Thai Language

Even a modest attempt to speak Thai will earn you a happy smile and respect from many Thais. Thai is a tonal language and by slightly rising or lowering the tone will change the meaning of the word. The word "my" can have five different meanings all controlled by the tone in which it is pronounced.

Thai also uses a slightly different vocabulary for men and women. The masculine Thai word for ‘me’ or ’I’ is pom , the feminine equivalent is chan. Thais always include a polite closing word to a statement. Men finish a sentence with the Thai word "Krup" and women with "Ka" The words have little if any direct translation but a Thai will think very highly of you if you use it.

"Farang" may be the first Thai word that you hear during your stay in Thailand. Thais use the word "farang" to refer to Caucasian people, or things associated with them (such as western food "ahan farang"). The word is commonly believed to be derived from the Thai pronunciation of the name of a early visitor from Greece, Constantine Phaulkon who figures prominently in Thai history.

There is a vocabulary section of Thai words for those who want to practice a little Thai during their stay. Learning the numbers and how to say "thank you" and "how much?" will be a great help when bargaining with the locals.

Thai Vocabulary

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