Thailand, oh beautiful Thailand! Thailand is home to some of the best food your lips will ever taste, some of the friendliest people, and the ever-flowing beauty of its natural landscapes. This country is one of the most-visited countries in Southeast Asia, with tourists coming from near and far. Thailand offers the perfect mix for backpackers and resort-loving individuals. Not to mention the many beautiful islands that offer great water recreational activities, and who could forget Bangkok, the ultimate shopper’s paradise? Before you go, it is, of course, important to know the various Thai phrases. These terms will have you enjoying your Thai experience better and also maybe getting a few discounts, deals, and offers as well! So go on, take down notes!
1. Sawasdee
Meaning: Hello / Goodbye. It is a greeting in Thai that is used for both hello and goodbye. Trust me, when you’re there, you’ll be greeted with this by almost every Thai you meet. It’s a bonus if you clasp both palms and bow a little, in a wai, if you say this greeting!
2. Khob khun
Meaning: Thank you. Say thank you at everything and everyone if you can and wear it with a smile. Everyone deserves a thank you, right?
3. Mai ow
Meaning: Don’t want. As Thailand is a top tourist spot, there are many people, such as street vendors and sellers, promoting their items and tour packages. And I really mean many. It’s advised to politely say this term instead of the standard, dismissive hand gesture if you are not interested in whatever they are offering.
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4. Yoo tee nai
Meaning: Where is … One of the top must-know terms especially if you’re a first time traveller in that area, or just clueless about the place. Or, of course, if you are just lost! Note that the noun comes before this phrase, so, for example, “Where is Ayutthaya?” would become “Ayutthaya yoo tee nai?”
5. Hong nam yoo tee nai?
Meaning: Where is the toilet?
6. Khor tort
Meaning: Sorry. Do you really need a reason as to why this is on the list?!
Do note, however, that khor tort can be used in many situations, not just your standard apology. It can mean excuse me, as in when trying to get somebody’s attention, excuse me when you’re trying to get past somebody, and sometimes, it can even act rather like a filler phrase when the speaker doesn’t know what else to say!
7. Gee Baht
Meaning: How much? Pro tip: when you ask how much the price is in Thai instead of in English, you may get discounts!
Depending on where you are, the phrase tow arai might be more commonly used than gee.
8. Lot noi dai mai?
Meaning: Can I get it at a cheaper price? Yes of course you can, especially since you asked in Thai!
9. Pom / chan rak khun
Meaning: I love you. Use pom rak khun if you’re male and chan rak khun if you’re female.
Pro speak: to sound more like a Thai, use ter instead of khun! (Pom rak ter / chan rak ter.)
Khob khun ka!
Before you start using your new found knowledge, it is important to note that the Thai language differs mildly with the gender of the speaker. Basically, women say ka at the end of a sentence in Thai, while men say krap. And with that, you’re good to go!
So kick back and enjoy this gorgeous slice of heaven. But do remember that Thai is a tonal language, so don’t be too discouraged if your first attempts at speaking are met with confused looks. As Thais would say, mai bpen rai. No worries!
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