Thais are known for their friendliness, but you may be wondering: how easy is it to talk with them? And most of all, do they speak English? In this article, we’ll explore the prevalence of English in Thailand and provide a few practical tips for communication.
Do People in Thailand Speak English?
This one isn’t so straightforward to answer. Thailand ranked 101st globally in the English Proficiency Index 2023 by EF, which isn’t great. There are also many blogs online suggesting that a decent percentage of Thais speak English, at anywhere from 27% to 44%, but it is not clear where their sources come from.
In my own personal experience, most Thai people cannot speak English very well. Many people will have studied it at some point in their life, but proficiency is actually quite rare, if you were to sample the entire population.
That being said, they often know very basic English, and this makes it easy to get by in most cases, especially as a traveler, but don’t expect to have full on conversations as you might in places in Europe.
English is still valued by Thais as an important language to learn, but there are many barriers to actual proficiency. This may be because the pronunciation of Thai, with its five different tones, is much different from English. It seems that many Thais are self-conscious about speaking English as well, even if they may know how to read and write it well.
In urban areas, especially in Bangkok, you’ll find a decent number of English speakers, particularly among younger people or those working in tourism. In rural areas, though, English proficiency drops dramatically. Most locals speak only Thai, and while they’re incredibly friendly and welcoming, you might need to learn a few phrases if you’re staying long term.
Tips for Communication in Places with Limited English
If you find yourself in a place where locals cannot speak English, here are a few tips to help you deal with the language barrier.
1. Use Google Translate
This app can help you translate text, voice, and now, even images. It’s a lifesaver when you need to communicate quickly, though not with 100% accuracy, of course.
2. Talk Slowly
Speaking slowly and clearly can make it easier for non-English speakers to understand you.
3. Use Simple Language
Simplify your language. Use basic words and short sentences to convey your message. Avoid complex vocabulary, slang, or idiomatic expressions. (Curiously, all Thais seem to understand the phrase “up to you.”)
4. Learn a Few Phrases of Thai
Unless your stay is short, knowing a few basic phrases in Thai can go a long way. Greetings, thanks, and basic questions are particularly useful. It should only take you a day or two; you don’t have learn the whole alphabet to be able to get around well.
5. Patience and Politeness
Always be patient and polite. Language barriers can be frustrating, but keep in mind that displays of anger are inappropriate here.
Do People in Thailand Speak English? The Bottom Line
The truth is, not really. In major cities and tourist areas, of course, you’ll find a decent number of English speakers. But in rural areas, English proficiency is significantly lower, so be prepared.
