If you’re learning Thai, understanding how to use the word “also” is essential for effective communication. In this guide, we will explore different ways to express “also” in both formal and informal contexts, with examples and useful tips to enhance your language skills. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, this guide will help you master the art of using “also” in Thai.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Also” in Thai
In formal situations, you will want to use polite and respectful language. The following phrases can be used to convey the meaning of “also” formally:
1. ด้วยการเดียวกัน (dûuai gaan diaao gan) – This phrase literally translates to “with the same action.” It is commonly used in formal settings to express “also” and emphasizes unity of action. For example, “He is studying Thai, and I am also studying Thai” can be translated as “เขากำลังเรียนภาษาไทย และฉันก็กำลังเรียนภาษาไทยด้วยการเดียวกัน” (khao gamlang riian phaasaa thai, láe chǎn gôr gamlang riian phaasaa thai dungr) which means “He is studying Thai, and I am also studying Thai with the same action.”
2. เช่นกัน (chên gan) – This phrase is used to mean “the same” or “similarly.” It is frequently used in formal conversations to express “also.” For instance, “She likes to travel, and I also like to travel” can be translated as “เธอชอบเที่ยวเช่นกันฉัน” (thêr chôp thiâo chên gan chǎn).
2. Informal Ways to Say “Also” in Thai
In informal settings or conversation with friends, family, or close acquaintances, you can use a more casual approach to convey the meaning of “also.” Here are some common phrases used colloquially:
1. ก็ (gôr) – This short and simple word is widely used in informal conversations to mean “also,” and it often appears at the beginning of sentences. For example, “I’m going to the beach, and he’s also going to the beach” can be translated as “ผมจะไปชายหาด แล้วเขาก็จะไปชายหาดกัน” (phǒm ja bpai chaai hàat, láew khao gôr ja bpai chaai hàat).
2. ไปด้วย (bpai dûuai) – This phrase can be used to mean “go along” or “also go.” It is commonly used in informal contexts to express “also.” For instance, “They are going to the mall, and we’re also going to the mall” can be translated as “พวกเขาจะไปห้างซื้อของ แล้วพวกเราก็จะไปด้วย” (phuák khao ja bpai hâang sêu khǎawng, láew phuák rao gôr ja bpai dûuai).
3. Regional Variations
Thai is a diverse language with various regional dialects. While the phrases mentioned above are commonly used across different regions, some variations may exist. Here are a couple of examples:
1. ยัง (yang) – This word is commonly used in the northern region of Thailand to mean “also.” For example, “I like coffee, and she also likes coffee” can be translated as “ผมชอบกาแฟ แล้วเธอยังชอบกาแฟด้วย” (phǒm chôp gaafae, láew thǒoe yang chôp gaafae dûuai).
2. พวกเราเอง (phuák rao aehng) – In the northeastern region of Thailand, people often use this phrase to mean “we, ourselves” and it can also convey the meaning of “also.” For instance, “They have seen the movie, and we have also seen the movie” can be translated as “พวกเขาดูหนังแล้ว และพวกเราเองก็ดูหนัง” (phuák khao duu nang, láe phuák rao aehng gôr duu nang).
Conclusion
Mastering the usage of “also” in Thai is crucial to express agreement, similarity, or unity in various situations. In formal contexts, phrases like “ด้วยกำลังเดียวกัน” (dûuai gaan diaao gan) and “เช่นกัน” (chên gan) are commonly used, while “ก็” (gôr) and “ไปด้วย” (bpai dûuai) are popular in informal conversations. Regional variations such as “ยัง” (yang) in the north and “พวกเราเอง” (phuák rao aehng) in the northeast also reflect the rich diversity of the Thai language.
By familiarizing yourself with these phrases and practicing their usage, you’ll be able to express “also” confidently and effectively in Thai. Remember to adapt your language according to the situation to ensure your communication is both respectful and accurate. Happy learning!
