Gaining an understanding of basic Thai vocabulary is an excellent way to enhance your travel experience in Thailand. One essential word that often comes up when exploring this beautiful country is “island.” Whether you’re planning to visit the stunning islands of Phuket, Koh Samui, or Koh Phi Phi, or if you’re simply curious about the Thai language, this guide will teach you how to say “island” in Thai. We will cover both formal and informal ways to express this word, with some tips, examples, and even touch upon regional variations. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Island” in Thai
If you wish to communicate formally or use the standard Thai language, you can employ the following phrases to express “island” in different contexts:
1. เกาะ (koh)
This is the most straightforward and commonly used word for “island” in Thai. It can be used in both formal and informal settings. Here’s how you can use it:
มีเกาะสวยๆ อยู่ที่ประเทศไทย (Mee koh suay yoo tee bprà-tate tai)
Translation: There are beautiful islands in Thailand
2. หมู่เกาะ (muu-koh)
This phrase is used to refer to an archipelago or a group of islands. It is also suitable for formal situations:
เกาะยอดนิยมที่ท่องเที่ยวมากที่สุดในหมู่เกาะสมุยคือเกาะเสม็ดและเกาะพะงัน (Koh yòt ni-yoom tee tong tîao mâak tee sùt nai muu-koh Samui keu koh Samed láe koh Phangan)
Translation: The most popular islands for tourism in the Samui Archipelago are Koh Samet and Koh Phangan
Informal Ways to Say “Island” in Thai
In informal contexts or when speaking more casually with friends or locals, you’ll often come across different phrases to express “island” in Thai. Let’s explore some popular informal ways:
1. เกาะนี้ (koh nee)
This phrase directly translates to “this island.” It can be used in a conversational manner to refer to a particular island:
เกาะนี้น่าสนใจจังเลย ไปเที่ยวที่นี่ดูดี (Koh nee nâa sŏn-jai jang leoi, bpai tîao tee née duu dee)
Translation: This island is so fascinating, you should visit here
2. เกาะนั้น (koh nun)
Similar to the previous phrase, “เกาะนั้น” means “that island” and is used colloquially to refer to a specific island:
เกาะนั้นเดินทางไปได้ยังไง (Koh nun dern thaang bpai dài yang-ngai)
Translation: How can I travel to that island?
Regional Variations
Thai being a country with regional dialects, it’s worth noting that there might be slight variations in how people refer to “island” in different parts of the country. Here are some examples:
Phuket (Southern Dialect)
In the southern region of Thailand, particularly in Phuket, you might come across the term “เกาะกลาง” (koh klang) to refer to an island:
เกาะกลางเป็นสถานที่ท่องเที่ยวยอดนิยมในมหาวิทยาลัยภูเก็ต (Koh klang bpen sà-thăan tî tong tîao yòt ni-yoom nai mă-hăa-wí-tá-lai Phuket)
Translation: Koh Klang is a popular tourist destination at Phuket University
Krabi (Southern Dialect)
In Krabi and surrounding areas, locals may occasionally use “เกาะงวง” (koh nguang) to refer to an island as well:
มีเกาะงวงที่ยิ่งใหญ่และสวยงามอยู่ในประเทศไทย (Mee koh nguang tee yîng-yài láe suay-ngam yoo nai bprà-tate tai)
Translation: There are large and beautiful islands in Thailand
In Conclusion
Mastering a few essential Thai phrases, such as knowing how to say “island,” can undoubtedly enhance your experience when visiting or interacting with locals in Thailand. Remember, the word “เกาะ” (koh) serves as a standard term for “island,” while variations exist based on formality and regional dialects. Whether you’re exploring the renowned islands of Phuket, Koh Samui, or any other breathtaking destinations, you can now confidently communicate and navigate your way around. Enjoy your island-hopping adventures in Thailand!
