Thai Foundation

Day 2

common expressions

Now that we can make sentences, ask questions and respond, we are able to converse at least a little in Thai. Before we can go out to practise though, we need to know how to greet people and make small talk.

sàwàd-dee

good morning/afternoon/evening

Can be used at any time of day when arriving or departing.

yin dee thêe dâi rúu jàk

pleased to meet you

raa-dtree-sàwàd

good night

Used only late evening onwards when departing.

laa gàwn

goodbye/farewell

Used only when there is no expectation to see the other person again for an extended period.

khun sà-baai dee măi?

how are you?

phŏm sà-baai dee

I am fine / I am well

khàwp khun

thank you

khăw thôod

excuse me/sorry

Used in most situations, for example if you bump into somebody by accident, or interrupt somebody speaking, or to ask someone to let you pass on the footpath.

phŏm sĭia jai

I am sorry

Used to express regret, such as on the receipt of bad news.

raw sák-khrûu

just a moment

khun phûud àrài?

what did you say?

waeh-laa thâo-rai / gèe moong láeo

what time is it?

maa rew rew

come quickly

bpai cháa cháa

go slowly

mâi bpen rai

never mind/that’s all right

yin dee

you’re welcome

khăo bpen wàd

he has a cold

phŏm bpùuad hŭua

I have a headache

phŏm yûng mâak

I am very busy

maa săai

to come late

chern khâang nai

please come in

phŏm leuum láeo

I’ve forgotten

raa-khaa thâo-rai?

how much is it?

phŏm mâi hĕn dûuai

I don’t agree

phóp gan phrûng-née

see you tomorrow

dĭaao phóp gan

see you later

phóp gan mài

see you again

mâi mee bpan hăa

no problem