Traveling to Thailand becomes a lot easier—and more enjoyable—when you know a few simple Thai phrases. Even though many people in big cities speak English, using Thai words shows respect, helps you connect with locals, and often brings better service (and bigger smiles!).
This guide covers 10 essential phrases every traveler should know, plus pronunciation tips and real-life examples.
1. “Hello” – Sawasdee (สวัสดี)
Pronunciation: sa-wat-dee
- Men add: “khrap” (ครับ) → sawasdee khrap
- Women add: “kha” (ค่ะ) → sawasdee kha
When to use:
Greeting anyone, anytime—shops, hotels, restaurants, taxis.
Why it’s important:
It’s the most common way to greet locals and immediately shows politeness.
2. “Thank you” – Khop Khun (ขอบคุณ)
Pronunciation: kop-koon
- Men: khop khun khrap
- Women: khop khun kha
When to use:
After receiving food, help, service, or information.
Tip:
Thailand values politeness. Saying “khop khun” always leaves a good impression.
3. “Yes / No” – Chai / Mai Chai (ใช่ / ไม่ใช่)
Yes (ใช่): chai
No (ไม่ใช่): mai chai
When to use:
- Taxi questions
- Ordering food
- Shopping
- Asking for directions
Example:
Taxi: “BTS?” → You: “Chai!”
4. “How much?” – Tao Rai? (เท่าไหร่)
Pronunciation: tao-rai?
When to use:
At markets, street shops, taxis, boat rides, souvenirs.
Example:
“Ni tao rai?” → How much is this?
Tip:
Most markets expect bargaining. Start at 60–70% of the first price.
5. “I don’t understand” – Mai Khao Jai (ไม่เข้าใจ)
Pronunciation: mai-khao-jai
When to use:
If locals speak too fast or use Thai only.
Example:
“Mai khao jai kha/khrap” → I don’t understand.
6. “Where is…?” – Yoo Tee Nai? (อยู่ที่ไหน)
Pronunciation: yoo-tee-nai?
Examples:
- BTS station: “BTS yoo tee nai?”
- Toilet: “Hong nam yoo tee nai?”
This phrase saves you when exploring new areas.
7. “Delicious!” – Aroi Mak (อร่อยมาก)
Pronunciation: a-roy mak
When to use:
After eating street food, local dishes, or home-cooked meals.
Saying this makes vendors very happy—and sometimes they’ll give you extra food!
8. “No spicy, please” – Mai Phet (ไม่เผ็ด)
Pronunciation: mai-pet
When to use:
Thailand LOVES spicy food.
If you cannot eat spicy, always say:
“Mai phet, khrap/kha.”
Variations:
- “A little spicy” → nid noi phet
9. “I want this one” – Ao An Nee (เอาอันนี้)
Pronunciation: ao-an-nee
When to use:
Ordering food, buying clothes, choosing items at a market.
Example:
Point and say: “Ao an nee.”
Helpful when you don’t know the Thai name for things.
10. “Excuse me / Sorry” – Kor Tod (ขอโทษ)
Pronunciation: kor-tote
When to use:
- Walking through crowds
- Getting someone’s attention
- Accidentally bumping into someone
- Basic apologies
Thai culture respects gentle and polite behavior—this phrase is essential.
Bonus: A Few More Useful Thai Words
| English | Thai | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Water | น้ำ | naam |
| Not spicy | ไม่เผ็ด | mai phet |
| Spicy | เผ็ด | phet |
| Hotel | โรงแรม | rong-raem |
| Toilet | ห้องน้ำ | hong nam |
| Help! | ช่วยด้วย | chuay-duay! |
Tips for Using Thai Language
✔ Add “khrap” (men) or “kha” (women) for politeness
This simple ending makes every sentence sound polite and friendly.
✔ Speak slowly
Thai is tonal—speaking slowly helps locals understand you better.
✔ Use your hands
Pointing, gestures, and smiles help communication a lot.
✔ Don’t worry about mistakes
Locals appreciate effort more than accuracy.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be fluent to enjoy Thailand—but knowing a few simple Thai phrases can make your trip smoother, more enjoyable, and more meaningful. Locals are incredibly warm and will always appreciate your effort to speak their language.
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