. Study these Thai quotes about time to gain insight into how Thai people view this phenomenon. 

→ Want to increase your vocabulary? See our lesson What Time Is It In Thailand? to learn some useful time-related phrases.

10. สายน้ำไม่ไหลย้อยกลับ 

Pronunciation: sǎai-nám-mâi-lǎi-yáawn-glàp

Meaning: The river has no return.

Author: quote from a song

11. อย่ามีชีวิต ชนิดที่เวลาผ่านมาแล้ว…มานึกเสียดายทีหลัง

Pronunciation: yàa-mii-chii-vít chá-nít-thîi-wee-laa-phâan-maa-láaeo maa-núek-sǐia-daai-thii-lǎng

Meaning: Don’t live your life in a way that you would regret when time passes.

Author: Wongthanong Chainarongsingh (founder of A Day magazine)

12. ระยะเวลา บอกแค่ว่าเรารู้จักกันนาน แต่ไม่ได้การันตีว่ารู้จักกันดี 

Pronunciation: rá-yá-wee-laa bàawk-wâa-rao-rúu-jàk-gàn-naan dtàae-mâi-dâi-gaa-ran-thii-wâa-rúu- jàk-gan-dii

Meaning: Time reflects that we have known each other for long, but doesn’t mean we know each other well.

Author: Napaporn Traiwitwareegul (DJ)

You can know someone for years and still not really know who they are as a person. 

13. การให้เวลา อาจมีค่ากว่าสิ่งของพิเศษ 

Pronunciation: gaan-hâi-wee-laa àat-mii-khâa-mâak-khwàa-sìng-khǎawng-phí-sèet

Meaning: Giving time is more precious than a special gift. 

Author: Round finger (writer)

14. เวลาและวารีไม่เคยคอยใคร 

Pronunciation: wee-laa-láe-waa-rii-mâi-khooei-raaw-khrai

Meaning: Time and tide wait for no man.

Author: Proverb

4. Thai Quotes About Love

Are you madly in love with someone? Or perhaps you’re a hopeless romantic? Either way, we think you’ll enjoy reading through these Thai love quotes with English translations!

→ If you want more, make sure to visit our vocabulary list of the Top 10 Thai Love Quotes!
→ Are you recovering after ending a relationship? Then see our list of Thai Breakup Quotes.

15. รักแลกด้วยรัก ไม่ได้แลกด้วยชีวิต 

Pronunciation: rák-lâaek-dûuai-rák mâi-dâi-lâaek-dûuai-chii-vít

Meaning: To get love, you give love, not life.

Author: Napaporn Traiwitwareegul (DJ)

This famous quote means that if you want someone to love you, give him or her your love, not everything in your life.

16. “อกหัก” เป็นเวลาที่ดีที่สุดที่จะพิสูจน์ว่า เรารักคนอื่นมากกว่ารักตัวเองหรือไม่ 

Pronunciation: òk-hàk-bpen-wee-laa-thîi-dii-thîi-sùt-thîi-jà-phí-sùut-wâa rao-rák-khon-ùuen-mâak- gwàa-rák-dtuua-eeng-rǔue-mâi

Meaning: “Being heartbroken” is the best time to prove whether you love others more than yourself or not.

Author: Win Liaowarin (writer)

17. บางครั้งสิ่งที่เลวร้ายกว่าการอกหัก …ก็คือการสมหวังได้แต่งงาน… แล้วไม่พบความสมหวังของชีวิตคู่ 

Pronunciation: baang-khráng-sìng-thîi-leeo-ráai-khwàa-gaan-òk-hàk gâaw-khuue-gaan-sǒm-wǎng- dâi-dtàaeng-ngaan láaeo-mâi-phóp-khwaam-sǒm-wǎng-khǎawng-chii-vít-khûu

Meaning: Sometimes, the thing that is worse than heartbreak is to get married as you hope for but not being happy in married life.

Author: Win Liaowarin (writer)

18. มันไม่ยากหรอกที่จะพูดคำว่ารัก แต่มันยากนักที่จะรักอย่างเข้าใจ 

Pronunciation: man-mâi-yâak-ràawk-thîi-jà-phûut-kham-wâa-rák dtàae-man-yâak-nák-thîi-jà-rák- yàang-khâo-jai

Meaning: It is not hard to confess love, but it is hard to love someone with comprehension.

Author: Mahasompong (famous Thai monk)

When you love someone, it’s easy to say so out loud. However, it is hard to love him or her with comprehension; to love is to support, not to intrude.  

19. อย่าวิ่งตามใครซักคนจนเราไม่เห็นคุณค่าของตัวเอง 

Pronunciation: yàa-wîng-dtaam-khrai-sák-khon-jon-rao-mâi-hěn-khun-khâa-khǎawng-dtuua-eeng

Meaning: Don’t chase someone to the point where you no longer see value in yourself. 

Author: Napaporn Traiwitwareegul (DJ)

When you love someone, you try hard to make him or her love you back. Sometimes, you try so hard to be the person they want that you no longer see good things in yourself.

5. Thai Quotes About Friends and Family

If you want to learn how friendship and family are perceived in Thai culture, these Thai quotes about family and friends are a great place to start.

→ For more great quotes, see our vocabulary list for the Top 10 Thai Quotes About Friendship!

20. อย่าแคร์คนอื่นมากกว่าครอบครัว อย่าตามใจตัวจนลืมว่าครอบครัวก็สำคัญ 

Pronunciation: yàa-khaae-khon-ùuen-mâak-gwàa-khrâawp-khruua yàa-dtaam-jai-dtuua-jon-luuem- wâa-khrâawp-khruua-gâaw-sǎm-khan

Meaning: Don’t care about others more than your family and don’t be self-indulgent to the point where you forget that family is also important.

Author: Mahasompong (famous Thai monk)

21. นับเพื่อน อย่านับตอนดี ๆ นับตอนที่ชีวิตกำลังแย่ กำลังตกต่ำ นั่นแหละเพื่อนแท้ 

Pronunciation: náp-phûuen yàa-náp-dtaawn-dii-dii náp-dtaawn-thîi-chii-vít-gam-lang-yâae gam-lang-dtòk-dtàm nân-làae-phûuen-tháae

Meaning: Don’t count the number of friends when your life is good. You will know the number of your true friends when your life is at its worst. 

Author: Kutto (singer)

22. เพื่อนที่ไม่ยอมหรือไม่อาจตักเตือนเพื่อน ก็ต้องถือว่าหมดความเป็นเพื่อนเสียแล้ว 

Pronunciation: phûuen-thîi-mâi-yaawm-rǔue-mâi-àat-dtàk-dtuuen-phûuen gâaw-dtâawng-thǔue- wâa-mòt-khwaam-bpen-phûuen-sǐia-láaeo

Meaning: A friend who doesn’t or cannot give you criticism is no longer your friend.

Author: Phuthathatphiku (famous Thai monk) 

To be friends with someone, you must have good intentions toward them. Thus, friends must be able to tell each other if they do wrong and keep each other accountable for their actions.

23. เพื่อนกินหาง่าย เพื่อนตายหายาก 

Pronunciation: phûuen-gin-hǎa-ngâai phûuen-dtaai-hǎa-yâak

Meaning: A faithful friend is hard to find.

Author: Proverb

24. เลือดข้นกว่าน้ำ 

Pronunciation: lôoet-khôn-gwàa-nám

Meaning: Blood is thicker than water.

Author: Proverb

6. Thai Quotes About Happiness

Everyone wants to be happy, but not everyone is happy nowadays. We hope that these quotes help you find happiness in life.

→ Express yourself like a native speaker by learning the Top 20 Words for Positive Emotions!

25. ที่สุดของคน คือ การเป็นคนธรรมดาที่มีความสุข 

Pronunciation: thîi-sùt-khǎawng-khon khuue-gaan-bpen-khon-tham-má-daa-thîi-mii-khwaam-sùk

Meaning: The best thing a man can ask for is to be a normal person who is happy.

Author: Meethiwachirodom (famous Thai monk)

26. อย่ามองหาสิ่งที่ขาด จนพลาดที่จะมีความสุขกับสิ่งที่มี 

Pronunciation: yàa-maawng-hǎa-sìng-thîi-khàat jon-plâat-thîi-jà-mii-khwaam-sùk-gàp-sìng-thîi-mii

Meaning: Don’t try to achieve things you don’t have to the point you fail to be happy with what you have.

Author: Saithip Montrigul Na Ayudhya (DJ)

Sometimes, you only see the things that you don’t have and try hard to get them. In doing so, you fail to enjoy the things you already have. For example, you want to be the most successful businessman, so you work so hard that you no longer have time for your family.

27. อย่าหยุดตัวเองไว้กับความทุกข์ คุณมีสิทธิที่จะมีความสุขไม่น้อยกว่าคนอื่น 

Pronunciation: yàa-yhùt-dtuua-eeng-wái-gàp-khwaam-thúk khun-mii-sìt-thîi-jà-mii-khwaam-sùk-mâi- náauy-gwàa-khon-ùuen

Meaning: Don’t drown yourself in sadness, you have the right to be happy as much as everybody.

Author: Meethiwachirodom (famous Thai monk)

7. Thai Quotes About Language Learning

To close, let’s look at a couple of inspirational Thai quotes from language teachers about language learning! 

28. ภาษาคือการสื่อสารกันและกัน ตราบใดที่สื่อสารกันแล้วรู้เรื่อง นั่นก็ยอดเยี่ยมแล้ว 

Pronunciation: phaa-sǎa-khuue-gaan-sùue-sǎan-gan-láe-gan dtràap-dai-thîi-sùue-sǎan-gan-láaeo- rúu-rûueang nân-gâaw-yàawt-yìiam-láaeo

Meaning: Language is about communication. As long as it’s understandable, that’s great.

Author: Khanatip Sunthornrak (famous English teacher)

This quote teaches that when you learn a new language, you shouldn’t worry too much about all of the details (such as grammar or accents) as it discourages you from speaking. Instead, do your best to communicate; as long as the other parties understand, that is already a success.

29. การเรียนไม่ใช่เรื่องยาก ถ้ามองอุปสรรคเห็น และทำลายอุปสรรคเป็น 

Pronunciation: gaan-riian-mâi-châi-rûueang-yâak thâa-maawng-ùp-bphà-sàk-hěn láe-tham-laai-ùp- bphà-sàk-bpen

Meaning: Learning is not hard if you know the obstacle and how to overcome it.

Author: Somsri Thammasansophon (famous English teacher)

When you learn a new language, there will be areas that you excel in and others you’re not as good at. All you need to do is focus on your weaknesses and find a good learning method to help you overcome them.

8. Conclusion

Do you feel inspired and motivated after reading all of these Thai quotes and proverbs? Does your native language have similar quotes? Share with us in the comments below.

Learning Thai quotes can be a little difficult if you don’t know much vocabulary. That said, it is a good way to familiarize yourself with the Thai language and culture. Keep practicing! 

When you feel ready to move forward, ThaiPod101.com has many more useful lessons for you, such as words about sickness or taking a trip to Tiger Temple.

Happy learning!

Why are you learning Thai?  

One of the most common reasons people learn the language is that they’re doing business in Thailand or with Thai people. This makes a lot of sense, because knowing at least the most common business phrases in Thai is an advantage in the workplace. 

In this lesson, you’ll learn all of the Thai business phrases you need to get started, as well as the grammar behind them. In addition, we’ll provide you with a list of business terms you should know, categorized by what kind of situation you’d hear them in. 

Improve your Thai business language today!

Table of Contents

1. Getting Started
2. Thai Business Phrases for a Job Interview
3. Thai Business Phrases for Coworker Interaction
4. Phrases for a Thai Business Meeting
5. Thai Business Phrases for Phone Calls and Emails
6. Thai Business Phrases for a Business Trip
7. Conclusion

1. Getting Started

Before we get into Thai business words and their meanings in English, you should know how to speak formally with others in a business setting.

1- Formal Thai Pronouns

Below is a list of Thai pronouns you’re likely to use in Thailand business settings, so we advise you to memorize them before you try learning any other Thai business words or phrases.

• ผม (phǒm) – “I” [masculine]
• ดิฉัน (dì-chǎn) and ฉัน (chǎn) – “I” [feminine]
• คุณ (khun) – “You”

2- Khráp and Khâ

To make a sentence sound formal in Thai, put the word ครับ (khráp) or ค่ะ (khà) 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. 

2. Thai Business Phrases for a Job Interview

The first step in beginning your career is the job interview. As such, it’s to your advantage that you leave a nice first impression on your interviewer. Here are some common Thai business phrases you should know before your interview. 

1- Phrases Your Interviewer May Use

Hello.

• In Thai: สวัสดี 
• Pronunciation: sà-wàt-dii

While saying สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dii), it is best to do the action called ไหว้ (whâi), which is a Thai way of greeting.

Please have a seat.

• In Thai: เชิญนั่ง 
• Pronunciation: chooen-nâng

In Thai culture, it’s best to wait for your interviewer to ask you to sit down before you do so.

Please turn off your phone.

• In Thai: กรุณาปิดโทรศัพท์มือถือด้วย 
• Pronunciation: gà-rú-naa-bpìt-thoo-rá-sàp-muue-thǔue-dúuai

An interviewer will normally ask you to turn off your phone. If your phone rings during the interview, it may leave a bad impression on your interviewer, so it is proper Thai business etiquette to turn it off right away. 

However, if there’s any reason you can’t turn it off, you can tell the interviewer: ไม่สะดวกปิดโทรศัพท์ เพราะ___ ต้องขอโทษด้วย (mâi-sà-dùuak-bpìt-thoo-rá-sàp práw–___ dtâawng-khǎaw-thôot-dûuai), which means “I can’t turn off the phone because ___, I’m sorry.”

Please introduce yourself.

• In Thai: กรุณาแนะนำตัว 
• Pronunciation: gà-rú-naa-náe-nam-dtuua

What is your strength and weakness?

• In Thai: ข้อดีและข้อเสียของคุณคืออะไร 
• Pronunciation: khâaw-dii-láe-khâaw-sǐia-khǎawng-khun-khuue-à-rai

Do you have any questions?

• In Thai: มีคำถามอะไรจะถามมั้ย 
• Pronunciation: mii-kham-thǎam-à-rai-jà-thǎam-mái

2- List of Phrases You May Use

My name is ___.

• In Thai: ผม / ดิฉันชื่อ ___ 
• Pronunciation: phǒm / dì-chǎn-chûue-___

I graduated from ___ University in the faculty of ___, majoring in ___.

• In Thai: ผม / ดิฉันเรียนจบจากมหาวิทยาลัย___คณะ___ สาขา___ 
• Pronunciation: phǒm / dì-chǎn-riian-jòp-jàak-má-hǎa-wít-thá-yaa-lai-___-khá-ná-___-sǎa-khǎa-___

In the first blank, put the name of your university; in the second blank, put the name of the faculty; and in the third blank, put the name of your major.

I have experience in ___ for ___ years.

• In Thai: ผม / ดิฉันมีประสบการณ์ในสายงาน ___ ทั้งหมด ___ ปี 
• Pronunciation: phǒm / dì-chǎn-mii-bprà-sòp-gaan-nai-sǎai-ngaan-___-tháng-mòt-___-bpii

In the first blank, put your field of experience; in the second blank, put the number of years you’ve been in that field.

My responsibility is ___.

• In Thai: หน้าที่ของผม / ดิฉัน คือ ___
• Pronunciation: nâa-thîi-khǎawng-phǒm / dì-chǎn-khuue-___

My strength is ___.

• In Thai: ข้อดีของผม / ดิฉัน คือ ___
• Pronunciation: khâaw-dii-khǎawng-phǒm / dì-chǎn-khuue-___

My weakness is ___.

• In Thai: ข้อเสียของผม / ดิฉัน คือ ___
• Pronunciation: khâaw-sǐia-khǎawng-phǒm / dì-chǎn-khuue-___

Please repeat the question again.

• In Thai: ช่วยทวนคำถามได้มั้ย
• Pronunciation: chûuai-thuuan-kham-thǎam-dâi-mái

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be interviewed.

• In Thai: ขอบคุณที่ให้โอกาสมาสัมภาษณ์งาน
• Pronunciation: khàawp-khun-thîi-hâi-oo-gàat-maa-sǎm-phâat-ngaan

3. Thai Business Phrases for Coworker Interaction

When doing business with Thai people, knowing business Thai vocabulary isn’t enough. You should also know how to communicate with your coworkers at both the business level and the social level. Here are some phrases you may find helpful.

1- Business Introductions

Self-introduction for males

• สวัสดีครับ ผมชื่อ___เป็นพนักงานใหม่อยู่แผนก___ครับ
• sà-wàt-dii-khráp phǒm-chûue-___-bpen-phá-nák-ngaan-mài-yùu-phá-nàaek-___-khráp
• “Hello, my name is____. I’m a new employee in ___ Department.”

In the first blank, put your name; in the second blank, put your department. 

Self-introduction for females

• สวัสดีค่ะ ดิฉันชื่อ___เป็นพนักงานใหม่อยู่แผนก___ค่ะ
• sà-wàt-dii-khà dì-chǎn-chûue-___-bpen-phá-nák-ngaan-mài-yùu-phá-nàaek-___-khà
• “Hello, my name is ___. I’m a new employee in ___ Department.”

Giving phone numbers and email

• นี่คือเบอร์โทรและอีเมลของผม / ฉัน
• nîi-khuue-booe-thoo-láe-ii-meeo-khǎawng-phǒm / chǎn
• “This is my phone number and email.”

2- Business Performance Evaluations

Compliments about work performance

• คุณทำดีมาก
• khun-tham-dii-mâak
• “You did a great job.”

• ผลงานของคุณดีมาก
• phǒn-ngaan-khǎawng-khun-dii-mâak
• “Your performance is very good.”

• อันนี้ใช้ได้แล้ว
• an-níi-chái-dâi-láaeo
• “This one is okay.”

Feedback about work performance

• อันนี้ไม่ผ่านนะ ไปแก้มาใหม่
• an-níi-mâi-phàan-ná bpai-gâae-maa-mài
• “This one needs to be fixed.”

• ช่วงนี้คุณทำงานไม่ค่อยดีเท่าไหร่ มีปัญหาอะไรรึเปล่า
• chûuang-níi-khun-tham-ngaan-mâi-khâauy-dii-thâo-rài mii-bpan-hǎa-à-rai-rúe-bplào
• “You are not doing well recently. Are there any problems?”

3- Phrases for Other Business Situations

Asking for help

• ช่วยดูตรงนี้ให้หน่อยได้มั้ย
• chûuai-duu-dtrong-níi-hâi-nàauy-dâi-mái
• “Could you please take a look at this?”

• ขอคำแนะนำเรื่อง___หน่อย
• khǎaw-kham-náe-nam-rûueang-___-nàauy
• “Please give me advice about___.”

Thank you

• ขอบคุณ
• khàawp-khun
• “Thank you.”

Sorry

• ขอโทษ
• khǎaw-thôot
• “Sorry.”

4. Phrases for a Thai Business Meeting

Let’s go over some important phrases for Thai business meetings. If you’ve spent any time in the business world, you know that meetings are an essential aspect of any job. Knowing the most common phrases and implementing proper Thai business meeting etiquette will give you a huge advantage. 

Let’s start the meeting.

• In Thai: ขอเริ่มการประชุม
• Pronunciation: khǎaw-rôoem-gaan-bprà-chum

Do you have any questions?

• In Thai: มีคำถามอะไรมั้ย
• Pronunciation: mii-kham-thǎam-à-rai-mái

Do you have any comments?

• In Thai: มีความเห็นอะไรมั้ย
• Pronunciation:mii-khwaam-hěn-à-rai-mái

I agree.

• In Thai: ผม / ดิฉันเห็นด้วย
• Pronunciation: phǒm / dì-chǎn-hěn-dûuai

I disagree.

• In Thai: ผม / ดิฉันไม่เห็นด้วย
• Pronunciation: phǒm / dì-chǎn-mâi-hěn-dûuai

What do you think about this?

• In Thai: คุณมีความเห็นอย่างไรเกี่ยวกับเรื่องนี้
• Pronunciation: khun-mii-khwaam-hěn-yàang-rai-gìiao-gàp-rûueang-níi

I think ___.

• In Thai: ผม / ดิฉันคิดว่า___
• Pronunciation: phǒm / dì-chǎn-khít-wâa

I want more information about ___.

• In Thai: ผม / ดิฉันขอข้อมูลเพิ่มเติมเกี่ยวกับ___
• Pronunciation: phǒm / dì-chǎn-khǎaw-khâaw-muun-gìiao-gàp-___

If we agree to this, will there be any problem?

• In Thai: ถ้าเราตกลงตามนี้ จะมีปัญหาอะไรมั้ย
• Pronunciation: thâa-rao-dtòk-long-dtaam-ní jà-mii-bpan-hǎa-à-rai-mái

If we agree to buy from you, what is your offer?

• In Thai: ถ้าเราตกลงซื้อจากคุณ คุณมีข้อเสนออะไรให้เราบ้าง
• Pronunciation: thâa-rao-dtòk-long-súue-jàak-khun khun-mii-khâaw-sà-nǒoe-à-rai-hâi-rao-bâang

Any discount?

• In Thai: มีส่วนลดมั้ย
• Pronunciation: mii-sùuan-lót-mái

I have a special offer.

• In Thai: ผม / ดิฉันมีข้อเสนอพิเศษ
• Pronunciation: phǒm / dì-chǎn-mii-khâaw-sà-nǒoe-phí-sèet

5. Thai Business Phrases for Phone Calls and Emails

If you’re doing business in Thailand, being able to communicate via phone and email is pretty important. Below are some words and phrases you’ll find useful.

1- Phrases for Phone Calls

Hello, this is ___. Whom do you want to speak to?

• In Thai: สวัสดี ที่นี่___ ต้องการติดต่อใคร
• Pronunciation: sà-wàt-dii thîi-níi-___ dtâawng-gaan-dtìt-dtàaw-khrai-khá

As a staff member of a company, this is the phrase you use to answer the phone.

Hello, I want to talk to ___.

• In Thai: สวัสดี ขอเรียนสาย___
• Pronunciation: sà-wàt-dii khǎaw-riian-sǎai___

You say this when you call someone in a company whom you don’t have direct contact with.

Hello, my name is ___. I’m calling from ___. [name of company]

• In Thai: สวัสดี ผม / ดิฉันชื่อ… ติดต่อมาจาก___
• Pronunciation: sà-wàt-dii phom / di-chan-chûue-___ dtìt-dtàaw-maa-jàak-___

This is another phrase you can use when calling someone. This one is a little more formal than the one above. It’s often used when the party you’re calling doesn’t know you.

Please wait for a moment, I will transfer you.

• In Thai: เดี๋ยวจะโอนสายให้ รบกวนถือสายรอซักครู่
• Pronunciation: dǐiao-jà-oon-sǎai-hâi róp-guuan-thǔue-sǎai-raaw-sák-khrûu

Now ___ isn’t available. Will you leave a message or give him/her a phone number to call back?

• In Thai: ตอนนี้คุณ___ไม่สะดวกรับสาย จะฝากข้อความหรือเบอร์ติดต่อกลับไว้มั้ย
• Pronunciation: dtaawn-níi-khun-___-mâi-sà-dùuak-ráp-sǎai jà-fâak-khâaw-khwaam-rǔue-booe- thoo-dtìt-dtàaw-glàp-wái-mái

That is okay. I will call again.

• In Thai: ไม่เป็นไร เดี๋ยวจะติดต่อมาใหม่
• Pronunciation: mâi-bpen-rai dǐiao-jà-dtìt-dtàaw-maa-mài

Phrase for ending a phone call

• In Thai: แค่นี้นะ สวัสดี
• Pronunciation: khâae-níi-ná sà-wàt-dii

2- Phrases for Email

Dear ___,

• In Thai: เรียน
• Pronunciation: riian

Please be informed accordingly

• In Thai: จึงเรียนมาเพื่อทราบ
• Pronunciation: jueng-riian-maa-phûuea-sâap

Best Regards,

• In Thai: ขอแสดงความนับถือ
• Pronunciation: khǎaw-sà-daaeng-khwaam-náp-thǔue

6. Thai Business Phrases for a Business Trip

Our final category is Thai phrases for business trips. If you travel a lot, you should remember these.

1- Making a Reservation

I want to book a one-way trip / round trip ___ [vehicle] ticket to ___ [place].

• In Thai: ผม / ฉันต้องการจองตั๋ว ___ [vehicle] แบบเที่ยวเดียว / ไปกลับ ไปที่___ [place]
• Pronunciation: phǒm / chǎn-dtâawng-gaan-jaawng-dtǔua-___-bàaep-thîiao-diiao / bpai-glàp -bpai-thîi-___

เที่ยวเดียว (thîiao-diiao) means “one-way trip,” while ไปกลับ (bpai-glàp) means “round trip.” 

I want to book a room for ___ people.

• In Thai: ผม / ฉันต้องการจองห้องพักสำหรับ ___ คน
• Pronunciation: phǒm / chǎn-dtâawng-gaan-jaawng-hâawng-phák-sǎm-ràp-___-khon

Which date do you want to check in?

• In Thai: ลูกค้าต้องการเข้าพักวันไหนคะ
• Pronunciation: lûuk-kháa-dtâawng-gaan-khâo-phák-wan-nǎi-khá

ลูกค้า (lûuk-kháa) means “customer” in Thai. Instead of using “you,” hotel staff often use ลูกค้า (lûuk-kháa) to refer to their customer.

How long do you want to stay?

• In Thai: ลูกค้าต้องการพักกี่คืน
• Pronunciation: lûuk-kháa-dtâawng-gaan-phák-gìi-khuuen

Any promotion or discount?

• In Thai: มีโปรโมชั่นหรือส่วนลดอะไรมั้ย
• Pronunciation: mii-bproo-moo-chân-rǔue-sùuan-lót-à-rai-mái

2- Your Stay in the Hotel

I want to check in. I already made a reservation.

• In Thai: ผม / ดิฉันต้องการเช็คอิน จองห้องไว้แล้ว
• Pronunciation: phǒm / dì-chǎn-dtâawng-gaan-chék-in jaawng-hâawng-wái-láaeo

There’s no Thai word for “check in.” Thai people use the same word as in English.

Your room is on ___ floor, number ___.

• In Thai: ห้องพักของลูกค้าอยู่ชั้น ___ [floor number] ห้อง ___ [room number]
• Pronunciation: hâawng-phák-khǎawng-lûuk-kháa-yùu-chán-___-hâawng-___

Here is a key and breakfast coupon.

• In Thai: นี่คือกุญแจและคูปองอาหารเช้า
• Pronunciation: nîi-khuue-gun-jaae-láe-khuu-bpaawng-aa-hǎan-cháo

I want to check out.

• In Thai: ผม / ดิฉันต้องการเช็คเอาท์
• Pronunciation: phǒm / dì-chǎn-dtâawng-gaan-chék-áo

There is no Thai word for “check out.” Thai people use the same word as in English.

2- More Useful Phrases

Where should we meet?

• In Thai: เราจะเจอกันที่ไหนดี
• Pronunciation: rao-jà-jooe-gan-thîi-nǎi-dii

When should we meet?

• In Thai: เราจะเจอกันกี่โมง
• Pronunciation: rao-jà-jooe-gan-gìi-moong

I will pick ___ up from the ___ at ___.

• In Thai: ผม / ฉันจะไปรับ ___ [person] ที่ ___ [place] ตอน ___ [time]
• Pronunciation: phǒm / chǎn-jà-bpai-ráp-___-thîi-___-dtaawn-___

Thank you for this trip.

• In Thai: ขอบคุณสำหรับทริปนี้
• Pronunciation: khàawp-khun-sǎm-ràp-tríp-níi

7. Conclusion

How do you feel after going over all of these Thai business phrases? Are you more confident in your business communication skills? Let us know in the comments below.

If you want to learn more-specific terms, words, or phrases than the ones we covered here, check out our other lessons on ThaiPod101.com. Here are some lessons you may be interested in: 

• On the Phone
• Checking in at a Hotel in Thai
• Thai Self-Introductions

Happy Thai learning, and good luck with your business endeavors!

We think it’s safe to say that everyone has been guilty of spending hours upon hours on YouTube, going from one video to the next. Video is the most popular content format nowadays, and it’s so easy to become addicted…  

So why not learn the Thai language on YouTube? If you’re like many people, you simply don’t know where to start—or if it’s even possible.

We’re here to tell you that you can actually learn Thai online for free on YouTube. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the top Thai YouTube channels for learners, so you’ll know exactly where to start. We’ve provided some great channels in a variety of categories, so that you’ll definitely be able to find something you’re interested in. 

One of the best options is the ThaiPod101 YouTube channel, and we’ll give you more details about this later.  But first, here are our top Thai YouTube picks!

Table of Contents

1. Hot Thai Kitchen
2. Mark Weins
3. GMM International
4. VoBrain
5. Peachii
6. Loukgolf’s English Room
7. Itchy feet ภาษาอังกฤษติดเที่ยว
8. GMM TV
9. ครูโอ๋ สื่อการเรียนการสอน (khruu-ǒo-sùue-gaan-riian-gaan-sǎawn)
10. ThaiPod101
11. Conclusion

1. Hot Thai Kitchen

Category: Food
YouTube channel link: https://www.YouTube.com/user/PailinsKitchen/about
Level: Beginner

Do you like Thai food? Do you like to cook? If so, then this is the channel for you.  

Pailin is a Thai woman living in Canada and working as a professional chef. On her Thai cooking YouTube channel, she shares a lot of videos on how to cook a variety of traditional dishes. She speaks mostly in English, but she also teaches Thai vocabulary about food. Her videos make it easy for new learners to pick up simple vocabulary, as well as learn about Thai food and culture.  

Our only warning: Don’t watch her channel late at night, because you’ll get hungry!

Let’s cook Thai food together

2. Mark Weins

Category: Food
YouTube channel link: https://www.YouTube.com/user/migrationology/about
Level: Beginner

For the foodies and culture vultures, here’s another wonderful channel on YouTube. Thai food, travel, and cultural insight all make an appearance in Mark’s videos. To give you some context, Mark Wiens is an American who loves Thai food, and eventually married a Thai woman and moved to Thailand. 

His vlog videos are recorded in English, and they show his journey of trying Thai street food and exploring Thai culture. This channel is a good place for beginners to learn the Thai language, as you’ll hear some Thai conversations between Mark and local Thai people. 

3. GMM International

Category: Thai songs
YouTube channel link: https://www.YouTube.com/user/grammyinter/about
Level: Intermediate – Advanced

ดนตรีไม่มีพรมแดน (don-dtrii-mâi-mii-phrom-daaen) is a Thai saying that means: “You can enjoy the music without really understanding the language.”  

While this is true, we think that you’ll enjoy Thai music more if you understand what the lyrics mean. This is why we recommend checking out GMM Grammy, one of the biggest Thai record labels. Currently, it has a special channel for international fans.  

On its Thai YouTube music channel, there are many music videos with subtitles available in English, Japanese, and Chinese. Of course, Thai learners can take advantage of this and use the channel to learn Thai while enjoying some great music. Songs can be especially helpful for learning new vocabulary and becoming familiar with Thai pronunciation.

I love Thai songs.

4. VoBrain

Category: Thai songs
YouTube channel link: https://www.YouTube.com/channel/UCob3HtFFy9enpDX9wRbr6ig
Level: Intermediate – Advanced

This is another great channel for Thai music lovers. 

VoBrain aims to teach English to Thai people through songs and educational videos, so it uploads many Thai songs with English subtitles.  

Despite not being made directly for Thai language learners, these Thai YouTube videos contain great content that you can use to learn Thai as well. However, the downside of this channel is that you can only learn the meaning of Thai words, and not their pronunciation. 

5. Peachii

Category: Lifestyle
YouTube channel link: https://www.YouTube.com/user/madmegan06/about
Level: Intermediate – Advance

This is one of the most popular channels among Thai teenagers. 

Peachii is a Thai business woman who lives in London and married a British man, known as Stephen Oppa. She is one of the owners of the Gouni business, which helps Thai people study abroad. She does vlogging and posts videos to capture the different moments of her life, teach English to Thai people, and promote her business.  

Her videos are recorded using a mix of Thai and English. This means that, while her videos are aimed at teaching English, you can still watch this channel to pick up some new Thai words. Because Peachii is a native Thai, you’ll also be able to familiarize yourself with the Thai accent and culture.

One of the strengths of learning Thai online with her YouTube channel is the interesting content. Her videos are so varied that you’ll never get bored! 

6. Loukgolf’s English Room

Category: Educational TV Show
YouTube channel link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHpN16LZ6YGWIWw1gMWIVhw
Level: Beginner – Intermediate

If you were to ask Thai students about the most popular English teachers, Loukgolf would absolutely come up a lot. He is a passionate teacher who understands and gets along with students and teenagers well.  

Apart from owning an English school, he also did educational TV shows. He would invite Thai celebrities and talk to them in English, as a way to encourage young Thai people to learn and speak English. The show is done in about 70% English and 30% Thai with English subtitles.  

Despite being geared toward English learners, Thai learners can also benefit from these shows. You can learn new vocabulary and get familiar with how Thai people speak in daily life. Moreover, this show is very fun—if you love Thai celebrities, don’t miss this channel!

7. Itchy feet ภาษาอังกฤษติดเที่ยว

Category: Educational TV Show
YouTube channel link: https://www.YouTube.com/user/ThaiPBS/search?query=itchy+feet
Level: Intermediate – Advanced

This channel is perfect for Thai learners who love traveling.  

This show features both Thai and English speech, as well as subtitles in both languages. Actually, this channel aims to teach English to Thai people through videos about trips to various places. The host speaks in English and then translates what he just said into Thai.  

If you’ve been learning Thai for a while and understand at least the basics, you can practice your Thai listening skills by watching these videos.

Learn through the trip

8. GMM TV

Category: TV Drama
YouTube channel link: https://www.YouTube.com/user/GMMTVSPOTLIKE
Level: Intermediate – Advanced

Thai dramas on YouTube? Yes please! 

If you want to enjoy watching a good TV drama, not understanding the language can be a problem. In order to completely understand what’s being said in a Thai TV drama, your Thai skills have to be pretty good.  

But if your Thai isn’t at that level yet, you can still enjoy Thai TV dramas and learn the language at the same time. GMM TV uploads many TV dramas with English subtitles, so you can improve your Thai skills with little to no effort. 😉

Thai TV drama is fun.

9. ครูโอ๋ สื่อการเรียนการสอน (khruu-ǒo-sùue-gaan-riian-gaan-sǎawn)

Category: Thai Learning
YouTube channel link: https://www.YouTube.com/channel/UCv2oBsP3i7hDFuHXmCbpQ2A/
Level: Beginner

ครูโอ๋ (khruu-ǒo) is a Thai teacher who uploads many educational videos for Thai children.  His channel name means “Teacher Oh – education media.”

He believes that good and fun video content helps children learn better, and his channel mainly targets young Thai children. All of the lessons are in Thai, but Thai learners can still benefit from these Thai language lessons. For example, you can learn how to read and write the Thai alphabet.

10. ThaiPod101

Category: Thai Learning
YouTube channel link: https://www.YouTube.com/user/ThaiPod101/
Level: Beginner – Advanced

There are many channels you can visit if you want to learn Thai through YouTube videos. But you probably noticed that many of them aren’t actually designed to teach Thai to foreigners. 

If you want to learn Thai online in the most effective way possible, visit the ThaiPod101 YouTube channel today. We provide all kinds of good Thai language lessons for you, from the Thai alphabet to Thai pronunciation and grammar. In addition, you’ll find plenty of native Thai dialogues and language-learning tips. Plus, ThaiPod101 uploads videos regularly to ensure you always have tons of videos to choose from. We hope to see you around!

I learn Thai at ThaiPod channel.

11. Conclusion

There are many different channels that can serve as effective supplements to your normal language learning routine, but ThaiPod101 is the best! See for yourself, and start speaking real Thai today.

Are there any other YouTube channels you use to learn Thai? Please share with us in the comments! ^^

After spending some time on your favorite Thai learning YouTube channels, visit ThaiPod101.com and explore all that we have to boost your studies. For example: 

• Common Thai Idioms
• Thai Pronunciation
• Thai Numbers

Happy Thai learning!

เป้าเป่าซาลาเปาร้อน ๆ ก่อนเก็บลงกระเป๋า (bpâo–bpào-saa-laa-bpao-ráawn-ráawn-gàawn-gèp-long-grà –bpǎo) means “Bpâo blew the hot bun before putting it in the bag” in Thai.  

For those who aren’t familiar with the Thai language, or who have just started learning it, when you hear this sentence, you may wonder why Thai people repeat the same word so often. However, Thai people didn’t repeat the same word; the words in color, despite sounding very similar, have different tones.

Thai is one of many languages that uses tone. Thus, to communicate in Thai, it’s important that you master Thai tones. Luckily for you, this lesson will teach you everything you need to know. 

How many tones are there in Thai? How can you identify Thai tone markers in writing? In this article, we’ll cover a variety of essential topics ranging from Thai tone symbols to their pronunciation. We’ll also provide you with some tips on how to learn Thai tones effectively. 

Let’s get started! Start with a bonus, and download the Must-Know Beginner Vocabulary PDF for FREE! (Logged-In Member Only)

Table of Contents

1. Basic Information About Tones in Thai
2. Mid Tone
3. Low Tone
4. Falling Tone
5. High Tone
6. Rising Tone
7. Comparing Thai Language Tones
8. Thai Tone Rules and Exceptions
9. Tips on Mastering Thai Tones
10. Conclusion

1. Basic Information About Tones in Thai 

เสียงวรรณยุกต์ (sǐiang-wan-ná-yúk) is “tone” in the Thai language, and there are five Thai tones that you’ll need to master. When Thai people say the name of each tone, they use เสียง (sǐiang) + the name of the tone.  

วรรณยุกต์ (wan-ná-yúk) is “tone mark” in Thai, and there are only four Thai tone marks: 

• ไม้เอก (mái-èek) =  -่
• ไม้โท (mái-thoo) =  -้
• ไม้ตรี (mái-dtrii) =  -๊
• ไม้จัตวา (mái-jàt-dtà-waa) =  -๋

However, it’s important to keep in mind that you can’t just rely on tone marks to guide your pronunciation and tone changes. Thai alphabet tones also matter, and thus the only way to pronounce the correct tone is to combine the sounds of consonants, vowels, and tone marks together.   

The Thai tones chart below summarizes everything you need to know about the five tones of Thai.

Tone Name	Mid Tone	Low Tone	Falling Tone	High Tone	Rising Tone
Thai Tone Name	สามัญ (sǎa-man)	เอก (èek)	โท (thoo)	ตรี (dtrii)	จัตวา (jàt-dtà-waa)
Romanization Tone Mark	none	-̀	-̂	-́	-̌
Tone Level
ExampleThai Word	กา	ก่า	ก้า	ก๊า	ก๋า
Romanization	gaa	gàa	gâa	gáa	gǎa

In the following sections, ThaiPod101.com will explain each Thai tone in detail. We’ll also provide example sentences, phrases, or dialogues with each of the Thai tones. 

2. Mid Tone 

Tone name: สามัญ (sǎa-man)

Romanization tone mark: For the mid tone, there is no romanization tone mark.

Pronunciation: If you think of Thai tones as being like music, the mid tone, like its name suggests, is in the middle.  

Example 1:
วันนี้อากาศดี
wan-née-aa-gàat-dii
“The weather today is good.”

Example 2:
แกงร้านนี้เค็มมาก
gaaeng-ráan-níi-kem-mâak
“The curry at this restaurant is very salty.”

Example 3:
ตาของเธออายุมากแล้ว
dtaa-khǎawng-thooe-aa-yú-mâak-láaew
“Her grandfather is very old.”

Example 4:
อาจารย์ของฉันใจดี
aa-jaan-khǎawng-chǎn-jai-dii
“My professor is kind.”

Example 5:
กาตัวใหญ่เกาะอยู่บนต้นไม้
gaa-dtuua-yhài-gàw-yhùu-bon-dtôn-mái
“A big crow is on the tree’s branch.”

3. Low Tone 

Tone name: เอก (èek)

Romanization tone mark: For the low tone, a short line that’s higher on the left end is put on the first vowel of the word. ( -̀ )

Pronunciation: Using the music analogy again, the low tone is lower than the mid tone, but higher than the rising tone.

Example 1:
ไข่ไก่มีประโยชน์ต่อร่างกาย
khài-gài-mii-bprà-yòot-dtàaw-râang-gai
“Eggs are good for your health.”

Example 2:
จดหมายฉบับนี้ส่งมาจากไหน
jòt-mhǎai-chà-bàp-níi-sòng-maa-jàak-nhǎi
“Where is this letter from?”

Example 3:
เด็ก ๆ กำลังเล่นน้ำอย่างสนุก
dèk-dèk-gam-lang-lên-nám-yhàang-sà-nhùk
“Children are now playing in the water cheerfully.”

Example 4:
ปู่เลี้ยงเต่าตัวเล็ก ๆ เอาไว้หลายตัว
bpùu-líiang-dtào-dtua-lék-lék-ao-wái-lhǎai-dtua
“My grandfather has many small turtles.”

Example 5:
สุนัขเห่าเสียงดัง
sù-nák-hào-sǐiang-dang
“The dog barks loudly.”

4. Falling Tone

Tone name: โท (thooe)

Romanization tone mark: For the falling tone, a little hat is put on the first vowel of the word. ( -̂ )

Pronunciation: The falling tone is lower than the high tone, but higher than the mid tone.

Example 1:
บ้านของป้าฉันหลังไม่ใหญ่ แต่สวยมาก
bâan-khǎawng-bpâa-chǎn-lhǎng-mâi-yhài dtàae-sǔuay-mâak
“My aunt’s house is not big, but is very beautiful.”

Example 2:
เธออ่านหนังสือห้าเล่มจบในเก้าวัน
thooe-àan-nhǎng-sǔue-hâa-lêm-jòp-nai-gâao-wan
“She finished five books in nine days.”

Example 3:
อาหารปิ้งย่างกำลังเป็นที่นิยม
aa-hǎan-bpîng-yâang-gam-lang-bpen-thîi-ní-yom
“Grilled food is very popular now.”

Example 4:
หน้าหนาวส้มอร่อยและราคาไม่แพง
nhâa-nhǎao-sôm-à-rhôi-láae-raa-khaa-mâi-phaaeng
“During winter, oranges taste good and are not expensive.”

Example 5:
แม่บอกว่าเธออ้วนขึ้น ต้องลดน้ำหนักแล้ว
mâae-bàawk-wâa-thooe-aûuan-khûen dtâawng-lód-nám-nhàk-láaew
“Mom said she is getting fatter and must go on a diet now.”

5. High Tone 

Tone name: ตรี (dtrii)

Romanization tone mark: For the high tone, a short line that’s higher on the right end is put on the first vowel of the word. ( -́ )

Pronunciation: The high tone is the highest tone.

Example 1:
น้ำทะเลที่ปราณบุรีใสมาก
nám-thá-lee-thîi-praan-bù-rii-sǎi-mâak
“The sea at Phetburi is crystal-clear.”

Example 2:
คิ้วของน้าสวยมาก
khíu-khǎawng-náa-sǔuay-mâak
“My aunt’s eyebrows are very beautiful.”

Example 3:
ตอนนี้ฟ้ามืดลงเรื่อย ๆ เหมือนฝนจะตกเลย
dtaawn-níi-fáa-mûuet-long-rûueai-rûueai-mǔuean-fǒn-jà-dtòk-looei
“The sky is getting darker and darker now; it looks like it will rain soon.”

Example 4:
เธอเคยเห็นช้างเตะฟุตบอลมั้ย
thooe-khooei-hěn-cháang-dtè-fút-baawn-mái
“Have you ever seen an elephant playing football?”

Example 5:
วันนี้คนมาซื้อของที่ร้านเยอะมาก
wan-níi-khon-maa-súue-khǎawng-thîi-ráan-yóe-mâak
“Today, there are a lot of people coming to the shop to buy things.”

6. Rising Tone 

Tone name: จัตวา (jàt-dtà-waa)

Romanization tone mark: For the rising tone, a little “v” is put on the first vowel of the word. ( -̌ )

Pronunciation: The rising tone is the lowest tone.

Example 1:
พ่ออ่านหนังสือพิมพ์ทุกเช้า
phâaw-àan-nhǎng-sǔue-phim-thúk-cháo
“Dad reads the newspaper every morning.”

Example 2:
ตอนนี้ภาคเหนือของไทยอากาศเริ่มหนาวแล้ว
dtaawn-níi-phâak-nhǔuea-khǎawng-thai-aa-gàat-rôoem-nhǎao-láaeo
“The weather in northern Thailand is getting cold now.”

Example 3:
น้องชายฉันอยากไปดูเสือที่สวนสัตว์
náawng-chaai-chǎn-yhàak-bpai-duu-sǔuea-thîi-sǔuan-sàt
“My brother wants to go see the tiger at the zoo.”

Example 4:
ผิวหน้าของเธอดีมาก ๆ
phǐu-nhâa-khǎawng-thooe-dii-mâak-mâak
“Her complexion (literally: facial skin) is very good.”

Example 5:
ฉันไม่ชอบหมา
chǎn-mâi-châawp-mhǎa
“I don’t like dogs.”

7. Comparing Thai Language Tones

You now know that there are five tones in Thai, and you’ve learned the basic Thai tone rules for pronunciation. In terms of vocabulary, knowing how to pronounce Thai tones accurately is crucial. A little change in tone can completely change the meaning of a word. 

In this section, we’re going to give you a little bit of practice material to help you see what we mean! These are examples of Thai words with different tones.

1- Near / Far 

• ใกล้ (glâi) is “near” in Thai.
• ไกล (glai) is “far” in Thai.

Tone	Mid Tone	Low Tone	Falling Tone	High Tone	Rising Tone
Thai	ไกล	ไกล่	ใกล้	ใกล๊	ไกล๋
Pronunciation	glai	glài	glâi	glái	glǎi
Meaning	“far”	–	“near”	–	–

2- Fishy / News / Rice / White 

• คาว (khaao) is “fishy” in Thai.
• ข่าว (khàao) is “news” in Thai.
• ข้าว (khâao) is “rice” in Thai.
• ขาว (khǎao) is “white” in Thai.

Tone	Mid Tone	Low Tone	Falling Tone	High Tone	Rising Tone
Thai	คาว	ข่าว	ข้าว	ค้าว	ขาว
Pronunciation	khaao	khàao	khâao	kháao	khǎao
Meaning	“fishy”	“news”	“rice”	–	“white”

3- Come / Horse / Dog 

• มา (maa) is “come” in Thai.
• ม้า (máa) is “horse” in Thai.
• หมา (mǎa) is “dog” in Thai.

Tone	Mid Tone	Low Tone	Falling Tone	High Tone	Rising Tone
Thai	มา	หม่า	ม่า	ม้า	หมา
Pronunciation	maa	màa	mâa	máa	mǎa
Meaning	“come”	–	–	“horse”	“dog”

4- Envelope / Look through / Brothel / Acclaim / Two  

• ซอง (saawng) is “envelope” in Thai.
• ส่อง (sàawng) is “look through” in Thai.
• ซ่อง (sâawng) is “brothel” in Thai.
• ซ้อง (sáawng) is “acclaim” in Thai.
• สอง (sǎawng) is “two” in Thai.

Tone	Mid Tone	Low Tone	Falling Tone	High Tone	Rising Tone
Thai	ซอง	ส่อง	ซ่อง	ซ้อง	สอง
Pronunciation	saawng	sàawng	sâawng	sáawng	sǎawng
Meaning	“envelope”	“look through”	“brothel”	“acclaim”	“two”

5- Carry / Hungry

• หิ้ว (hîu) is “carry” in Thai.
• หิว (hǐu) is “hungry” in Thai.

Tone	Mid Tone	Low Tone	Falling Tone	High Tone	Rising Tone
Thai	ฮิว	หิ่ว	หิ้ว	ฮิ้ว	หิว
Pronunciation	hiu	hìu	hîu	híu	hǐu
Meaning	–	–	“carry”	–	“hungry”

8. Thai Tone Rules and Exceptions

As mentioned at the beginning of this lesson, Thai tone marks aren’t the only factor that affect the tone of a word. The information we’re going to cover here is a bit more advanced than what you’ve learned so far. If you understand it, that’s great! It will help you understand the logic behind Thai tones.  

However, if you find this part hard, don’t pressure yourself. When Thai children learn how to pronounce tones, they don’t learn about lessons like this until later. So you don’t need to fully understand these rules and exceptions to pronounce Thai tones correctly.

1- Three Classes of Thai Consonants

In Thai, consonants affect how you pronounce a word. You may have noticed in the examples from the previous section that some letters can take on every tone, while some can’t. This is because there are ไตรยางศ์ (dtrai-yaang), or “three classes of Thai consonants”: 

• High-toned alphabet
• Middle-toned alphabet
• Low-toned alphabet 

Middle-toned letters can take on all five tones, so if the initial letter of a word is middle-toned, that word has five possible tones. High-toned and low-toned letters can only take on three tones, so in order to pronounce five tones, you need two initial letters.  

There’s no need to remember which letter is in which class since it’s likely to confuse you more. Just remember that some words can only have three tones, and you have to change the initial letter in order to pronounce five tones. Also, when you try to pronounce a word, if you pronounce the Thai consonants and vowels correctly, this will help you get the right tone.

ก can be used with every tone.

Tone	Mid Tone	Low Tone	Falling Tone	High Tone	Rising Tone
Thai	ไกล	ไกล่	ใกล้	ใกล๊	ไกล๋
Pronunciation	glai	glài	glâi	glái	glǎi
Meaning	“far”	–	“near”	–	–

ซ and ส can only be used with certain tones. 

Tone	Mid Tone	Low Tone	Falling Tone	High Tone	Rising Tone
Thai	ซอง	ส่อง	ซ่อง	ซ้อง	สอง
Pronunciation	saawng	sàawng	sâawng	sáawng	sǎawng
Meaning	“come”	“look through”	“brothel”	“acclaim”	“two”

2- Dead Syllables and Live Syllables 

Other factors that affect a word’s tone are the sound of the vowels and the final letter. คำเป็น (kham-bpen) means “live syllables” and คำตาย (kham-dtaai) means “dead syllables.” Dead syllables and live syllables are special classifiers Thai people use; we’ll explain this more below.

A- Live syllables

Thai words that are considered to be “live syllables” must have one of these characteristics:

• If the word has no final alphabet, it must have a long vowel. For example, สามี (sǎa-mii) which is “husband” and อาหาร (aa-hǎan) which is “food.”
  
  The final alphabet is the last alphabet of the syllable or word. Some syllables or words may not have a final alphabet. For example, มีด (mîit), meaning “knife,” is composed of ม, -ี, and ด. ม is the initial alphabet. -ี is a vowel. ด is the final alphabet.

• If the word has a final alphabet, it must end with sonorant final letters (ng, n, m, i, and o in romanization). For example, ส้ม (sôm), which is “orange,” and กางเกง (gaang-geeng), which is “pants.”

Words that are live syllables can be used with three to five tones, depending on the class of the initial alphabets.

B- Dead syllables

Thai words that are considered to be “dead syllables” must have one of these characteristics:

• If the word has no final alphabet, it must have a short vowel. For example, มะลิ (má-lí), which is “jasmine,” and กระทะ (grà-thá), which is “pan.” 

• If the word has a final alphabet, it must end with a stop consonant (k, t, and p in romanization). For example, ซัก (sák), which is “wash,” and ขับ (khàp), which is “drive.”

Words that are dead syllables can be used with two to four tones, depending on the class of the initial alphabets. Mid-tone and dead syllable words can’t be used together.

9. Tips on Mastering Thai Tones

As mentioned before, tones play a very important role in pronunciation. Unfortunately, if your native language has no tones, you’ll find Thai pronunciation and tones quite difficult. We have some tips for you on how to practice Thai tones effectively. 

1- Practice All Five Tones for New Words

ผันวรรณยุกต์ (phan-wan-na-yuk) is “pronounce five tones of words” in Thai. 

When you learn new words, one of the best ways to get in some Thai tones practice is to try pronouncing that word in all five of its tones (not just the one you’re learning). For example:

Tone	Mid Tone	Low Tone	Falling Tone	High Tone	Rising Tone
Thai	พา	ผ่า	ผ้า	พ้า	ผา
Pronunciation	phaa	phàa	phâa	pháa	phǎa

By practicing the pronunciation of all five tones, you’ll be able to distinguish between each tone better. This is how Thai children learn the different Thai tones as well.

2-  Listen to Native Thai Speakers Often

When it comes to understanding Thai tones, listening and speaking go hand-in-hand. By listening to Thai people speak a lot, you’ll get used to how Thai people speak and will eventually be able to hear the differences between tones.  

3- Watch Thai Educational Programs for Kids

For those who have just started learning Thai, watching Thai educational programs for kids can certainly help. Normally, hosts or characters in programs like this talk or pronounce words slowly and clearly. This makes it easier for you to practice repeating what they say.

10. Conclusion

You’ve reached the end of this lesson! Do you feel like you’re any closer to distinguishing between and pronouncing Thai tones? We hope you at least know how many tones there are in Thai. Let us know by commenting below.

Learning Thai tones is a very important step in mastering the language. So we hope you practice this lesson a lot. It may be hard now, but you’ll get used to Thai tones in no time.

Be sure to check out other fun lessons on ThaiPod101.com. We make learning Thai both fun and informative.

Happy Thai learning! 

Teachers are valued in every country around the world, but few nations show teachers their due respect like Thailand does. This is reflected in Thai Teachers’ Day, celebrated each year to encourage the humility of students before their teachers. 

In this article, you’ll learn all about Teachers’ Day in Thailand, from its recent beginnings to how it’s celebrated. Let’s get started!

1. What is Teachers’ Day?

National Teachers’ Day is a Thai holiday celebrated each year on January 16. On this day, students go out of their way to show their teachers ความเคารพ (khwaam khao-róp), or “respect.” 

It was General Phiboonsongkram who first suggested the creation of Teachers’ Day in Thailand. He spoke on the topic with teachers, the mass media got involved in promoting the holiday’s implementation, and the National Cabinet made it an official holiday in 1956. The first celebration took place the next year in 1957. 

This holiday is rooted in the belief that teachers are some of the most valuable contributors to society, and as such, deserve to be recognized and appreciated for their devotion. This extends not only to school teachers, but to teachers in any field of life. 

Thai people often associate the profession of teaching with that of the taxi-boat profession. The taxi-boat service was once a crucial element of Thai society because Thai people traveled largely by river in the past. Just as a taxi-boat driver takes passengers to their destination and goes back for more passengers, so do teachers bring students to their destinations and continue to do so for students over the years. Teachers are seen as a path to the future. 

→ To pick up some school-related vocabulary, you can check out our School Subjects and Back to School Essentials word lists!

2. Teachers’ Day Traditions and Celebrations

In Thailand, Teachers’ Day celebrations begin the day before. 

Every โรงเรียน (roong-riian), or “school,” in the nation hosts special events honoring teachers. The first activity is for teachers and students to make merit by offering food to the monks. Afterward, students honor their teachers by bringing them a พานไหว้ครู (phaan wâai khruu), or “flower tray with candles and incense,” and bowing at their feet. In addition, there are competitions to see which student can create the best Teachers’ Day slogan; the winner receives a small scholarship. 

In some high schools, students may give speeches on this day to reflect on the influence of teachers in their lives. Teachers themselves are encouraged to think back on their own teachers. 

Teachers’ Day celebrations in Thailand involve a lot of symbolism. There are four symbols that are particularly important: 

• ดอกเข็ม (dàawk khĕm), or “Ixora,” flowers.
  
  Ixora flowers have sharp petals, which represent a sharp mind.

• Eggplant flowers.
  
  Eggplant flowers grow downward, which represents the humility of students toward their teachers and their willingness to เรียน (riian), or “study.”

• Cynodon grass.
  
  Cynodon grass grows easily, which represents the growth of students’ knowledge.

• Tok rice.
  
  Tok rice is a white rice that has been roasted and popped, representing the ability of students to flourish and shine brightly with enough discipline.

Visit our ‘Plants’ Culture Class lesson to learn about five other plants that are common in Thailand.

3. The Wai Kru Ceremony

การศึกษา (gaan sùek-sǎa), or “education,” is taken very seriously in Thailand, as is the art of teaching. So it should come as no surprise that there is another special day for teachers in Thailand: Wai Kru, or Teacher Appreciation Day. This ceremony takes place near the beginning of the Thai school year (normally mid-May), and involves students showing respect and humility toward their new teachers. 

The most important activities for this day include saying a Buddhist prayer, reciting a chant, offering gifts to teachers, and engaging in special performances. Sometimes, the head teacher of a school will give a speech and present awards to certain students. 

Wai Kru in Thailand is also performed outside of the formal education system. For example, it is popular in the arts. 

4. Essential Vocabulary for Teachers’ Day in Thailand

Now let’s review some of the words from this article, plus a few more! 

• สอน (sǎawn) – “teach” [v]
• โรงเรียน (roong-riian) – “school” [n]
• การศึกษา (gaan sùek-sǎa) – “education” [n]
• ครู (khrŭu) – “teacher” [n]
• นักเรียน (nák-riian) – “student” [n]
• เรียน (riian) – “study” [v]
• กตัญญู (gà-dtan-yuu) – “grateful” [adj.]
• ดอกเข็ม (dàawk khĕm) – “Ixora” [pr. n]
• เรียนรู้ (riian rúu) – “learn” [v]
• ความเคารพ (khwaam khao-róp) – “respect” [n]
• พานไหว้ครู (phaan wâai khruu) – “flower tray with candles and incense” [n]

Remember that you can hear the pronunciation of each word on our Teachers’ Day vocabulary list! 

Final Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed learning about this popular Thai holiday with us, and that you’re feeling inspired to keep studying. Is there a Teachers’ Day celebration in your country? Or maybe a particular teacher you are กตัญญู (gà-dtan-yuu), or “grateful,” to have had in your life? Let us know in the comments! 

To learn even more about Thai culture and holidays, you can read the following blog posts from ThaiPod101.com:

• Wan-rát-thà-tham-má-nuun: Celebrating Thai Constitution Day
• Trut Chin: The Chinese New Year Festival in Thailand! 
• Celebrating Buddhist Lent Day in Thailand
• Making Merit: End of Buddhist Lent Day in Thailand
• Celebrating the Songkran Festival in Thailand

And this is only a sample of what we have in store for you! Create your free lifetime account today to gain access to numerous learning resources, themed vocabulary lists, and fun audio and video lessons. We make learning Thai easy and enjoyable, so what are you waiting for?