Welcome to our ultimate guide on how to express the word “regret” in Thai. Whether you are traveling to Thailand, learning the Thai language, or simply intrigued by its rich vocabulary, mastering this word will allow you to convey your feelings effectively. In this guide, we will cover the formal and informal ways of saying “regret” in Thai, with tips, examples, and even a glimpse into regional variations. So let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Regret in Thai
When it comes to expressing regret formally, Thai language offers a range of phrases and expressions. Let’s explore some of the common ones:
1. ที่เสียใจ (tîi sĭa jai)
This phrase is often used in formal situations to express genuine regret or sadness. It encompasses the feeling of disappointment and sorrow over a past event or action. Here’s an example:
เขารู้สึกที่เสียใจในการที่พลัดพรากจากครอบครัวของเขา
“Khao rúu seuk tîi sĭa jai nai gaan tîi plát phráak jàak khràawp-khruăw khăawng khao.”
Translation: “He feels regretful about leaving his family.”
2. เสียใจ (sĭa jai)
This simple yet effective phrase is used in both formal and informal contexts to express regret or sorrow. When used formally, it carries a tone of sincere remorse. Consider the following example:
คุณเสียใจเมื่อไม่สามารถเข้าร่วมงานฉลองวันเกิดของฉันได้
“Khun sĭa jai mêua mâi săamâat kâo-ruam ngaan chalong wan-kèrt khăawng chán dâai.”
Translation: “You feel regretful for not being able to join my birthday celebration.”
Informal Ways to Say Regret in Thai
When communicating in a more casual manner or with friends, you may want to use different expressions to express regret. Let’s explore some informal ways:
1. เสียอารมณ์ (sĭa aa-róm)
This phrase is commonly used in informal settings to express regret or disappointment. It conveys a sense of feeling down or bummed out about a particular situation. Take a look at the example below:
ผมเสียอารมณ์ตอนที่ได้สูญเสียสิ่งที่รักไป
“Phŏm sĭa aa-róm dtaawn thîi dâi sŭng-sĭa sìng thîi rák bpai.”
Translation: “I feel regretful when I lost the thing I loved.”
2. ดีใจไม่ได้ (dĭi jai mâi dâai)
In informal conversations, Thais may use this phrase to express regret ironically or metaphorically when facing an unfortunate situation. It has a touch of sarcasm. Here’s an example:
เราอยู่ในสถานการณ์ยากลำบากและดีใจไม่ได้เลย
“Rao yùu nai sà-thăa-naa yâak-lam-baak láe dĭi jai mâi dâai loei.”
Translation: “We are in a difficult situation, and we can’t help but feel regretful.”
Regional Variations
While Thai is mainly a unified language, various regions may have slight variations in expressing regret. However, these differences are minor and mostly involve regional accents or dialects. To ensure your communication is understood across Thailand, it’s advisable to stick to the phrases mentioned above.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now learned how to say “regret” in Thai. Remember, in formal situations, you can use “ที่เสียใจ (tîi sĭa jai)” or “เสียใจ (sĭa jai)” to convey your regret genuinely. If you’re in an informal setting, “เสียอารมณ์ (sĭa aa-róm)” or “ดีใจไม่ได้ (dĭi jai mâi dâai)” are perfect for expressing regret in a more casual and relaxed manner. Practice using these phrases in conversations with native Thai speakers to enhance your language skills. Enjoy your Thai language journey!
