Hello again, and welcome to another one of my blog posts.
Today I will be answering another question about Thai culture,
“Why do Thai names start with p?” This is a question I have seen come up many times over
the past few weeks. As a matter of fact, this was the first time I had ever heard about this.
I wasn’t surprised, when you have ben in Thailand for 6 months you will hear and see
all kinds of interesting things. So let’s dive into another unique and interesting Thai phrase.
The word “Phi” (พี่) means elder sibling in Thai. It’s pronounced “pee”, and is used in speech on it’s own or at the beginning of a person’s first name, like “phi John” or “phi Jane”. It is a polite and informal way that Thais have of addressing someone that is older than them.
How Thai People Communicate
Like with many other Asian cultures, Thailand’s culture gives a lot of respect and importance to their elders. Age is a
determining factor in how Thai people address one another, hence you will hear them use “phi” to address someone
that is older than them. “Phi” is used when talking to either gender and doesn’t have to be used with just family
members, even though the word actually means elder sibling. I have also heard of Thais using “phi” with people
of higher status, (in terms of occupation and wealth) not just toward people that are older than them.
You can also use “phi” on it’s own without putting it before the persons name, just in case you don’t know their name.
Now some people may not like being addressed with “phi”, because it makes them feel old. So for you I think
it’s best to ask them how they want to be called.
The word “nong” means younger sibling and is used for addressing people much younger than you (eg, nong Matt or just nong).
Again, this can be used toward either gender and doesn’t have to be used with only family members.
The Honorifics System In Thailand
A lot of the speaking in Thailand is based on the honorifics system. This video explains it well, and also talks
about the naming system in Thailand.
A few other popular ones with Thais are “nong chai” ( younger brother) and “phi sao” (older sister). “Nong
chai” is what they will call a younger male friend, and “phi sao” is what they will call an older female friend.
When they use these terms it shows closeness toward one another.
What Do Thai People Call Foreigners?
Usually Thai people will address us as MR, MRS or Miss and then our first name, like Mr. Matt. The word “frang”
means guava in Thai. It is pronounced farang, and is used to refer to white foreigners. Depending on the situation
and in the context it’s used, it could be seen as offensive. I never ben called a “frang”, and if I were I wouldn’t mind.
What Does “Khun” Mean before Someone’s Name?
“Khun” is another respectful way of addressing people. “Khun” is also the Thai word for “you”.
It’s used in the same way as “phi”, simply say it on its own or use it with the person’s
First name. It can be used with any age or gender.
So If you don’t know a persons age, you can use “khun” instead of “phi”.
It’s basically a substitution for Mr, Mrs or Miss.
It is pronounced as “koon”.
Example: “Khun” + their name or Mr/Mrs/Miss “khun” + their name.
Example 2: “Khun” on its own without putting it before someone’s name.
Example 3: “Khun” mae = respected mother or “khun” kru = respected teacher.
Recommended => Why Do Thai People Say 5555?
Thai Names Explained
Thai people have first and last names like in western society. They do not have middle names, but instead have nicknames.
The wife takes the husband’s last name and so do the kids, just like in western culture.
First names aren’t always picked at birth. A nickname is given first and then the parents will consult with a monk
or fortune teller for advice on choosing the first name. Often, Thai people will change their first name multiple
times throughout their life. Usually after becoming sick or having bad luck, basically for superstitious reasons.
In Thailand, last names are very long. The main reason is because by law two different families cannot have the same last name.
Therefore, they have to come up with a long and unique last name so it doesn’t sound like someone else’s.
Another reason is for spiritual and religious purposes. Last names are also pretty new, they were introduced in 1913.
Thai Nicknames
Thai nicknames are usually western words with no relation to their actually names. Some of these names are very odd
and usually things like animals, fruits, flowers, objects and certain cities. In the workplace and in everyday life
they use their nickname, in formal situations they use their full name. It’s common for Thai people to not know
each other’s first names even though they have known each other for years.
Key Takeaway Points
- The word “phi” is used in speech to address someone that’s older than you, on it’s own or before the person’s first name.
- The word “nong” can be used in the same way as “phi” to address someone much younger.
- Thai people will usually refer to us as MR, Miss or MRS, followed by our first name.
- Honorifics are an important part of Thai culture.
- “Khun” is another respectful way of addressing someone in place of “phi”, especially if you don’t know the persons age.
- Thai people have first names, last names and nicknames, middle names do not exist.
- Thai first names are decided by the parents with the help of a fortune teller or monk.
- By law, each Thai family has to have a different last name, therefore, Thai families will come up with long and unique names to sound different.
- Thai nicknames are very odd and usually given at birth before a first name, they use their nickname for everything, except formal situations.
- It is common for many Thais to not know each others first names, even though they have known each other for years.
