Knowing some basic Thai phrases can be extremely beneficial when traveling to Thailand, whether for business or pleasure. By taking the time to learn a few key phrases, you not only demonstrate your respect for the local culture but also enhance your interactions with the locals, ultimately making your trip more enjoyable and hassle-free. It is important to note that Thai is a tonal language, which can make it a bit challenging to master. However, do not be discouraged if you initially make mistakes in pronunciation. The locals will generally appreciate your effort and may even assist you in correcting your pronunciation.
Here, we have gathered a collection of frequently used phrases that you will probably find helpful during your stay in the Land of Smiles.
The basics
Khap and ka – please restate the text to provide sufficient context for me to rephrase it accurately.
Prior to proceeding with greetings and other necessary phrases, it is necessary to first address a few fundamental guidelines. To convey politeness and show respect, it is crucial to conclude your sentences or questions with the word khap/ka when engaging in conversation with a Thai individual.
The usage of khap or krap at the end of a sentence depends on the gender of the speaker rather than the person being addressed. Males should use khap or krap, while females should use ka. There is no exact translation of khap/ka in English.
Rephrase the text below while maintaining the same meaning: Khun The task is to rephrase the word “Khun” while keeping its original meaning. However, as “Khun” is a proper noun, it cannot be rephrased without losing its meaning. It is a polite title used in Thai culture to address someone with respect, and there is no direct synonym or equivalent word in English. Therefore, “Khun” cannot be accurately rephrased while retaining its original meaning.
The term Khun is employed as a polite means of addressing an individual, denoting a respectful manner of speaking. It is customary to use this term preceding a person’s name, although it does not possess a direct equivalent in English, unlike the titles of Mr. or Ms.
Greetings in Thai
Hello (sir/madam), a common way to greet a Thai person is by saying “sa wad dee” (??????). This greeting can be used at any time and is usually accompanied by the Wai gesture, which is similar to shaking hands in the Thai culture.
Adding the word “krub/ka” to every sentence you speak is crucial when conversing with unfamiliar individuals, as it enhances politeness.
If you identify as a woman, you would use “Sa Wad Dee Ka” (????????). Similarly, if you identify as a man, you would use “Sa Wad Dee krub” (??????????), regardless of the recipient’s gender. It is important to note that the choice of krub/ka depends on your own gender, not that of the other person involved.
Knowing and applying this golden rule will make it easier for you to use the krub/ka words in other sentences from this list, thereby creating a more polished and respectful tone for Thai listeners.
In Thai, gratitude is expressed as “Thank You.”
Kob Khun (krub/ka) is a simple way to express gratitude in Thailand, and it is customary for the other person to respond with the same phrase.
When you purchase street food, simply say “Kob Khun (krub/ka)” as a way to express gratitude, and the vendors will respond in kind. This phrase is a wonderful icebreaker that fosters friendly interactions and shared smiles with the locals.
Is it true that in Thai, the response to a yes/no question is expressed differently?
Chai / Mai (krub/ka): It is quite fascinating that there is an alternative word that can be utilized instead of the translated term. In Thai language, the word for affirmative is Chai (krub/ka), however, you can also employ the word “krub/ka” alone as a means of expressing agreement. How interesting is that?
If you are a woman and someone asks if the scooter is yours, you can respond with just “chai ka” or simply “ka”. Similarly, men can say “krub” instead of “chai krub” as well.
The Thai word for no is simply “mai (krub/ka)” and there is no alternative like the word yes, which is actually a good thing.
What is the cost in Thai?
When you want to inquire about the price of something, simply point to the item and say “Tao Rai (krub/ka)”
If you find yourself in a market and want to inquire about the price of the specific item you wish to purchase, you can use this phrase. In this case, you will either need to indicate or display the item you are referring to.
If the price is considered too high, you have the option to request a discount by using the phrase “Lode Dai Mhai (krub/ka)”, initiating the negotiation process. Informing them that it is too expensive with the phrase “Paeng Pai (krub/ka)” may increase the likelihood of receiving a greater discount.
What is the Thai equivalent of “How are you”?
To inquire about a Thai person’s well-being, you may use the phrase “Sabai Dee Mhai (krub/ka).” Similarly, if they inquire about your well-being, you would respond with “Sabai Dee (krub/ka)” to indicate that you are well.
There is no issue in Thai.
Mai Pen Rai (krub/ka): Thai people use this fantastic word, which technically translates to “No Problem,” as a response to thank you. However, it also has various additional meanings that might be difficult for non-Thai individuals to comprehend. For instance, Thais employ this expression to maintain their dignity when they make an error, among other applications.
The phrase, “Mai Pen Rai”, can be interpreted in various ways, but the main point to remember is that it is a response used when someone thanks you. Simply reply with “Mai Pen Rai (krub/ka)”.
When you are traveling in Thailand, these are the two common scenarios where you may utilize “Mai Pen Rai (krub/ka)”: when you wish to politely decline someone else’s offer, such as a tuk-tuk driver asking if you need a taxi.
In Thai, my name is written.
Rao Chue _______ (krub/ka): Introducing yourself can be done by using the word Rao Chue, followed by your name and krub/ka. Rao is a word that is not specific to any gender and is used to refer to oneself. “Chue” translates to name in Thai. For example, if your name is Pete, you would say “Rao Chue Pete krub”. It’s quite simple, isn’t it?
Pardon me in the Thai language.
Kho Tode (krub/ka) would be used to express apology or address the situation when someone unintentionally obstructs your path. This scenario is quite common, particularly in Bangkok, where slow walkers can be found frequently.
Farewell/Best of luck in Thai.
To bid farewell or convey good luck in Thai, one may use the phrase “Choke Dee (krub/ka).” This expression can be employed interchangeably to mean both goodbye and best wishes.
As an illustration, when you are bidding farewell to your host in Thailand after spending time together, you can give a hug and wave goodbye while saying “Choke Dee (krub/ka)”.
Sawasdee in Thai
Having a drink with the Thais and clinking glasses with them using the Thai phrase “Chon Kaew” is the ultimate ice-breaker.
If you want to socialize with new people in a club or pub, this word can be incredibly handy. The Thai people are very welcoming towards tourists, so if you request to Chon Kaew, they will gladly oblige.
You don’t need to add the word (krub/ka) at the end, as it is frequently used in informal situations. Therefore, there is no need to be formal by including the word (krub/ka) at the end.
Thai is incredibly stunning!
If you wish to admire the beauty of something or someone, such as a view or a guesthouse, you can express it by saying “Suay Mak!”. This informal word is used to appreciate the beauty without requiring the addition of krub/ka at the end.
If you desire to acknowledge a woman’s beauty, you can express it by saying “Khun Suay Mak!” On the other hand, if you want to acknowledge a man, you will have to say “Khun Lor Mak!” which translates to “Very Handsome” because, similar to English, the term “beautiful” is frequently associated with women while “handsome” is commonly used for men.
Eating and ordering in restaurants/bars
I am feeling hungry – Hiu.
To inform someone about your hunger in Thai, simply utter the word “hiu” (pronounced as hee-yoo).
What is the price of this dish? – Jarn-Nee Rah-Car Tao-Rai?
In certain restaurants and street food stalls, the price might not be mentioned on their menu. In such situations, you can inquire by saying “jarn-nee rah-car tao-rai?” If the phrase feels lengthy and challenging to pronounce, you can utilize the abbreviated version: “tao-rai krap/ka?” (how much?).
Mild – Mai Pet
If you can’t handle spicy foods, it is crucial to memorize this phrase. Thai cuisine often incorporates ample amounts of chili and other spices, so to avoid a mouth and stomach that feels aflame, ensure you know how to express “mai pet.”
Even if you request for your dish to be not spicy, certain restaurants and street food stalls might still include a few chili peppers. To completely avoid any chili in your food, you can explicitly say “mai sai prik,” which signifies “do not include any chili in my food.”
I desire it to be extremely hot – Ao Phed-Phed.
Want your dish spicier? Just say “ao phed-phed” if you love spicy food.
Sugar is not included – Mai Sai Nam Tam.
If you want to reduce calories or prefer unsweetened drinks, just say “mai sai nam tam,” as sugar is commonly added to various Thai dishes and beverages ranging from coffee to noodle soup.
Takeaway – Ao Glub Baan
If you want to order something for takeout, simply say “ao glub baan.” This phrase, which translates to “go home,” can also be used to inform someone that you’re heading home.
Aroi is synonymous with delicious.
Remember to say “aroi!” to show your appreciation if the food is delicious.
Asking for directions
Leo sai means turn left, leo kwaa means turn right, and trong bpai means go straight.
Knowing some basic directions in Thai can prevent you from being deceived or overcharged. Certain taxi drivers may intentionally take incorrect routes to extend the journey, thereby extracting more money from you. To counter this, employ Google Maps and demonstrate your familiarity with the correct path towards your desired location. The ability to navigate the driver will result in significant savings of both time and money. Request a left turn by using “leo sai,” instruct a right turn with “leo kwaa,” and indicate continuing straight with “dtrong bpai.”
Is it possible for you to drive faster? I’m running late – Kap Reo Reo Dai Mai, Chan Sai Laew.
If the driver is slow when you’re running late, employ this phrase to request them to accelerate.
Take it easy – Hai Chah Long
If you are concerned about your safety due to the driver’s speeding, you can ask them to slow down by saying “hai chah long.”
Hong Nam Yoo Tee Nai gets rephrased to “Where can I find the toilet?”
It is essential to remember this straightforward phrase in order to avoid uncomfortable situations when you need to use the restroom but are unsure of its whereabouts.
Shopping at the market
How much does this item cost? – An Nee Tao Rai?
Certain sellers employ the notorious practice of charging foreigners a higher price, commonly known as the “farang price,” which significantly exceeds what a Thai individual would pay. Inquiring about the price in Thai can genuinely help mitigate the risk of paying twice the initial amount.
Is there a possibility of receiving a discount? – Lot Noi Dai Mai?
Make sure to bargain for a discount when shopping at a traditional market as the majority of sellers are likely to offer reduced prices.
Can you provide it in various colors? – Is there a different color option available?
If you find something you like but prefer it in a different color, simply inquire with the seller by asking, “Do you have this item in other colors, please?”