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Thai in Thailand


Greetings and Partings

A house

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


Audio

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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)
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