LangMedia
Thai in Thailand
Greetings and Partings
For formal occasions, Thai people greet one another by placing hands together in front of the body and making a little bow. Friends greeting informally will just say "hello." People will issue invitations for parties or meetings, but other times it is appropriate to make a visit without an invitation or to just call ahead. It is not polite to make a visit during meal times unless invited. Afternoons are usually a good time for casual visits. Also, do not stay late at night. Many people may be headed to bed by 9:00 p.m. or so.
It is customary to bring a gift of food to one's hosts. Fruits, snacks, or regional specialty foods are appropriate gifts. Always take off shoes and socks before entering a house. Hosts will usually offer something to drink and maybe some type of snack food.
Videos
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"Greeting Guests"Transcript document:
Audio
Click on the text to hear the spoken phrase.
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"Hello"
(informal, but polite)
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"Hello"
(formal, female speaker)
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"Hello"
(formal, male speaker)
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"How are you?"
(informal)
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"Pleased to meet you?"
(formal, female speaker)
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"Pleased to meet you?"
(formal, male speaker)
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"I have to go now."
(formal, female speaker)
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"I have to go now."
(formal, male speaker)
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"See you again."
(informal, used for good bye)
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"Goodbye"
(formal, female speaker)
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"Goodbye"
(formal, male speaker)