Welcome to the latest video for my channel @KhonKaenDen. In this video, I give you my six tips on learning how to speak Thai 🇹🇭 ... it can be challenging to learn but incredibly rewarding. Remember that learning any language is a marathon and not a sprint and you are never too old to learn 👏. If this video inspires anyone else to learn or to push themselves more, then it has done its job😍. Hope you enjoy. Den.
@@taccntb4345 Thanks for your kind words! Great that you learning Thai too! The real advice is: DON'T give up! You will get there. Bad days, good days... just keep going! Cheers, Den.
Many thanks for your kind words and for subscribing!!! Many more videos on learning to speak Thai (from a westerner's perspective to come. Watch this space. Thanks again, Den.
@@KhonKaenDen i will be going for my permanent residence status this after 9 years in Thailand. I have to focus on my Thai speaking and listening skills. Keep up the good work.
Hey, John. Cheers. Yeah it really works... gets annoying sometimes as they keep falling off but just keep looking at them and saying them... also learn a few simple sentences and you can then switch the nouns that you have been learning. It will all come together if you keep it up! I should stick one on the missus as I always forget the word for "wife" I am sure she would love that. Thanks for sharing. Den.
I wish! Not a chance. It's hard enough learning one language and the speed in which they use Thai/Isaan here is really fast. I wouldn't be able to keep up haha. I know. a few words, nothing more. If you can speak the local dialect, then I am well and truly impressed! Cheers, Den.
Cheers, Mike. Yep... I ddi get sick of post-it notes everywhere but it really does help (I can still see them if I shut my eyes haha). THINKING in Thai is also really important as you know! Hopefully it will help a few people improve their skills anyway! Cheers, Den.
Thank you so much for your kind words! Hope it helps. I will be adding many more videos over the coming weeks and months on speaking Thai (from a westerners perspective). Stay tuned. Cheers, Den.
Thank you, Den. Your tips are spot-on! I write new Thai words into my phone and every time I pull it out I revise words and sentences. Your advice is really on the mark for learning any new language, especially Thai, since it is a tonal language. Lots of respect for you, because I'm a Singaporean Chinese and I'm used to tones, and it's still not easy for me to learn. Your videos are much appreciated, and your humour is makes it fun to watch!
Hi. Many thanks for the reply... apologies for my late response as your comment didn't show up for some reason. Anyway, I will be adding many more videos on the Thai language over the coming weeks and months and I will still try to add an element of fun to them... otherwise, learning a language can be a little boring, as I am sure you are fully aware. Thanks for sharing. Den.
I want to learn to speak also! I know many words but its hard to make conversation. I could understand the conversation you had with yourself about food in the beginning of the video 😄
Haha... I understand where you are coming from. It is one thing to learn vocabulary (and a great thing) but just try learning very basic sentences and slot in the vocab that you know... I will be doing videos on this veery soon (hopefully it will help you). Most importantly, though, don't worry about getting things wrong. I still do all the time! Take care and enjoy the rest of your weekend. Den.
@@pensiobengt Haha. Yeah!!! If you want to speak a language, you have to think that way. It is tough, but one day, out of the blue, it will all click into place! Take care. Den.
Great videos Den. I'm a new subscriber after enjoying a few of your videos. I am in much the same position you were in - Thai wife, soon to go and live permanently in Thailand, will teach English part time and need to learn Thai. I accept it as a long slow process, and am learning to read Thai. Everyone has a different idea on how best to approach the challenge of learning a new language, and provide conflicting tip, but I think everyone who is motivated finds their best way. I like your emphasis on tones, and have experienced that lack of understanding from mispronunciation. Look forward to viewing more of your videos.
Hi, Adrian. Many thanks for your kind words. I am happy that you find them useful and I will be adding many more videos over the coming months and I hope that they help you too! Including many on speaking Thai, Khon Kaen/Isan living and, of course, food!!! My missus loves eating! Thanks again, Den.
i have tried and am still trying to learn thai, many people advise to learn to read thai as it helps with pronunciation and tones, but my girl lives in surin and they nearly all speak khmer, or essaan and struggled to be understood as my tones were all wrong, just starting again watching nursery ryhmes in thai 55 55, but i find it very difficult without feed back, thinking of having some lessons or tuition when i get out there, Thanks for sharing and congratulations on reaching 500 subs 1000 is just on the horizon good luck with your channel,
Hi, Phill. Reading and writing is, of course, much better in the long run, but you can happily just learn conversational Thai and speak perfectly. I did it the wrong way, but it works for me. I would like to read and write at some point in the near future if I can. Thanks for sharing and yeah... literally saw 500 subs yesterday (done a little thank you vid on it)... will be out tomorrow. Cheers. Den.
My one tip I always give everyone is to learn to read even before you can speak properly. If you can do this you'll be flooded with new words on a daily basis and all you need to do is ask people what they mean as you go about your day.
Too right. In an ideal world, learning to read and write from the outset is, of course, the best way to learn and you have you pronouncing words correctly. I wish I had done that from the outset. I am learning to read and write now but wish I had done it a long time ago. Many thanks for sharing. Den.
@@KhonKaenDenI didn't mention pronunciation but reading really helped me here too because I can cross reference words actual pronunciation with what I think I heard (which is often wrong).
@@HairyPixels Too right. I couldn't agree more. I am literally learning to read right now haha... I WILL help no end and enrich my life for sure. Thanks again for sharing. Den.
@@HairyPixels I couldn't agree more! I am literally learning to read and write right now. And yes, with so many very similar sounding words, being able to read makes an enormous difference.... and can be misheard or misunderstood. Thanks again for sharing. Den.
@@KhonKaenDen I did your same method of writing down a single letter every day and filling a notebook page. It's so much easier to read than English, only took a few months to get a good grasp of it.
Wonderful. Thanks so much for your kind words. I will be adding many more videos about speaking Thai (from a foreigner's perspective) and hope they will help you learn... if you can learn Thai, it makes the experience here so much better. Thanks again and good luck learning Thai. Den.
Greetings from Japan....Used the exact same Thai textbook and also found it very helpful. Appreciate your down to earth style and the interesting topics. Just subscribed...
Thanks again for your kind words, David! Hope it inspires a few people to dust down their old Thai books and give learning the language a go! Well worth it... even if just very basic Thai. Thanks again and enjoy the rest of your weekend. Den.
Great video! I'm making the perminant move to Thailand on Friday 🙂. I am very keen to learn the language. Looking forward to more speaking Thai videos. Great work!
Thank you so much for your kind words. As long as you want to learn, you most certainly can! It is very much about determination. Once you are here in Thailand, you will find it much easier! Watch this space for more speaking Thai videos. Cheers, Den.
I watched a million hours (not really, maybe 900.000) of learn thai video's, just to realise that my fambam speaks Isan 😮 sure everyone speaks Thai, but on a daily basis its pure Isan 😳 challenge accepted 😅
Haha... yep. Isan is a tough place as many speak Isan and not even Thai... Not only that, when Isan people speak Thai, it seems quite harsh and quickly spoken compared to central Thai. But, most Isan folk can speak Thai so I would concentrate on Thai... though it always goes down well if you can throw in the odd Isan word into the mix. Good luck with it and I will be uploading more vids on learning Thai very soon. Cheers, Den.
Going to try and improve on the six Thai words I currently know It seems like a mountain to climb but before I came to this amazing country, I didn't know any words at all. To climb a mountain you have to take steps, today I will take my 7th and learn how to say Thank you.... "Car poon cab" (or something sounding similar) Great video, keep it up 👍 car poon cab
Brilliant. You have the right attitude... just try learning (and using) one word a day... JUST ONE. Doing that you will learn 365 words in a year. Keep it up, you can do it. Thanks for sharing. Den.
You did it Den. Thanks so much!! This was an excellent and inspiring first lesson. I appreciate it greatly. Looking forward to further lessons. I will get the book and follow your tips.Btw, the landscape in your neighborhood is amazing. I will definitely visit there.
Hi Derwin. Many thanks for your kind words! If you are going to buy that book, make sure it has the audio too... it helps greatly and improves the tones no end. Furthermore, there is a dictionary by the same author which has the same transliteration and will help you develop your vocabulary bank. I will be doing many more videos on Thai basics etc. that will hopefully help you more! The only solid advice, really, is just KEEP GOING!!! Don't give up and make learning Thai part of your daily routine. As for the neighbourhood, yeah it is a nice place. That lake is the main public park and there are a few of them in the area. It is a fairly quiet city and not for everyone, but I love it! Many thanks again and enjoy the rest of your weekend. Den.
Here is the dictionary (you might even be able to get it from your local book shop) - this is just a random link to the dictionary so you know what it looks like: www.amazon.com/Thai-English-English-Thai-Dictionary-Speakers-Classifiers/dp/1887521321
Thank you so much for your kind words. I hope this video inspires a few people to learn a bit of Thai... speaking Thai makes an already amazing country even better! Thanks again. Den.
Hi. Thanks for your comments ... and a good question (or questions, rather)!!! I think EVERYTHING depends on the individual, in all honesty. If you are young, determined and fully immersed in Thai, then I think you could learn basic reading/writing skills as well as speaking, you can learn in 6 months to a year. However, that would take some doing. For your average person, it is entirely possible to learn reading (by yourself) in about six weeks. Writing is a whole different ball game. It is tough as you have to learn to spell every single word (like with any language) but there is something like 12 different final consonant "t" sounds (or the Thai equivalent at least). Because writing is so tough, many foreigners decide to forego the reading/writing aspect. That said, if you come to Thailand, immerse yourself in the language and the culture, don't worry about making mistakes (but learn from them them), you can have a good command of the language in 6-12 months but speak confidently in only a few months (at a basic level). In terms of learning at university, I never did that. I am sure they are great and offer controlled learning and may help you learn quicker. For me, however, I think many universities teach you more "formal" Thai which is perfectly fine but not always what you would use on a day-to-day basis. I preferred just getting out there. Learning a few words and started hanging out with a few local Thai guys or whatever chatting about football or any daft topic... have a beer and help each other... they help you with Thai and you help them with English. I personally feel that gives you the urge to drive you on... you want to say things but can't... so learn those words throughout the day (write them down and practise) then use them when you meet up. Maybe a combination of controlled learning at Uni followed by meeting and chatting with locals is the best way forward! Hope this helps. Den.
Your videos are hilarious 😂 And you are of course 100% right. Everybody can learn words and sentences in Thai, it`s not that hard. Or Greek, as you Europeans like to say 😂 Reading Thai on the other hand, is a different ballgame, but farangs very rarely need to do that (although at prescriptions of medicine it might be an advantage). Listening to Thais (or to an app on your phone) is very important, it might be difficult to learn by yourself, in writing only. The tone of some words, may vary up to 5 times, with 5 different meanings.. The 6 steps (you should grow an extra finger on your left hand..) were very well presented, all good steps which make a lot of sense. Solid and good advice! Btw, wow, I am stunned by that beautiful lake.. Well done, Sir Dennis, kop khun ka 🙏🙏😊😊
Hey, Sarlina. Hope you are having a good weekend. Thanks again for your kind words (as always). Glad you like my vids! I try to get my sense of humour across in them (just like how I taught my kids at school... making it light-hearted and not too serious otherwise they got bored). Yeah, learning Thai seems like a daunting task but if you really want to learn... you can. Just learn a few words/simple sentences a day and USE THEM!!! That is really important. Listening, as you mention, is also massively important or you sound flat and won't be understood. I have heard many foreigners speaking Thai and have a better bank of vocabulary than me, but they don't use tones and it sounds flat... they are often not understood at all. The tones are everything (as you know). I will be making more videos on the Thai language very soon. If I had chopped a finger off in my last video, I could have used that for number 6 haha... yeah, that lake is my favourite. I go there 3-4 times a week to eat or walk around for a bit of exercise (you will see it in a lot of my videos) as it is only a few kilometres away. Anyway, have a great Sunday and take care. Den.
@@KhonKaenDen Sounding flat, that's a good word to use. You're right, many foreigners who haven't been listening well enough, might be hard to understand, even when their vocabulary is good. But Thais mostly try anyway, using our imagination.. That goes a long way. Another thing, but same topic, it's pretty difficult for Thais to learn English. Mostly because the sound is so different, and the words do not flow that well out of our mouth, so to speak. My background may be a bit different than most Thais', I was born in Indonesia, but have gone through the school system in 3 different countries. Indonesia, Thailand and Norway. Learning extended English at the two latter, through university degrees. So I did learn Norwegian and English while my mind was still working, and open to learning new languages. Now I'm actually trying to learn Mandarin, but I can now say that my mind isn't what it used to be. Learning a new language is so much easier if your mind is 100% into doing it. No obstacles, excuses or delays. Just 100% being there, committed. I feel I'm not there anymore, speaking and writing 4 languages seemed to be my breaking point. Mandarin is just too much. I still learn some now and then, but not at the tempo I used to. I'll get there in the end. Sorry for going off with my usual nonsense again, you must be bored to sleep by all this 😂 Have a great coming week my friend 😊🙏🙏🙏
@@sarlina1 I agree about English being difficult for Thais, especially away from the tourist traps where they are not exposed to the language enough. Not only that, there are millions of different accents (100s in the UK alone... Scottish to Newcastle, to Manchester (where I am from) to London etc.) and that is not even mentioning the US and every other place! Wow... amazing that you can speak so many languages and it must have been a good experience for you studying in different countries! I agree that you have to be all in or bust... 100% or nothing. If you are fully committed, then you really can learn any language. I spent years being lazy with my Thai but now I am making these videos, I am going to start learning to read and write. If I am going to be here forever, it is in my interests to do so! Mandarin is a very difficult language to learn and maybe your brain is full already with all the other languages you have learned!!! 😄😄😄 And you never talk nonsense... I look forward to your comments!!! Take care and enjoy your day of relaxation! My Sundays are always "don't do anything" days... Den.
I definitely want/need to learn Thai. Initially I chose to hold off, because my wife was learning English and that need was more immediate since we are still in the US. From past experience I know if I’m not using it every day I won’t absorb it well, so hopefully while I’m spending more regular time there I will be more able to immerse myself in the language and the world view and culture it embodies. I love the Thai only day idea! Can she also be fined for speaking Lao? :)
Your idea of the missus learning English first (or at least improving it) was the way to do it ... as you say, you are in the US. Once you make it to Thailand, just try breathing Thailand in... learning Thai seems like a daunting task but it can most certainly be done... just do baby steps at first and you will improve quite quickly for sure... you just have to WANT to learn (and you clearly do). Haha... yeah, fine your wife if she speaks in Lao!!! Take care and enjoy the rest of your weekend. Den.
Same for me - it was more impotant for Mrs J to learn English so she could go shopping / work / fit in in the UK. I know a little Thai( I married her :D ). I bought a book the 2nd time I went to LOS way back in 2004 but it was an English -Thai book written by a Thai man and a Dutch man which ended up getting me more miss understood as about 40% of the english was wrong ;. I found that if it was wrong I would write the correct lines in the book but write then phonetically and that helped a lot . As Den said it doesnt matter if you are wrong as long as you keep trying - eventually it will come to you. Also if you listen to those around speaking thai you may pick up on certain things. EG I was once acting the fool and stubbed my toe, - my wife said sum num nar, a few days later my nephew was showing off and fell off his push bike- his mum said sum num nar. The following week during Songkran at NamPong my sister in law was shivering after throwing water around - I said Cold ? she nodded and I replied sum num nar everyone laughed at the ferang understanding sum num nar which roughly means serves your self right . So once you see setances being used is situations it kind of makes sense.
@@mickj88 Haha... little Thai!!! Yeah, you hit the nail on the head with the "sum nam nar" bit... it is the same as trying to speak. Say something a few times and it will eventually stick. If you want to learn and keep going, it WILL happen!!! Just make sure you have a good book with audio! then start pestering your missus!!!! Haha. Take care, Den.
@@thaitraveller9756 Yeah! As I mention in the video, body language is a big part of "speaking" and waving your arms DOES get stuff sorted out haha... It's good that you want to learn. You could just try one word a day... that would be 365 words in a year! Cheers, Den.
Krap khun krap , Totally agree with all of your pointers. I must say your thai is excellent, I find I forget mine as only there for a few weeks a year ( hopefully more perminant soon). I always only used Kap khun krap and didnt ever hear the krap khun ma kap till watching you and now thanks to Mrs J I understand the difference. Keep up the good work mate :)
Cheers, Mick. Thanks for your kind words! Yeah, I try my best and listening to Thais is a great way to learn. If you are going to live here in Thailand more permanently, it is great if you can learn... you don't have to be perfect, just try... and Thais really appreciate it. It also makes you feel great when you ask a simple question or whatever and you are understood! It's an amazing feeling. Yeah, "na" is just a particle word that makes the whole sentence "softer" or more polite. Always nice to add I think! Anyway, thanks again for your kind words and keep watching as I will be uploading more videos on the Thai language over the coming months. Thanks, Den.
Hi, Paul. I would say that you can get away with it, no problem. If you are in the tourist areas, people will be able to speak some basic English. In the rural areas, they tend to just wave at you directing you where to go. Some parking lots have a barrier and give you a card and you generally just hand it back at the end. You shouldn't have a problem, to be honest. Just a nod of acknowledgement is usually enough. I suppose you could learn "Kop Khun Khrap" (thank you). That should suffice. Hope this helps. Den.
Hi, Kris. I know bacteria is basically the same (แบคทีเรีย) which says "bacteria" (but with a Thai accent. It is the same for virus (ไวรัส) which is STILL saying virus BUT with a very Thai pronunciation Wi-rat.... virat... virus. If you just say bacteria OR virus you will be understood. If you put either of those words into Google Translate, you can hear the words bacteria and virus in Thai (which are both borrowed English words but with very Thai pronunciation). Hope this helps, Den.
Haha... love it! And can't argue with that sometimes. To be perfectly honest, I did that with my missus for a while... In my early days my Thai was flying, learning loads every day. Going out, chatting learning new stuff. Then I met my future wife then at school as a teacher (where I taught) whose English is better than mine sometimes (she is now a lecturer at uni, teaching English pronunciation). I had to shake off the "hiding behind the missus and let her sort everything" attitude in order to keep learning so I started going out on my own to eat and whatnot while she taught and this oddly led to me making this channel! Weird what happens. Cheers
My Thai missus doesn’t want me to learn Thai mate despite my efforts. A word of warning to all who marry one and bring them back to their home country as the majority of them come with a serious amount of baggage that you don’t become aware of until it’s too late be it family, drink, drug or cambling addiction sadly mine has all the above issues. Word to the wise make sure you get a prenup before committing
Hi Nigel. Sorry, just seen this. I can understand why some Thai ladies wouldn't want their partners to learn Thai... you would understand everything that they were saying! Really sorry to hear about your missus' baggage. It must be tough for you to have to deal with. I agree that you have to be seriously careful when choosing the right lady. There are many good ones out there, but there are many not so good ones too. I agree with a prenup too... especially if spending a decent chunk of money on a house or whatever. Daft doing anything else. Anyway, take care mate and I hope everything works out for you, Den.
use alternative words if you struggle with a particular one.... kow ma isn't always perfect but at least you haven't accidently called someone a dog....
Hi, Mick. Couldn't agree more with you! Many times I forget the word I want to say and use lots of other words to work round... of course getting words "come" and "dog" wrong could have some real consequences haha. Many thanks for sharing, Den.
Interesting and you are 100% correct! "Maa" and "sonaak" are synonyms. However, in spoken Thai/daily life, "maa" is far more commonly used. It's the same with pig/pork. Moo and sugorn are synonyms too but the latter is rarely used in daily life. Just like head is "hua"... but it is also "seesa" but you would never hear it in daily life... still good words to learn though! Thanks, Den.
Welcome to the latest video for my channel @KhonKaenDen. In this video, I give you my six tips on learning how to speak Thai 🇹🇭 ... it can be challenging to learn but incredibly rewarding. Remember that learning any language is a marathon and not a sprint and you are never too old to learn 👏. If this video inspires anyone else to learn or to push themselves more, then it has done its job😍. Hope you enjoy. Den.
He was talking about food and how tasty it was...
I'm learning Thai too (2 months) but OP is good!! Great pronunciation too.
@@taccntb4345 Thanks for your kind words! Great that you learning Thai too! The real advice is: DON'T give up! You will get there. Bad days, good days... just keep going! Cheers, Den.
My Wife is Thai, Her Family Praises Our Marriage and We have Their blessing. I struggle on learning the language.
Keep watching, my friend. Videos on language coming up shortly.!!!
It was like watching The Fast Show again....BRILLIANT!!! (if you know - you know...
Haha... been found out! YEP. that was paying homage to I'nt milk brilliant! Well spotted, fella!!! Hope you enjoyed it
Thank you for the video.
Thanks so much. Hope you enjoyed it. Den.
Very cool video. New subscriber. Cheers
Many thanks for your kind words and for subscribing!!! Many more videos on learning to speak Thai (from a westerner's perspective to come. Watch this space. Thanks again, Den.
@@KhonKaenDen i will be going for my permanent residence status this after 9 years in Thailand. I have to focus on my Thai speaking and listening skills. Keep up the good work.
Great advice Den, I like the post it note on everything around the house.
Hey, John. Cheers. Yeah it really works... gets annoying sometimes as they keep falling off but just keep looking at them and saying them... also learn a few simple sentences and you can then switch the nouns that you have been learning. It will all come together if you keep it up! I should stick one on the missus as I always forget the word for "wife" I am sure she would love that. Thanks for sharing. Den.
Live in kk province myself for 20 years. My house is near Na Nong Thum near Chumphae. Take it you are well versed in the local Isaan / Laos dialect 😊
I wish! Not a chance. It's hard enough learning one language and the speed in which they use Thai/Isaan here is really fast. I wouldn't be able to keep up haha. I know. a few words, nothing more. If you can speak the local dialect, then I am well and truly impressed! Cheers, Den.
Great advice, that's pretty much how I learnt to speak Thai too
Cheers, Mike. Yep... I ddi get sick of post-it notes everywhere but it really does help (I can still see them if I shut my eyes haha). THINKING in Thai is also really important as you know! Hopefully it will help a few people improve their skills anyway! Cheers, Den.
@@KhonKaenDen I'm looking forward to more videos like this
@@mikehaines1403 Cheers, matey... I enjoy making them!
Really useful advice, thanks Den. Will try and put into practice....
Thank you so much for your kind words! Hope it helps. I will be adding many more videos over the coming weeks and months on speaking Thai (from a westerners perspective). Stay tuned. Cheers, Den.
Thank you, Den. Your tips are spot-on! I write new Thai words into my phone and every time I pull it out I revise words and sentences. Your advice is really on the mark for learning any new language, especially Thai, since it is a tonal language. Lots of respect for you, because I'm a Singaporean Chinese and I'm used to tones, and it's still not easy for me to learn. Your videos are much appreciated, and your humour is makes it fun to watch!
Hi. Many thanks for the reply... apologies for my late response as your comment didn't show up for some reason. Anyway, I will be adding many more videos on the Thai language over the coming weeks and months and I will still try to add an element of fun to them... otherwise, learning a language can be a little boring, as I am sure you are fully aware. Thanks for sharing. Den.
I want to learn to speak also! I know many words but its hard to make conversation. I could understand the conversation you had with yourself about food in the beginning of the video 😄
Haha... I understand where you are coming from. It is one thing to learn vocabulary (and a great thing) but just try learning very basic sentences and slot in the vocab that you know... I will be doing videos on this veery soon (hopefully it will help you). Most importantly, though, don't worry about getting things wrong. I still do all the time! Take care and enjoy the rest of your weekend. Den.
@@KhonKaenDen I think its like you said. Have to switch the brain to thai-mode 😂
@@pensiobengt Haha. Yeah!!! If you want to speak a language, you have to think that way. It is tough, but one day, out of the blue, it will all click into place! Take care. Den.
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Great videos Den. I'm a new subscriber after enjoying a few of your videos. I am in much the same position you were in - Thai wife, soon to go and live permanently in Thailand, will teach English part time and need to learn Thai. I accept it as a long slow process, and am learning to read Thai. Everyone has a different idea on how best to approach the challenge of learning a new language, and provide conflicting tip, but I think everyone who is motivated finds their best way. I like your emphasis on tones, and have experienced that lack of understanding from mispronunciation. Look forward to viewing more of your videos.
Hi Den I found your channel on Friday & im really enjoying it. Your video on living expenses was really helpful as was today’s video.
Hi, Adrian. Many thanks for your kind words. I am happy that you find them useful and I will be adding many more videos over the coming months and I hope that they help you too! Including many on speaking Thai, Khon Kaen/Isan living and, of course, food!!! My missus loves eating! Thanks again, Den.
i have tried and am still trying to learn thai, many people advise to learn to read thai as it helps with pronunciation and tones, but my girl lives in surin and they nearly all speak khmer, or essaan and struggled to be understood as my tones were all wrong, just starting again watching nursery ryhmes in thai 55 55, but i find it very difficult without feed back, thinking of having some lessons or tuition when i get out there, Thanks for sharing and congratulations on reaching 500 subs 1000 is just on the horizon good luck with your channel,
Hi, Phill. Reading and writing is, of course, much better in the long run, but you can happily just learn conversational Thai and speak perfectly. I did it the wrong way, but it works for me. I would like to read and write at some point in the near future if I can. Thanks for sharing and yeah... literally saw 500 subs yesterday (done a little thank you vid on it)... will be out tomorrow. Cheers. Den.
Great vid mate
Cheers, fella. Many more videos on learning to speak Thai (from a westerner's perspective to come. Watch this space. Thanks again, Den.
My one tip I always give everyone is to learn to read even before you can speak properly. If you can do this you'll be flooded with new words on a daily basis and all you need to do is ask people what they mean as you go about your day.
Too right. In an ideal world, learning to read and write from the outset is, of course, the best way to learn and you have you pronouncing words correctly. I wish I had done that from the outset. I am learning to read and write now but wish I had done it a long time ago. Many thanks for sharing. Den.
@@KhonKaenDenI didn't mention pronunciation but reading really helped me here too because I can cross reference words actual pronunciation with what I think I heard (which is often wrong).
@@HairyPixels Too right. I couldn't agree more. I am literally learning to read right now haha... I WILL help no end and enrich my life for sure. Thanks again for sharing. Den.
@@HairyPixels I couldn't agree more! I am literally learning to read and write right now. And yes, with so many very similar sounding words, being able to read makes an enormous difference.... and can be misheard or misunderstood. Thanks again for sharing. Den.
@@KhonKaenDen I did your same method of writing down a single letter every day and filling a notebook page. It's so much easier to read than English, only took a few months to get a good grasp of it.
I can say a bit . But reckon your video's could be invaluable. Just subscribed to your channel. Thanks
Wonderful. Thanks so much for your kind words. I will be adding many more videos about speaking Thai (from a foreigner's perspective) and hope they will help you learn... if you can learn Thai, it makes the experience here so much better. Thanks again and good luck learning Thai. Den.
Greetings from Japan....Used the exact same Thai textbook and also found it very helpful. Appreciate your down to earth style and the interesting topics. Just subscribed...
Wonderful!!! Thank you so much for you kind words, David! Thank you for subscribing and say hello to Japan! Would love to visit one day! Cheers, Den.
Excellent advice, Dennis. As always, thank you.
Thanks again for your kind words, David! Hope it inspires a few people to dust down their old Thai books and give learning the language a go! Well worth it... even if just very basic Thai. Thanks again and enjoy the rest of your weekend. Den.
Great video! I'm making the perminant move to Thailand on Friday 🙂. I am very keen to learn the language. Looking forward to more speaking Thai videos. Great work!
Thank you so much for your kind words. As long as you want to learn, you most certainly can! It is very much about determination. Once you are here in Thailand, you will find it much easier! Watch this space for more speaking Thai videos. Cheers, Den.
I watched a million hours (not really, maybe 900.000) of learn thai video's, just to realise that my fambam speaks Isan 😮 sure everyone speaks Thai, but on a daily basis its pure Isan 😳 challenge accepted 😅
Haha... yep. Isan is a tough place as many speak Isan and not even Thai... Not only that, when Isan people speak Thai, it seems quite harsh and quickly spoken compared to central Thai. But, most Isan folk can speak Thai so I would concentrate on Thai... though it always goes down well if you can throw in the odd Isan word into the mix. Good luck with it and I will be uploading more vids on learning Thai very soon. Cheers, Den.
Going to try and improve on the six Thai words I currently know
It seems like a mountain to climb but before I came to this amazing country, I didn't know any words at all. To climb a mountain you have to take steps, today I will take my 7th and learn how to say Thank you....
"Car poon cab" (or something sounding similar)
Great video, keep it up 👍 car poon cab
Brilliant. You have the right attitude... just try learning (and using) one word a day... JUST ONE. Doing that you will learn 365 words in a year. Keep it up, you can do it. Thanks for sharing. Den.
You did it Den. Thanks so much!! This was an excellent and inspiring first lesson. I appreciate it greatly. Looking forward to further lessons. I will get the book and follow your tips.Btw, the landscape in your neighborhood is amazing. I will definitely visit there.
Hi Derwin. Many thanks for your kind words! If you are going to buy that book, make sure it has the audio too... it helps greatly and improves the tones no end. Furthermore, there is a dictionary by the same author which has the same transliteration and will help you develop your vocabulary bank. I will be doing many more videos on Thai basics etc. that will hopefully help you more! The only solid advice, really, is just KEEP GOING!!! Don't give up and make learning Thai part of your daily routine.
As for the neighbourhood, yeah it is a nice place. That lake is the main public park and there are a few of them in the area. It is a fairly quiet city and not for everyone, but I love it! Many thanks again and enjoy the rest of your weekend. Den.
Here is the dictionary (you might even be able to get it from your local book shop) - this is just a random link to the dictionary so you know what it looks like:
www.amazon.com/Thai-English-English-Thai-Dictionary-Speakers-Classifiers/dp/1887521321
Thanks you so much for the brilliant video Den ✅ Love your style & videos like this ❤️
Thank you so much for your kind words. I hope this video inspires a few people to learn a bit of Thai... speaking Thai makes an already amazing country even better! Thanks again. Den.
How long does it take to speak, read, and write thai fairly frequently?
Are the Thai universities the best places to learn Thai for foreigners?
Hi. Thanks for your comments ... and a good question (or questions, rather)!!! I think EVERYTHING depends on the individual, in all honesty. If you are young, determined and fully immersed in Thai, then I think you could learn basic reading/writing skills as well as speaking, you can learn in 6 months to a year. However, that would take some doing. For your average person, it is entirely possible to learn reading (by yourself) in about six weeks. Writing is a whole different ball game. It is tough as you have to learn to spell every single word (like with any language) but there is something like 12 different final consonant "t" sounds (or the Thai equivalent at least). Because writing is so tough, many foreigners decide to forego the reading/writing aspect. That said, if you come to Thailand, immerse yourself in the language and the culture, don't worry about making mistakes (but learn from them them), you can have a good command of the language in 6-12 months but speak confidently in only a few months (at a basic level).
In terms of learning at university, I never did that. I am sure they are great and offer controlled learning and may help you learn quicker. For me, however, I think many universities teach you more "formal" Thai which is perfectly fine but not always what you would use on a day-to-day basis. I preferred just getting out there. Learning a few words and started hanging out with a few local Thai guys or whatever chatting about football or any daft topic... have a beer and help each other... they help you with Thai and you help them with English. I personally feel that gives you the urge to drive you on... you want to say things but can't... so learn those words throughout the day (write them down and practise) then use them when you meet up.
Maybe a combination of controlled learning at Uni followed by meeting and chatting with locals is the best way forward! Hope this helps. Den.
Your videos are hilarious 😂 And you are of course 100% right. Everybody can learn words and sentences in Thai, it`s not that hard. Or Greek, as you Europeans like to say 😂 Reading Thai on the other hand, is a different ballgame, but farangs very rarely need to do that (although at prescriptions of medicine it might be an advantage). Listening to Thais (or to an app on your phone) is very important, it might be difficult to learn by yourself, in writing only. The tone of some words, may vary up to 5 times, with 5 different meanings.. The 6 steps (you should grow an extra finger on your left hand..) were very well presented, all good steps which make a lot of sense. Solid and good advice!
Btw, wow, I am stunned by that beautiful lake.. Well done, Sir Dennis, kop khun ka 🙏🙏😊😊
Hey, Sarlina. Hope you are having a good weekend. Thanks again for your kind words (as always). Glad you like my vids! I try to get my sense of humour across in them (just like how I taught my kids at school... making it light-hearted and not too serious otherwise they got bored). Yeah, learning Thai seems like a daunting task but if you really want to learn... you can. Just learn a few words/simple sentences a day and USE THEM!!! That is really important. Listening, as you mention, is also massively important or you sound flat and won't be understood. I have heard many foreigners speaking Thai and have a better bank of vocabulary than me, but they don't use tones and it sounds flat... they are often not understood at all. The tones are everything (as you know). I will be making more videos on the Thai language very soon. If I had chopped a finger off in my last video, I could have used that for number 6 haha... yeah, that lake is my favourite. I go there 3-4 times a week to eat or walk around for a bit of exercise (you will see it in a lot of my videos) as it is only a few kilometres away. Anyway, have a great Sunday and take care. Den.
@@KhonKaenDen Sounding flat, that's a good word to use. You're right, many foreigners who haven't been listening well enough, might be hard to understand, even when their vocabulary is good. But Thais mostly try anyway, using our imagination.. That goes a long way.
Another thing, but same topic, it's pretty difficult for Thais to learn English. Mostly because the sound is so different, and the words do not flow that well out of our mouth, so to speak. My background may be a bit different than most Thais', I was born in Indonesia, but have gone through the school system in 3 different countries. Indonesia, Thailand and Norway. Learning extended English at the two latter, through university degrees. So I did learn Norwegian and English while my mind was still working, and open to learning new languages. Now I'm actually trying to learn Mandarin, but I can now say that my mind isn't what it used to be. Learning a new language is so much easier if your mind is 100% into doing it. No obstacles, excuses or delays. Just 100% being there, committed. I feel I'm not there anymore, speaking and writing 4 languages seemed to be my breaking point. Mandarin is just too much. I still learn some now and then, but not at the tempo I used to. I'll get there in the end.
Sorry for going off with my usual nonsense again, you must be bored to sleep by all this 😂 Have a great coming week my friend 😊🙏🙏🙏
@@sarlina1 I agree about English being difficult for Thais, especially away from the tourist traps where they are not exposed to the language enough. Not only that, there are millions of different accents (100s in the UK alone... Scottish to Newcastle, to Manchester (where I am from) to London etc.) and that is not even mentioning the US and every other place!
Wow... amazing that you can speak so many languages and it must have been a good experience for you studying in different countries! I agree that you have to be all in or bust... 100% or nothing. If you are fully committed, then you really can learn any language. I spent years being lazy with my Thai but now I am making these videos, I am going to start learning to read and write. If I am going to be here forever, it is in my interests to do so! Mandarin is a very difficult language to learn and maybe your brain is full already with all the other languages you have learned!!! 😄😄😄 And you never talk nonsense... I look forward to your comments!!! Take care and enjoy your day of relaxation! My Sundays are always "don't do anything" days... Den.
I definitely want/need to learn Thai. Initially I chose to hold off, because my wife was learning English and that need was more immediate since we are still in the US. From past experience I know if I’m not using it every day I won’t absorb it well, so hopefully while I’m spending more regular time there I will be more able to immerse myself in the language and the world view and culture it embodies.
I love the Thai only day idea! Can she also be fined for speaking Lao? :)
Your idea of the missus learning English first (or at least improving it) was the way to do it ... as you say, you are in the US. Once you make it to Thailand, just try breathing Thailand in... learning Thai seems like a daunting task but it can most certainly be done... just do baby steps at first and you will improve quite quickly for sure... you just have to WANT to learn (and you clearly do). Haha... yeah, fine your wife if she speaks in Lao!!! Take care and enjoy the rest of your weekend. Den.
Same for me - it was more impotant for Mrs J to learn English so she could go shopping / work / fit in in the UK. I know a little Thai( I married her :D ). I bought a book the 2nd time I went to LOS way back in 2004 but it was an English -Thai book written by a Thai man and a Dutch man which ended up getting me more miss understood as about 40% of the english was wrong ;. I found that if it was wrong I would write the correct lines in the book but write then phonetically and that helped a lot . As Den said it doesnt matter if you are wrong as long as you keep trying - eventually it will come to you. Also if you listen to those around speaking thai you may pick up on certain things. EG I was once acting the fool and stubbed my toe, - my wife said sum num nar, a few days later my nephew was showing off and fell off his push bike- his mum said sum num nar. The following week during Songkran at NamPong my sister in law was shivering after throwing water around - I said Cold ? she nodded and I replied sum num nar everyone laughed at the ferang understanding sum num nar which roughly means serves your self right . So once you see setances being used is situations it kind of makes sense.
@@mickj88 Haha... little Thai!!! Yeah, you hit the nail on the head with the "sum nam nar" bit... it is the same as trying to speak. Say something a few times and it will eventually stick. If you want to learn and keep going, it WILL happen!!! Just make sure you have a good book with audio! then start pestering your missus!!!! Haha. Take care, Den.
I need to learn thai
You should give it a go, fella. Just learning (and using) a few words a day will help you no end. Cheers, Den.
@@KhonKaenDen think its my age a , l khow a few thingd and always get by with a wave of the arms, never failed yet
But I do want to learn
@@thaitraveller9756 Yeah! As I mention in the video, body language is a big part of "speaking" and waving your arms DOES get stuff sorted out haha... It's good that you want to learn. You could just try one word a day... that would be 365 words in a year! Cheers, Den.
@@KhonKaenDen try weighting phrases from RUclips channel el learn thai
Write it down then forget paper
@@thaitraveller9756 Haha... yep. I forget the bloody paper all the time (and then forget what I was going to say!!!)
Krap khun krap , Totally agree with all of your pointers. I must say your thai is excellent, I find I forget mine as only there for a few weeks a year ( hopefully more perminant soon). I always only used Kap khun krap and didnt ever hear the krap khun ma kap till watching you and now thanks to Mrs J I understand the difference. Keep up the good work mate :)
Cheers, Mick. Thanks for your kind words! Yeah, I try my best and listening to Thais is a great way to learn. If you are going to live here in Thailand more permanently, it is great if you can learn... you don't have to be perfect, just try... and Thais really appreciate it. It also makes you feel great when you ask a simple question or whatever and you are understood! It's an amazing feeling. Yeah, "na" is just a particle word that makes the whole sentence "softer" or more polite. Always nice to add I think! Anyway, thanks again for your kind words and keep watching as I will be uploading more videos on the Thai language over the coming months. Thanks, Den.
Hey Den, I've got a quick question. Do I need to speak THAI when I drive a car in Thai? e.g. a parking lot. I can't speak Thai at all..
Hi, Paul. I would say that you can get away with it, no problem. If you are in the tourist areas, people will be able to speak some basic English. In the rural areas, they tend to just wave at you directing you where to go. Some parking lots have a barrier and give you a card and you generally just hand it back at the end. You shouldn't have a problem, to be honest. Just a nod of acknowledgement is usually enough. I suppose you could learn "Kop Khun Khrap" (thank you). That should suffice. Hope this helps. Den.
Hello, Dennis
I’m Scott’s son
Hi, mate! Nice to hear from you. Love your dad... he is a top bloke! You'll have to get out here one day! Take care and speak soon, Den.
@@KhonKaenDen still in KK
@@Rocco_31 Oh! I had no idea! Take care and speak soon, Den.
@@KhonKaenDen you too, mate
Den, the word wai lart , is that the word for bacteria? Thanks!
Hi, Kris. I know bacteria is basically the same (แบคทีเรีย) which says "bacteria" (but with a Thai accent. It is the same for virus (ไวรัส) which is STILL saying virus BUT with a very Thai pronunciation Wi-rat.... virat... virus. If you just say bacteria OR virus you will be understood. If you put either of those words into Google Translate, you can hear the words bacteria and virus in Thai (which are both borrowed English words but with very Thai pronunciation). Hope this helps, Den.
@@KhonKaenDen ahh thx mate well explained! I know my wife calls computer viruses wai lat which makes sense lol.
Here is two/song steps in learning thai: 1. Get a thai wife. 2. Relax and take a beer. Muhahaha. Just kidding. Nice vlog as usual.
Haha... love it! And can't argue with that sometimes. To be perfectly honest, I did that with my missus for a while... In my early days my Thai was flying, learning loads every day. Going out, chatting learning new stuff. Then I met my future wife then at school as a teacher (where I taught) whose English is better than mine sometimes (she is now a lecturer at uni, teaching English pronunciation). I had to shake off the "hiding behind the missus and let her sort everything" attitude in order to keep learning so I started going out on my own to eat and whatnot while she taught and this oddly led to me making this channel! Weird what happens. Cheers
@@KhonKaenDen Well you succeeded! I hope more will find your channel as it is very genuine IMO. Keep on, Den.
@@mrgullaskruv Thank you so much for your kind words! I will always keep it genuine... otherwise, there is no point to it! Thanks again. Den.
My Thai missus doesn’t want me to learn Thai mate despite my efforts. A word of warning to all who marry one and bring them back to their home country as the majority of them come with a serious amount of baggage that you don’t become aware of until it’s too late be it family, drink, drug or cambling addiction sadly mine has all the above issues. Word to the wise make sure you get a prenup before committing
Hi Nigel. Sorry, just seen this. I can understand why some Thai ladies wouldn't want their partners to learn Thai... you would understand everything that they were saying! Really sorry to hear about your missus' baggage. It must be tough for you to have to deal with. I agree that you have to be seriously careful when choosing the right lady. There are many good ones out there, but there are many not so good ones too. I agree with a prenup too... especially if spending a decent chunk of money on a house or whatever. Daft doing anything else. Anyway, take care mate and I hope everything works out for you, Den.
use alternative words if you struggle with a particular one.... kow ma isn't always perfect but at least you haven't accidently called someone a dog....
Hi, Mick. Couldn't agree more with you! Many times I forget the word I want to say and use lots of other words to work round... of course getting words "come" and "dog" wrong could have some real consequences haha. Many thanks for sharing, Den.
💪 "PromoSM"
Thank you. Den.
I thought dog was sonaak
Interesting and you are 100% correct! "Maa" and "sonaak" are synonyms. However, in spoken Thai/daily life, "maa" is far more commonly used. It's the same with pig/pork. Moo and sugorn are synonyms too but the latter is rarely used in daily life. Just like head is "hua"... but it is also "seesa" but you would never hear it in daily life... still good words to learn though! Thanks, Den.
@@KhonKaenDen thanks so much
@@jakejake2577 Any time! Great that you are learning! Den.
You must remember to teach newfarang only 3word .aroi aroi. Sanook sanook. Sabai. Sabai.
555... I will be teaching those words, of course. And hopefully many more! Thanks for sharing! Den.