It’s a fantastic destination with so much to offer—delicious food, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. But let’s be honest, navigating a new country can be a bit tricky, especially if you don’t speak the language. I’ve been there, and I know how frustrating it can be to communicate basic needs when you’re lost in translation.
During your travels in Thailand, while the majority of individuals, particularly those in popular tourist spots, can communicate in English, here are some fundamental Thai expressions that can assist you.
Therefore, in this post, I intend to provide you with several important words and phrases in Thai that will, hopefully, be beneficial to you.
Basic Greetings and Polite Expressions
When arriving in Thailand, a warm greeting can create a positive atmosphere for your interactions. Here are some essential phrases to help you get started:
Sawat dee (สวัสดี)
A greeting you’ll hear all day, whether morning, noon, or night. Men add “Khrup” (ครับ) and women add “Kha” (ค่ะ) at the end for politeness.
Example:
John: Sawat dee Khrup (Hello)
Jane: Sawat dee Kha (Hello)
Note: The “R” in “Khrup” is often not emphasized in casual conversation. It can sound more like “Kup.”
La-gon (ลาก่อน)
Saying goodbye is just as important as a friendly greeting. In Thai, “La-gon” is used for farewells. As with greetings, politeness particles are added based on gender.
La-gon (ลาก่อน)Use this to say “goodbye.”
Example:
John: La-gon Khrup (Goodbye)
Jane: La-gon Kha (Goodbye)
This phrase is straightforward and polite, making it perfect for leaving any setting.
Khop Khun (ขอบคุณ)
Expressing gratitude is a key part of any culture. In Thai, “Khop Khun” is the way to say “thank you.” Adding “Khrup” or “Kha” makes it even more polite.
Khop Khun (ขอบคุณ) Use this to say “thank you.”
Example:
John: Khop Khun Khrup (Thank you)
Jane: Khop Khun Kha (Thank you)
A simple gesture of appreciation goes a long way in Thai culture.
Mai Pen Rai (ไม่เป็นไร)
In Thailand, people often use “Mai Pen Rai” to mean “no worries” or “it’s okay.” It’s a versatile phrase that can be used in various situations, from accepting apologies to calming minor inconveniences.
Mai Pen Rai (ไม่เป็นไร) Use this phrase for “no worries” or “it’s okay.”
Example:
John: Mai Pen Rai Khrup (It’s okay)
Jane: Mai Pen Rai Kha (No worries)
This expression embodies the laid-back Thai attitude.
Kor Thot (ขอโทษ)
“Kor Thot” is the Thai way of saying “excuse me” or “sorry.” It’s a polite way to apologize or get someone’s attention.
Kor Thot (ขอโทษ) Use this to say “excuse me” or “sorry.”
Example:
John: Kor Thot Khrup (Excuse me)
Jane: Kor Thot Kha (Sorry)
Whether you’re navigating crowded spaces or apologizing for a mistake, “Kor Thot” is an essential phrase.
Shopping and Bargaining
Shopping in Thailand can be an adventure in itself, especially if you enjoy bargaining. It’s a common practice in markets and some shops, and knowing a few key phrases can make the experience more enjoyable and even save you some money.
Nee Tao Rai? (นี่เท่าไหร่?)
If you want to know the price of an item, just ask, “Nee Tao Rai?” It means “How much is this?” This phrase is your go-to for checking prices at markets or street stalls.
Example:
John: Nee Tao Rai Khrup? (How much is this?)
Jane: Nee Tao Rai Kha? (How much for this?)
Lot Dai Mai? (ลดได้ไหม?)
When you’re feeling confident, try “Lot Dai Mai?” which means “Can you lower the price?” It’s a polite way to ask for a discount, and it’s expected in many markets.
Example:
John: Lot Dai Mai Khrup? (Can you give me a discount?)
Jane: Lot Dai Mai Kha? (Can you lower the price?)
Paeng Mak (แพงมาก)
If something seems too expensive, you can say “Paeng Mak,” which means “Very expensive.” It’s a gentle way to express that the price is more than you expected.
Example:
John: Paeng Mak Khrup (That’s very expensive)
Jane: Paeng Mak Kha (Quite pricey)
Kor Rakha (ขอราคา)
When you want to ask for the price more politely, use “Kor Rakha,” which means “May I have the price?” It’s another way to inquire about the cost without being too direct.
Example:
John: Kor Raha Khrup? (What’s the price?)
Jane: Kor Rakha Kha? (How much is it?)
Sood Tai (สุดท้าย)
To confirm the final price during bargaining, say “Sood Tai,” meaning “Final price.” It’s a way to agree on the last offer and seal the deal.
Example:
John: Sood Tai Khrup? (Is this the final price?)
Jane: Sood Tai Kha? (Is that your best offer?)
Mai Ao (ไม่เอา)
If you’re not interested in buying something, “Mai Ao” means “I don’t want it.” It’s a polite way to decline an offer or item without offending anyone.
Example:
John: Mai Ao Khrup (I don’t want it)
Jane: Mai Ao Kha (No, thank you)
When shopping in Thailand, remember that bargaining can be enjoyable and polite. A smile and a few Thai phrases can make your shopping experience more pleasant and memorable.
Dining and Food-Related Phrases
Eating out in Thailand is a delightful experience, with a vast array of flavors and dishes to try. Knowing a few basic phrases can make ordering food and drinks a lot easier, and even enhance your dining experience.
Ao… (เอา…)
When you’re ready to order, simply say “Ao…” followed by the dish you want. It means “I want…” or “I’ll have…”
Example:
John: Ao pad thai Khrup (I want pad thai)
Jane: Ao som tam Kha (I’ll have papaya salad)
This phrase makes it clear to the waiter or vendor what you’d like to order.
Mai Sai… (ไม่ใส่…)
If you need to avoid certain ingredients, use “Mai Sai…” which means “No…” or “Don’t put…” It helps specify dietary restrictions or preferences.
Example:
John: Mai Sai prik Khrup (No chili)
Jane: Mai Sai nam pla Kha (No fish sauce)
This phrase ensures your meal is prepared the way you like it.
Check Bin (เช็คบิล)
When you’re ready to pay, ask for the bill by saying “Check Bin.” It’s equivalent to saying “Check, please.”
Example:
John: Check Bin Khrup (Check, please)
Jane: Check Bin Kha (Can I have the bill?)
This phrase will help you smoothly end your dining experience.
Aroi (อร่อย)
Complimenting the food is a great way to show appreciation. “Aroi” means “delicious.” It’s a simple way to praise the meal.
Example:
John: Aroi mak Khrup (Very delicious)
Jane: Aroi jang loei Kha (So delicious)
It’s a nice gesture that can bring a smile to the cook’s face.
Nam (น้ำ)
“Nam” means “water.” Whether you want plain water or ice water, this word is key.
Example:
John: Nam plao Khrup (Plain water)
Jane: Nam keng Kha (Ice water)
Knowing these dining and food-related phrases can make your meals in Thailand more enjoyable. Whether you’re ordering, customizing your dish, or showing appreciation for the food, these simple phrases will help you communicate effectively and enjoy the local cuisine.
Essential Travel Phrases
Pai Yang Rai? (ไปยังไง?)
Getting directions is a common need while traveling. “Pai Yang Rai?” translates to “How to go to…?” This phrase helps you ask for directions or inquire about the best way to reach a destination.
Pai Yang Rai? (ไปยังไง?) Use this to ask “How to go to…?”
Example:
John: Pai Yang Rai Khrup? (How do I get there?)
Jane: Pai Yang Rai Kha? (How do I get to this place?)
Combine this phrase with a place name, and you’re good to go!
Yu Nai? (อยู่ที่ไหน?)
To find specific locations, “Yu Nai?” is the question to use. It means “Where is…?” Whether you’re looking for a landmark, hotel, or restaurant, this phrase will help you get the answers you need.
Yu Nai? (อยู่ที่ไหน?)Use this to ask “Where is…?”
Example:
John: Yu Nai Khrup? (Where is it?)
Jane: Yu Nai Kha? (Where is this place?)
It’s a versatile question that can be applied to almost any situation where you’re trying to find something.
These sentences are super important for getting around Thailand. They help you ask about prices, speak in English, and find your way to different places. Ready for the next part?
Chai (ใช่) / Mai Chai (ไม่ใช่)
To affirm or deny something, “Chai” means “yes” and “Mai Chai” means “no.” These simple responses are essential in everyday conversations.
Chai (ใช่) Use this to say “Yes.”
Example:
John: Chai Khrup (Yes)
Jane: Chai Kha (Yes)
Mai Chai (ไม่ใช่)
Use this to say “No.”
Example:
John: Mai Chai Khrup (No)
Jane: Mai Chai Kha (No)
These straightforward answers are useful for agreeing or disagreeing.
Mai Khao Jai (ไม่เข้าใจ)
If you’re having trouble understanding something, “Mai Khao Jai” means “I don’t understand.” It’s a polite way to express confusion and ask for clarification.
Mai Khao Jai (ไม่เข้าใจ)Use this to say “I don’t understand.”
Example:
John: Mai Khao Jai Khrup (I don’t understand)
Jane: Mai Khao Jai Kha (I’m confused)
This phrase is helpful when language barriers cause misunderstandings.
Basic Numbers (1-10):
1: Nèung (หนึ่ง)
2: Sŏng (สอง)
3: Săam (สาม)
4: Sìi (สี่)
5: Hâa (ห้า)
6: Hòk (หก)
7: Jèt (เจ็ด)
8: Pàet (แปด)
9: Kâo (เก้า)
10: Sìp (สิบ)
By using these essential travel phrases, you can enhance your interactions and connect with the local culture during your visit to Thailand.
Conclusion
Learning a few basic Thai phrases can make your trip to Thailand a lot more enjoyable. It helps you communicate better, shows respect for the locals, and even makes your interactions more meaningful. Simple phrases like “Sawat Dee” for hello, “Khop Khun” for thank you, and “Hong Nam Yu Nai?” for finding the bathroom can go a long way.
You don’t need to be perfect; just trying to speak the language will be appreciated. It can make a big difference in how locals respond to you, and it can make your experience more memorable. So, don’t be shy—give these phrases a try! Enjoy your adventure in Thailand, and have a great time exploring this beautiful country.
Check out my other posts for traveling around Thailand
