Chapter 5
Thai Number
Learning Thai numbers is important for several reasons, especially when you’re beginning to learn the language or preparing to engage in real-life interactions in Thailand.Thai numbers are used in everyday activities, such as shopping, telling time, making phone calls, and traveling. Knowing numbers helps you navigate daily life, such as when you need to know the price of something, ask for a bus or taxi fare, or buy tickets.
When shopping or engaging in business transactions, it’s essential to understand Thai numbers to ask about prices, negotiate, or pay. Numbers are used in currency (baht), and without understanding them, it can be difficult to handle purchases or exchanges.
Thai culture often uses specific numbers for certain customs or beliefs. For example, the number 9 is considered lucky, and certain rituals or events may involve numbers in ways that are culturally significant. Understanding numbers can help you navigate cultural practices more respectfully.
Thai numbers also play a role in the language’s grammar, especially in counting things (like using classifiers for objects). They are also part of many essential phrases, such as asking how old someone is or ordering food.
When listening to native speakers, numbers come up frequently in conversation. If you understand Thai numbers, you’ll be able to follow conversations more easily, whether it’s someone telling you the time or discussing a price.
