Feeling a bit intimidated by the considered studying the Thai language? It’s no shock if you’re, as mastering this lovely and sophisticated language can undoubtedly be a problem for complete newbies. However right here’s a enjoyable twist: Do you know Thai additionally boasts a slew of untranslatable phrases? These linguistic gems add one more layer of intrigue and complexity to your language-learning journey. So in case you’re able to dive deeper into the fascinating world of untranslatable Thai phrases, learn beneath!
For a lot of newbies, the Thai language generally is a difficult tongue to be taught. One of many major causes is because of its distinctive tonal system. In contrast to most languages that depend on intonation or stress, Thai has 5 distinct tones that change the which means of a phrase. This may be troublesome for English audio system, as we’re not used to creating such exact tonal distinctions. Add to that the truth that this Asian language has an intricate writing system which will simply confuse anybody.
However hey! Studying this language remains to be enjoyable and doable! One fast technique to immerse your self on this language is by beginning with terminologies you possibly can have enjoyable with. And because you landed on this publish, there’s an enormous likelihood that you simply wish to be taught some distinctive vocab. In that case, we rounded up beneath the six most fascinating but untranslatable Thai phrases so that you can start with.
6 Untranslatable Thai Phrases
Are you prepared to find the hidden gems of the Thai language and tradition? Look no additional than the world of untranslatable Thai phrases! These linguistic treasures are fascinating and provide a singular perception into the values and customs of Thai society. Let’s start!
1. งอน (Ngaawn)
Translating this phrase into the Roman alphabet provides you ngaawn. It’s an adverb that describes sullen feelings from someone’s actions. Feeling this isn’t as intense as getting indignant or upset, however it connotes a adverse vitality. Within the Thai tradition, you could usually really feel this manner towards folks near you, like family and friends.
Moreover, this additionally applies to a lover’s struggle. Have you learnt these conditions whereby you allow them to know you’re not pleased with what they did by giving them the chilly shoulder? That’s how we will clearly clarify what this phrase means.
2. เกรงใจ (Kreng-Jai)
Kreng-Jai is one in all Thailand’s many untranslatable Thai phrases, referring to a person’s traits. It’s made from two phrases: kreng interprets to “have a concern of (one thing),” whereas jai means “coronary heart.” Placing these two translations collectively might make you “have a concern of coronary heart,” which could sound odd.
Typically talking, Kreng-Jai refers to a high quality of a very good particular person. It means pondering of somebody’s wants or placing them into consideration. It reveals a well mannered character of a person. A very good instance generally is a good friend serving to you discover a job or get a cab. These easy gestures already offer you an concept of what this Thai phrase means.
3. น้อยใจ (Noi-Jai)
By the sounds of those two phrases, you could guess that it’s intently associated to the earlier one, through which you’re appropriate. In contrast to kreng-jai, noi-jai refers to a sense. An individual might really feel this emotion in case you reject their affords. It’s just like getting offended. So, if somebody reveals you a sort gesture, settle for it so long as it’s not inflicting them any hassle!
4. บน (Bon)
You will have already identified that Thai persons are fairly spiritual. Regardless of having totally different religions, all of them imagine that there’s a God. You is perhaps aware of prayers through which folks ask the Almighty to do them a favor, and in return, they’d promise to do one thing. Nicely, that’s what bon means. It could not translate to one thing in English, however it clearly has one thing to do with religion.
5. ไม่เป็นไร (Mâi Bpen Rai)
This Thai phrase might describe a number of conditions. It’s usually spoken when there’s nothing extra you are able to do for that particular person. For example, if somebody tells you “thanks,” you possibly can reply mâi bpen rai as an alternative of you’re welcome. You might also use this phrase when saying you’re okay or not mad. These translations might not have the identical phrase, however Thai folks use this phrase to reply to the given conditions.
6. หมั่นไส้ (Man Sai)
These two phrases don’t have a literal which means. You could really feel man sai if someone is a complete show-off or conceited. It’s not all the time a adverse feeling as a result of you could use this untranslatable phrase while you really feel completely satisfied about somebody’s achievement in life. Nonetheless, it doesn’t actually equate to jealousy, annoyance, or anger.
Nonetheless, loads of folks say that it’s impolite to say it because it virtually has the identical which means as “disgusting.” However once more, it doesn’t have a direct translation in English. So, its which means could also be decided by the state of affairs or the tone utilized by the speaker.
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