เข้ามา
kâo-maa/kʰaw˥˩.maː˧/
In Thai, the phrase for "come in" is เข้ามา (kâo-maa).
The phrase เข้ามา is used when the speaker is already inside the space and is inviting or directing someone to enter that space.
What does it mean word for word?
The first part of the phrase, เข้า (kâo), means "to enter".
How does it change in a sentence?
In Thai, the direction of movement is indicated by combining the verb of motion (enter) with the verb 'to come' (maa) to show the person is moving toward the speaker.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is kâo-maa. It has two syllables.
Did you know?
- The syllable เข้า (kâo) can also mean 'nine' if pronounced with a different tone, which can lead to funny misunderstandings if one is not careful with tones.
- In very formal settings, such as a royal palace or a high-ranking office, you would not use เข้ามา but instead a specific royal term called 'Rachasap'.
- If you are inviting someone into your home, you will likely see them remove their shoes before they เข้ามา as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
Examples in context
- เข้ามาข้างในCome in.This example shows the phrase เข้ามา used in a simple command.Tatoeba #7784327 by pastelite, translation #348091 by Hertz
- กรุณาเข้ามา ประตูเปิดอยู่Please, do come in. The door is open.This example shows the use of เข้ามา in a polite request.Tatoeba #2978358 by melsk125, translation #3423489 by Melina_C
- เชิญเข้ามาได้เลยค่ะchoen khao ma dai loei khaPlease, come in.
Example conversation
Thanakrit knocks on Sirin's office door.
- สิรินทร์ Sirinมีอะไรหรือเปล่าคะ?mi arai rue plao kha?Is something the matter?
- ธนกฤต Thanakritขออนุญาตเข้าไปพบคุณได้ไหมครับ?kho anu-yat khao pai phop khun dai mai khrap?May I have permission to go in to see you?
- สิรินทร์ Sirinได้ค่ะ เข้ามาได้เลยค่ะdai kha. khao ma dai loei kha.Yes, you can. Please come in.
- ธนกฤต Thanakritขอบคุณครับkhop khun khrapThank you.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry เข้ามา, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
