In Thai tradition, being well mannered and expressing gratitude are important facets of social interplay. By studying well mannered phrases, you not solely present respect for Thai customs but additionally develop deeper connections with the folks you encounter.
So, whether or not you are sightseeing in Bangkok, propping up a barstool in Pattaya, or chilling in Isaan, use please and thanks to encourage constructive interactions with the locals.
Saying “Please” in Thai
There are literally 3 ways of claiming “please”, relying on the use case.
1. ขอ (Khǎaw)
The most typical method to say “please” is through the use of the phrase “ขอ” (khǎaw) earlier than the verb. That is extra informal than the 2 varieties beneath however nonetheless well mannered sufficient for on a regular basis dialog. For instance, “ขอโทษ” (khǎaw thot) means “Please excuse me.”
Translated to English, the phrase sounds extra like “cor”.
2. กรุณา (Ga-ru-naa)
This extra formal expression of the phrase please is usually utilized in well mannered requests, comparable to asking for help or making a proper inquiry. As an example, “กรุณาช่วยด้วย” (Ga-ru-naa chuay duay) means “Please assist.”
3. โปรด (Pròht / Bpròht)
“โปรด” (Proht) carries a proper tone and is employed in formal written language or bulletins. It conveys a way of respectful request.
For instance: “โปรดช่วยกันรักษาความสะอาด” (bpròht chûuay gan rák-săa kwaam sà-àat) — Please maintain the realm clear.
Saying “Thank You”
1. ขอบคุณ (Khàawp khun)
That is the commonest method to specific gratitude in Thai. Whether or not receiving a present, a praise, or help, “ขอบคุณ” (khàawp khun) is the go-to phrase. It is appropriate for each formal and casual conditions.
2. ขอบคุณมาก (Khàawp khun mâak)
To convey deeper appreciation, you possibly can add “มาก” (mâak) which implies “very” or “so much” after “ขอบคุณ” (khàawp khun). This emphasizes the extent of your gratitude, making it extra heartfelt. You possibly can even go for a double “mâak” for deeper appreciation (mâak mâak).
3. ขอบคุณจริงๆ (Khàawp khun jing jing)
For a fair stronger expression of gratitude, you possibly can say “ขอบคุณจริงๆ” (khàawp khun jing jing), which interprets to “thanks sincerely” or “thanks very a lot certainly.” That is notably applicable for conditions the place somebody has gone above and past that will help you, you might have already mentioned thanks, however need to stress that you’re grateful past phrases.
4. ขอบคุณที่ช่วยเหลือ (Khàawp khun tii chuay leua)
When thanking somebody for his or her help, you possibly can particularly point out what they helped you with by saying “ขอบคุณที่ช่วยเหลือ” (khàawp khun tii chuay leua), which implies “thanks in your assist.”
Including Important Politeness to Your Sentence
You need to use these politeness particles on the finish of each sentence you say.
1. “ครับ” (Khráp)
Utilization: “ครับ” (khráp.) is often utilized by male audio system to point politeness and respect. It is not generally utilized by feminine audio system except they’re deliberately making an attempt to imitate male speech patterns for particular contexts. This phrase very often seems like “cup”.
Examples:
- “ขอบคุณครับ” (khàawp khun khráp.) – Thanks (mentioned by a male speaker)
- “ใช่ครับ ขอ” (Chai khráp, khǎaw) – Sure, please.
2. “ค่ะ” (Khâ)
Utilization: “ค่ะ” (khâ) is primarily utilized by feminine audio system to precise politeness and respect. Male audio system don’t sometimes use “ค่ะ” (ka), except a person has purposefully adopted a female tone.
Examples:
- “ขอบคุณค่ะ” (khàawp khun khâ) – Thanks (mentioned by a feminine speaker).
- “ใช่ค่ะ ขอ” (Chai khâ, khǎaw) – Sure, please.