Every language has proverbs and sayings that are unique to their culture. While on Koh Phangan you may hear one as the Thai’s have many! Here’s a list of the top 10 most commonly spoken one (as well as an English version of the same meaning) so you’ll know what they mean.
Translation: To play the violin for the buffalo to listen to.
English version: Talking to a brick wall.
Meaning: You’re wasting your time talking to a person that does not listen.
Translation: To escape from the tiger to the crocodile.
English version: Out of the frying pan into the fire.
Meaning: Getting out of one problem just to find yourself in another even worse one.
Translation: Putting a gold leaf on the back of the Buddha image.
Meaning: Do good, not for attention.
Translation: You have to lose something to get another thing.
English version: You can’t make an omelette without breaking any eggs.
Meaning: Regarding a situation in which it is difficult to achieve something important without causing any unpleasant effects.
Translation: Bad seven times, good seven times.
English version: Every cloud has a silver lining.
Meaning: Even in a bad situation, there is something good.
Translation: When the water rises, hurry to get some.
English version: Make hay while the sun shines.
Meaning: Take advantage of the opportunity to do something before it’s too late.
Translation: Catch a fish with two hands.
English version: You can’t have your cake and eat it.
Meaning: You can’t have it all, you must choose one.
Translation: Splitting a hardwood with an axe.
English version: Calling a spade a spade.
Meaning: To speak honestly about something even if it isn’t what wants to be heard.
Translation: When the cat is not there, the mice are happy.
English version: When the cat’s away, the mice will play.
Meaning: If the authority figure is out, the subordinates do as they please.
Translation: Those who can’t dance blame it on the flute and the drum.
English version: A bad workman blames his tools.
Meaning: It’s the person's own damn fault but they blame something else.
Translation: Drink water and remember the source.
English version: Don't bite the hand that feeds you.
Meaning: Always remember and appreciate where your benefits come from.
Translation: Give moral support.
English version: Lend a helping hand.
Meaning: Offering support or encouragement to someone.
Translation: Monkeys play freely.
English version: When the cat’s away, the mice will play.
Meaning: People will take advantage of the absence of authority to do as they like.
Translation: Beautiful in front but losing face behind.
English version: All that glitters is not gold.
Meaning: Things might look good on the outside but can be bad underneath.
Translation: Laugh mockingly.
English version: Laugh in someone’s face.
Meaning: To ridicule or make fun of someone directly.
Translation: A buffalo enters the forest.
English version: A bull in a china shop.
Meaning: Someone who is clumsy or tactless in a delicate situation.
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Secondly, online platforms like Ling provide a diverse range of resources and tools that cater to different learning styles. For instance, learners can access audio recordings, visual aids, and interactive exercises, all of which are crucial for mastering a tonal language like Thai. This multi-faceted approach helps in developing a comprehensive understanding of the language, encompassing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Additionally, many online applications offer features like speech recognition technology, which is particularly useful for practising pronunciation and improving speaking skills. With the ability to receive immediate feedback and track progress, learners can identify areas for improvement and tailor their study plans accordingly. Thus, learning Thai online through apps like Ling is not only convenient and engaging but also provides a rich, adaptive learning environment that can cater to individual needs and preferences.
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Translation: The crowing chicken serves as an example.
English version: The squeaky wheel gets the grease.
Meaning: People who complain the most are the ones who get attention or what they want.
Translation: Cannot choose according to one's taste.
English version: Beggars can't be choosers.
Meaning: When in need, you can't always be picky.
Translation: The decoy bird doesn't know the call.
English version: Out of one’s depth.
Meaning: Being in a situation that you don’t fully understand or are unprepared for.
Translation: The sky after the rain.
English version: Every cloud has a silver lining.
Meaning: Finding hope or a positive aspect in a bad situation.
Living as an ex-pat and knowing the local language is a big advantage and increases the level of communication and interaction with the local community and authorities. The Thai people respect foreigners who show knowledge of the Thai language for putting in the effort to learn it and will usually treat them back with respect.
To keep improving your Thai language you should try some Thai Language Courses, it is not as hard as it might seem, as there is a lot of logic and word combinations.
Before choosing a teacher it is advised to read the reviews, not just the average rating, to get a better feel of the tutor. It is better to select someone who is not far in age and seems to have similar hobbies and interests as you.
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