ไม่เป็นไร
mâi-bpen-rai/maj˥˩.pen˧.raj˧/
In Thai, ไม่เป็นไร (mâi-bpen-rai) is the way to say "no problem".
ไม่เป็นไร is a versatile phrase used to say "no problem", "it's okay" or "never mind". It is commonly used to accept an apology, letting the other person know that no apology is necessary. Additionally, you can use it to politely decline an offer, such as saying "No thanks, it's okay."
Meaning: no apology is necessary (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase consists of three parts: mâi meaning "not", bpen meaning "to be" and rai meaning "anything" or "matter". Literally, it translates to "it is not anything" or "it is not a matter".
Which one should you use?
While it is often used to mean "no problem" after someone apologizes, it can also function to mean "it doesn't matter" when you want to dismiss a particular concern.
How do you pronounce it?
The romanization is mâi-bpen-rai. The IPA is /maj˥˩.pen˧.raj˧/. It has 3 syllables.
Did you know?
- In Thai culture, ไม่เป็นไร is frequently used even when a problem actually exists, as a way to maintain social harmony and save face for both parties.
- Because ไม่เป็นไร can mean 'it is nothing', it can be used to dismissively end a conversation if your tone is too sharp.
- The phrase functions as a social 'buffer' in Thai culture, used to maintain 'greng jai' or the desire to avoid bothering others.
Examples in context
- ไม่เป็นไรครับ ผมไม่โกรธmai pen rai khrap phom mai krotNo problem, I am not angry.
- ไม่เป็นไร เรื่องเล็กน้อยครับmai pen rai rueang lek noi khrapNo problem, it is a small matter.
Example conversation
Sirin accidentally bumps into Witthawat in a hallway.
- สิรินทร์ Sirinขอโทษค่ะที่เดินชนkho thot kha thi doen chonI'm sorry for bumping into you.
- วิทวัส Witthawatไม่เป็นไรครับ ผมไม่เจ็บmai pen rai khrap phom mai chepNo problem, I'm not hurt.
- สิรินทร์ Sirinขอบคุณที่เข้าใจค่ะkhop khun thi khao chai khaThank you for understanding.
- วิทวัส Witthawatไม่เป็นไรครับ ยินดีครับmai pen rai khrap yin di khrapNo problem, my pleasure.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ไม่เป็นไร, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
