พ่อ
pɔ̂ɔ/pʰɔː˥˩/
พ่อ (pɔ̂ɔ) is the Thai word for dad.
พ่อ is a versatile term used as a noun meaning 'father' or as a direct address to one's own father, much like the English word 'Dad'.
Meaning: informal: a father (noun)
Which one should you use?
While พ่อ is the standard term, you can use คุณพ่อ to refer to a father in a more polite or formal manner.
How does it change in a sentence?
To indicate possession, such as 'dad's [something]', place the word ของ after พ่อ to form ของพ่อ.
How do you pronounce it?
pɔ̂ɔ
Did you know?
- In some contexts, พ่อ is used in phrases to describe a person who is a 'master' or 'expert' at a particular craft, regardless of their gender.
- In Thai culture, พ่อ can be used as a term of endearment or respect for older men who are not biological fathers, such as a beloved teacher or a spiritual mentor.
- In Thai literature and traditional songs, พ่อ is sometimes used metaphorically to refer to a powerful lord or a high-ranking protector, not just a biological parent.
Examples in context
- แม่กับพ่อไม่ได้มากับฉันMum and Dad aren't coming with me.This sentence shows how to use พ่อ when talking about parents.Tatoeba #4284543 by Spanger, translation #4278166 by Mofli
- นี่คือที่ที่พ่อฉันทำงานThis is where my dad works.This sentence demonstrates using พ่อ to refer to one's father.Tatoeba #8673112 by pastelite, translation #4638952 by corbinjurgens
- ทอมต้องการไปอยู่กับพ่อของเขาTom wanted to go live with his dad.This sentence shows พ่อ being used in the context of a father's relationship to a child.Tatoeba #11051362 by Somsak, translation #5784160 by CK
- สวัสดีครับ พ่อHello, dad.
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Thanakrit and Kanokwan are talking about their weekend plans.
- ธนกฤต Thanakritวันเสาร์นี้พ่อจะพาฉันไปเที่ยวwan sao ni pho cha pha chan pai thiaoThis Saturday, my dad is taking me out.
- กนกวรรณ Kanokwanพ่อพาไปที่ไหนเหรอpho pha pai thi nai roWhere is your dad taking you?
- ธนกฤต Thanakritพ่อจะพาไปดูสวนสัตว์pho cha pha pai du suan satDad is taking me to the zoo.
- กนกวรรณ Kanokwanน่าสนุกจังเลยนะna sanuk chang loei naThat sounds really fun.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “dad” translations and entries พ่อ, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
