One of the most interesting and amazing traits of the Thai people is their philosophy known as jai yen, which means “chill out.” In their culture, there are certain emotions that must be contained in order not to lose face. So, how exactly do locals express words such as serious in Thai? Let’s get to know that and more in this post!
Did you know that Thai people have 40 kinds of smiles? That warm and friendly grin on their faces isn’t always a sign of happiness. While you may even see online that some people claim that these people never get angry. Let me debunk this one because they actually feel these sorts of emotions too! They’re not made of stone, after all!
How can you tell if locals are angry or serious? You better observe the tone of their voice. But on some occasions, there are rude phrases that they can use to express their feelings. Assuming that you may have done something wrong and you want to know if they took it as something offensive or serious in the Thai culture, then you better continue reading to prepare yourself for a good challenge.
Ways To Say Serious In Thai
There are times wherein foreigners can get a little rude to Thai people, and some can act entitled despite being a tourist in the country. Know that they value their culture a lot, and you trying to disrespect them can get you in trouble. Another thing that you need to know, they’re usually soft-spoken, especially those who live outside Bangkok. So, if you ever raise your voice at them, oh boy, you’re in serious business.
Nonetheless, the word “serious” isn’t always associated with negative things. So, here are some ways how locals say the word serious in the Thai language.
1. จริงจัง (Jing Jang)
Do you remember the time when your friends didn’t take you seriously when you told them you had a problem? Well, in the Thai language, if you want to emphasize that you weren’t joking, saying จริงจัง (Jing Jang), which directly translates to serious in English, could do the trick. In a sentence, you can say ผมจริงจังนะ (Pŏm Jing Jang Ná). Remember that if you say this, you better sound earnest. You can also try directly looking them in the eyes to let them know that you’re not messing around.
2. ผมพูดจริง (Pom Poot Jing)
Another way to express your seriousness is by saying ผมพูดจริง (Pom Poot Jing). It’s just another sentence that translates to “I’m serious” in Thai. However, what makes it different is you put more emphasis on the fact that what you previously said was serious.
3. หนักหน่วง (Nak Nuang)
There are words that can’t be summed up by saying seriously alone. If you’re on the search for something that can describe how grave or heavy a situation is, then using หนักหน่วง (Nak Nuang) is one way to say it.
4. เอาจริงเอาจัง (Ao Jing Ao Jang)
When it comes to expressing a sense of urgency or importance, especially in a situation where there is no room for error, one might use the colloquial Thai phrase เอาจริงเอาจัง (Ao Jing Ao Jang), which literally translates to “take seriously, take seriously.” It conveys a sense of extreme seriousness or even a “deadly serious” tone.
Moreover, this phrase is often used in critical situations where swift and decisive action is required, such as in emergency medical situations, natural disasters, or high-stakes negotiations, as it underscores the gravity and importance of the matter at hand.
Other Ways To Use Serious In Thai
Aside from proving a point that your words are sincere by saying “serious” in Thai, you may also play with phrases that’ll help you express your mind better. If you want to get more knowledge and learn how to use the word serious in other Thai phrases, continue reading this post!
1. จริงเหรอ? (Jing Rĕr?)
Sometimes we can’t just find another person’s experience believable to confirm things, we usually ask, “Really/seriously?”
2. อย่าจริงจังกับมันมากเกินไป (Yàa Jing Jang Gàp Man Mâak Gern Bpai)
The Thai phrase อย่าจริงจังกับมันมากเกินไป (Yàa Jing Jang Gàp Man Mâak Gern Bpai) is a colorful way of telling someone not to take something too seriously. It’s a gentle reminder not to get too caught up in a situation or to avoid overreacting. It can also be used in various situations, such as in a lighthearted conversation among friends or to calm someone who may be feeling overwhelmed.
3. พูดจริงเหรอ? (Pôot Jing Rĕr)
Whenever you’re with your friends messing around is always inevitable. Some stories that one tells can be filled with tons of jokes to the point that it gets unbelievable. So, you may say พูดจริงเหรอ? which can be translated to “Are you serious?” or “Really?” to verify if they’re being serious. Saying this is often accompanied by a tone of skepticism or disbelief and can be used playfully or seriously, depending on the situation.
Overall, it’s a fun and expressive way of expressing surprise or doubt in a lighthearted way, and it can lead to interesting conversations and exchanges.
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