Top 10 Everyday Thai Phrases You'll Actully Use
Top 10 Everyday Thai Phrases You’ll Actually Use
If you’re learning Thai, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the vocabulary. But the truth is, you don’t need to memorize thousands of words to start having real conversations. Most locals appreciate it when foreigners try to speak Thai — and knowing a few key phrases can go a long way in daily life.
Here are 10 everyday Thai phrases you’ll actually use — whether you’re ordering food, getting around, or just being polite.
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1. สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dee) – Hello / Goodbye
This is the most basic Thai greeting. Use it any time of day — with a polite wai (palms pressed together) for extra respect.
👩 Women say: sà-wàt-dee kâ
👨 Men say: sà-wàt-dee kráp
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2. ขอบคุณ (khàawp-khun) – Thank you
Politeness is everything in Thai culture. Saying thank you with a smile goes a long way.
👩 Women: khàawp-khun kâ
👨 Men: khàawp-khun kráp
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3. ใช่ / ไม่ใช่ (châi / mâi châi) – Yes / No
Simple and essential for everyday responses.
Yes = châi
No = mâi châi
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4. ไม่เป็นไร (mâi bpen rai) – It’s okay / No worries
A very Thai phrase, often used to brush things off with kindness.
It’s used like “Don’t worry about it” or “No problem.”
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5. เท่าไหร่ (thâo-rài) – How much?
Useful at markets, taxis, or anywhere prices aren’t listed.
Example: Nîi thâo-rài? = “How much is this?”
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6. ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน (hâwng-náam yùu thîi-nǎi?) – Where’s the bathroom?
You won’t want to forget this one — trust us.
Literally: “Bathroom is where?”
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7. ช่วยด้วย! (chûay dûuai!) – Help!
Hopefully, you won’t need this — but it’s good to know.
Pronounced with urgency: chûay dûuai!
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8. ไม่เข้าใจ (mâi khâo-jai) – I don’t understand
When things get too fast or complicated, say this politely.
Use with a smile to keep things light.
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9. พูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม (phûut phaa-sǎa ang-grìt dâai mái?) – Do you speak English?
If you’re stuck, this phrase can be a lifesaver.
Bonus tip: Try it in Thai first — people are more likely to help!
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10. อร่อยมาก (a-ròi mâak) – Very delicious!
Thai people love food — and compliments.
Say this at food stalls or restaurants to make someone’s day.
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Final Tip:
Focus on speaking these phrases often, not just reading them. The more you use them, the more natural they’ll feel.
Want to practice these phrases with a native speaker?