Are you looking to expand your Thai vocabulary? Learning how to say “broken” in Thai can be a useful skill, especially when describing items that are damaged or not functioning properly. In this guide, we will explore formal and informal ways to express this concept in the Thai language. Additionally, we will provide tips, examples, and even touch upon any regional variations if necessary.
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Formal Ways to Say “Broken” in Thai
In formal contexts, such as official settings and polite conversations, it’s important to use appropriate language to convey the concept of something being broken. Here are some formal phrases you can use:
- Khoi
The formal word for “broken” in Thai is “khoi.” This term can be used to describe something that has been damaged or rendered inoperative.
ทีวีเครื่องนี้เสียแล้ว (Tiwi khrueang ni sîa lâew) – This television is broken.
Sua
Another formal word for “broken” in Thai is “sua.” This term can also be used to convey the notion of something being in a damaged or unusable state.
กระเป๋าตังค์นี้เสียแล้ว (Krabao tank ni sîa lâew) – This wallet is broken.
Informal Ways to Say “Broken” in Thai
In informal settings or when conversing with friends and peers, Thai speakers often use more colloquial language to express the concept of something being broken. Here are some informal phrases you can use:
- ใช่ไม่เป็น (Chai mai pen)
This informal phrase literally translates to “it doesn’t work,” which implies that something is broken or not functioning properly.
มือถือเครื่องนี้ใช่ไม่เป็น (Meu thue khrueang ni chai mai pen) – This mobile phone doesn’t work.
หัก (Hak)
When talking about something being broken, particularly in the sense of being physically cracked or shattered, Thai speakers often use the word “hak” informally.
ก้้งนั่นหักแล้ว (Kong nan hak lâew) – That stick is broken.
Tips for Using the Word “Broken” in Thai
Learning how to say “broken” in Thai is one thing, but using it appropriately in various situations is another. Here are some tips to help you use the word effectively:
- Understand context: Consider the context of the situation. Is the item physically damaged, non-functional, or malfunctioning? This will guide you in selecting the appropriate word or phrase to describe it as “broken.”
- Take note of formality: As mentioned earlier, the level of formality affects the choice of vocabulary. Use formal expressions in professional settings or when speaking to people of authority, and save informal language for casual conversations with friends or peers.
- Practice pronunciation: Make sure to practice the Thai pronunciation of the words and phrases mentioned here. Pay attention to tones and intonation, as they play a crucial role in communicating meaning in Thai.
- Expand your vocabulary: While “khoi” and “sua” are commonly used to express “broken” formally, there are other ways to describe different degrees of damage or malfunction. Consider exploring more vocabulary related to this concept to enhance your language skills.
By learning how to say “broken” in Thai, you can effectively communicate situations involving damaged or non-functional items. Whether you use the formal term “khoi” or the informal phrase “chai mai pen,” mastering this vocabulary will help you navigate various conversations with ease. Don’t forget to pay attention to context, formality, pronunciation, and continuously expand your Thai vocabulary for a well-rounded understanding of the language. Happy learning!
