Their Languages

The official language in Thailand is Thai, with it being the most commonly spoken language by one regardless of their ethnic. Ramkhamhaeng the Great, the third ruler of Sukothai Kingdom, (c. 1239-1298) invented the Thai alphabet in the late 13^th century developed by Sanskrit, comprising of 44 consonants, 32 vowels and 5 tones in Thai pronunciation. Other languages spoken in Thailand are Chinese, Lao, Malay and Mon-Khmer.

Thai language is tonal, referring that words of the same sound are differentiated in meaning by various tones. The Standard Thai has five tones: level, low, falling, high and rising. Thai uses both male and female forms, based on the gender of the speaker. This is shown by the syllable Khrap used for men and Kha for women at the end of sentences. Thai society is very hierarchical. Informal Thai is used with friends of the same age and social rank, formal Thai for elders and people of respect, as well as “Royal” Thai used to address members of the Royal family. Ramkhamhaeng the Great, the third ruler of Sukothai Kingdom, (c. 1239-1298) invented the Thai alphabet in the late 13^th century developed by Sanskrit, comprising of 44 consonants, 32 vowels and 5 tones in Thai pronunciation. Other languages spoken in Thailand are Chinese, Lao, Malay and Mon-Khmer.

Khun is a polite generic form of address employed for new acquaintances and is applicable for both genders. For instance, a Thai meeting a friend named Jane can call her Khun Jane. High-ranking government officials addressed as Than and Ajarn for teach.

English also has become the second language of the country. Such boost is because of the arrival of large numbers of Westerners of the American military. With Thailand as a popular tourist destination and a regional centre for commerce and international organizations, there is also a growth of the number of foreign residents and tourists. English is mandatory in public schools and is now widely spoken and understood. This can be shown by English road signs displayed in many locations of the city.