How to Say “You Smell” in Thai: Formal and Informal Ways

Knowing how to express yourself politely and respectfully, even when discussing sensitive topics like body odor, is essential when learning a new language. In this guide, we will explore how to say “You smell” in Thai, considering both formal and informal situations. While regional variations exist, we will focus on the standard Thai language. Let’s embark on this linguistic journey with some useful tips and examples!

Formal Expressions to Indicate Body Odor:

When you want to address the issue of body odor formally in Thai, it’s important to maintain proper etiquette. Here are some phrases you can use:

1. คุณมีกลิ่นหอมเหม็นค่ะ/ครับ (khun mee glin hăwm men kha/krab) – You have a strong smell, sir/ma’am.
2. คุณมีกลิ่นเกินไปค่ะ/ครับ (khun mee glin geern bpai kha/krab) – You have an overpowering smell, sir/ma’am.
3. ขอโทษครับ/ค่ะ คุณน่าจะหอมไม่สดชื่นนัก (khor-thoht kha/krab, khun na ja hăwm mâi sot chuen nak) – I’m sorry, sir/ma’am, but you seem to have an unpleasant smell.
4. ฉันเลียนและไม่สามารถทนกลิ่นของคุณได้ค่ะ/ครับ (chăn lian lae mâi sămăt thon glin kong khun dâi kha/krab) – I’m sorry, sir/ma’am, but I can’t tolerate your scent.

Informal Expressions to Indicate Body Odor:

When speaking to close friends or in informal settings, you can use more casual language to express that someone smells. Here are some appropriate phrases:

1. เฮ้ กลิ่นแกแรงเลยนะ (hé glin gae raeng leoi na) – Hey, you have a strong smell.
2. เฮ้ นี่กลิ่นของเธอเหม็นจังเลย (hé nîi glin kong ther men jang leoi) – Hey, your scent is really bad.
3. แหม ฉันอับอาย (hăem chăn àp ai) – Ugh, I feel disgusted by the smell.
4. ขอโทษนะ แต่กลิ่นเธอ…พิษมาก (khor-thoht na, tae glin ther… phít mâak) – Sorry, but your smell… it’s unbearable.

Tips for Discussing Body Odor Politely:

It’s important to remember that discussions about body odor can be sensitive, so always approach the topic with sensitivity and respect. Here are some tips to help you navigate such conversations:

1. Choose the right setting: Find a private and comfortable place to have this discussion, preferably away from others.

2. Use cautious language: Be tactful and avoid using offensive or derogatory terms when discussing body odor.

3. Be empathetic: Remember that body odor can be caused by various factors, including health conditions, and it can be a sensitive topic for some.

4. Offer solutions: If appropriate, suggest remedies or offer helpful suggestions without being pushy.

5. Seek professional advice: If you suspect an underlying health issue, encourage the person to consult a medical professional.

Examples of Helpful Phrases:

Here are a few additional examples of phrases that can further facilitate your discussions about body odor in Thai:

• กลิ่นเป็นปัญหา เราควรหาวิธีแก้ไข (glin bpen bpanhăa, rao khuaan hăa wíti kae khăi) – The smell is a problem; we should find a solution.
• ลองใช้ครีมลดกลิ่นดูนะ (long chái khreem lod glin duu na) – Try using a deodorant cream to reduce the smell.
• อาบน้ำบ่อยๆ และสวมผ้าสะอาดทุกวัน (àp náam bòi bòi, lae suam pháa să-àat thúk wan) – Take frequent showers and wear clean clothes every day.

Remember, discussing sensitive topics like body odor is delicate and should be handled with care and respect. By using the appropriate phrases and maintaining sensitivity, you can navigate these conversations politely.

We hope this guide helps you address the topic of body odor effectively and politely when communicating in Thai. Enjoy your language learning journey and always remember the importance of cultural understanding!