Here are five basic Thai phrases for travelers, presented in a more casual and easygoing style, along with a friendly Thai greeting.
1. Hello / Goodbye – สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dee)
This is your go-to word for saying hi and bye. It’s friendly and works in almost any situation.
Pronunciation: sa-wat-dee
Usage:
- When you meet someone: “สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ (sà-wàt-dee kráp/kâ)”
- kráp is for guys, and kâ is for gals.
- When leaving: “สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ (sà-wàt-dee kráp/kâ)”
2. Thank You – ขอบคุณ (khàawp-khun)
A simple thank you can go a long way. Thai people appreciate the effort!
Pronunciation: kop-koon
Usage:
- After someone helps you out: “ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ (khàawp-khun kráp/kâ)”
3. Yes / No – ใช่ (châi) / ไม่ใช่ (mâi châi)
Knowing how to say yes and no is super handy.
Pronunciation:
- Yes: chai
- No: mai-chai
Usage: - Agreeing: “ใช่ครับ/ค่ะ (châi kráp/kâ)”
- Disagreeing: “ไม่ใช่ครับ/ค่ะ (mâi châi kráp/kâ)”
4. Excuse Me / Sorry – ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot)
Use this to apologize or to get someone’s attention politely.
Pronunciation: kaw-toht
Usage:
- When you bump into someone: “ขอโทษครับ/ค่ะ (khǎaw-thôot kráp/kâ)”
- When you need to get past someone: “ขอโทษครับ/ค่ะ (khǎaw-thôot kráp/kâ)”
5. How Much? – เท่าไหร่ (thâo-rài)
Perfect for shopping adventures. Ask this to find out the price.
Pronunciation: tao-rai
Usage:
- Checking the cost: “อันนี้เท่าไหร่ (an-níi thâo-rài)”
Thai Greeting Etiquette – The Wai (ไหว้)
Besides saying hello, you might notice people doing a cool little bow with their hands together. This is called the wai.
Usage:
- Greeting someone: Put your hands together like a prayer and give a slight bow. Say “สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ (sà-wàt-dee kráp/kâ).”
- More respect for elders or monks: Raise your hands higher, to your face level, and bow a bit deeper.
By picking up these basic phrases and the wai, you’ll blend in better and show some local flair. Enjoy your travels in Thailand!
