Speaking Thai
Thai is a tonal language belonging to the group of Ka-Tai languages, the five tones are monotone, low, falling, high, and rising. This can be a rather complicated language for the visitor; however, English is quite widely understood, particularly in Bangkok where it is almost the major commercial language.
As when visiting any country it is useful to know a few phrases, if only to be polite.
Here are a few Thai basic greetings and phrases to try.
|
Hello (male speaker) |
sawatdee krup |
|
Hello (female speaker) |
sawatdee kaa |
|
How are you? |
sabai dee reu pao |
|
Fine thanks |
sabai dee |
|
Thank you |
kop koon |
|
Never mind |
mai pen rai |
|
I can't speak Thai |
phoot Thai mai dai |
|
I don't understand |
mai kao chai |
|
Do you understand? |
kao chai mai |
|
May I take a photograph? |
tai ruup dai mai |
|
Where is the rest room? |
hong nam yoo tee nai |
|
How much does this cost? |
nee tao-rai |
|
What is this ? |
nee arai |
|
Very expensive |
paeng maag |
|
The bill please |
gep taang |
|
Good-bye |
la gon |
|
See you again |
laew phob gan mai |
|
Good luck |
kor hai chok dee |
|
Sorry/excuse me |
kor thoad |
Thai Visa Home Page
