Are you planning a trip to Thailand and want to know how to say “mall” in Thai? Look no further! In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “mall” in Thai, along with some regional variations if necessary. Whether you’re visiting Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or any other part of Thailand, these tips and examples will help you navigate shopping centers with ease.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Mall”
When you’re in formal settings and wish to use a more polite term for “mall” in Thai, you can use the word “ตลาดสายพันธุ์” (talat sai phan). This term translates to “department store” or “shopping center” in English and is commonly used in official conversations or when talking to elders or strangers.
For example:
หนูไปที่ตลาดสายพันธุ์เพื่อซื้อสินค้า (nǔu bpai thîi talat sai phan pheûa s̄eụ̄x s̄in k̄ĥā)
I went to the department store to buy goods.
In formal situations, it is essential to use polite vocabulary and speak with respect. Using “ตลาดสายพันธุ์” reflects your understanding of Thai culture and customs.
2. Informal Ways to Say “Mall”
If you’re in a casual setting or having a conversation with friends, there are a couple of informal terms you can use to refer to a “mall” in Thai. The most common way to say “mall” informally is to use the word “ห้าง” (hāng). This term is widely understood and used in everyday conversations.
For example:
เราจะไปหาเสื้อใหม่ที่ห้าง (rao jà bpai hǎa s̄eụ̄x m̀ai thī̀ hāng)
We’re going to find new clothes at the mall.
Another informal term you can use is “ศูนย์การค้า” (s̄ūnyạ ākā k̄há). This translates to “shopping center” and is commonly used in informal conversations.
For example:
อาจารย์ไปที่ศูนย์การค้าที่ปากกาเลย (ācāry bpai thī s̄ūnyạ ākā k̄há thī̀ pāk kā leīy)
The teacher went to the shopping center at Pak Kha Loi.
Using these informal terms will help you blend in with the locals and feel more comfortable during your conversations.
3. Tips and Regional Variations
While the above terms are widely used across Thailand, there might be some regional variations in terms of how people refer to a “mall.” Here are a few extra tips to help you navigate regional variations:
- Bangkok: In Bangkok, you can also use the term “เซ็นทรัล” (sēn tral) to refer to shopping centers. This term is especially prevalent in larger malls and shopping complexes.
- Chiang Mai: In Chiang Mai, locals often refer to a “mall” as “กาดร้า” (kāt rá).
- Phuket: In Phuket, both the formal term “ตลาดสายพันธุ์” (talat sai phan) and the informal term “ห้าง” (hāng) are commonly used.
It’s always good to do some research about the specific region you are visiting to learn about any local terms they might use for a “mall.”
Conclusion
Learning how to say “mall” in Thai will undoubtedly enhance your experience shopping and interacting with locals during your visit to Thailand. Remember to use the formal term “ตลาดสายพันธุ์” (talat sai phan) in formal settings or when speaking to elders, and use the more informal terms “ห้าง” (hāng) or “ศูนย์การค้า” (s̄ūnyạ ākā k̄há) when having casual conversations with friends or peers. Don’t forget to consider any regional variations, such as “เซ็นทรัล” (sēn tral) in Bangkok or “กาดร้า” (kāt rá) in Chiang Mai. By using these terms appropriately, you’ll be able to communicate effectively and enjoy your shopping experiences to the fullest!
