Main Translations

English Word: Divisive Thai Primary Translation: ก่อให้เกิดความแตกแยก (gòr-hîe-gèèd kwaam dtàk yàk) Phonetic Guide: Pronounced as "gor-hee-geed kwam dtak yak," with a rising tone on "gor" and a falling tone on "yak." This is a common way to romanize it for English speakers. Explanation: In Thai culture, "ก่อให้เกิดความแตกแยก" carries a strong negative connotation, emphasizing actions or ideas that disrupt social harmony—a core value in Thailand known as "ความสามัคคี" (kwam sa-muk-ki). Unlike in some Western contexts where debate is encouraged, Thai society often prioritizes avoiding conflict to maintain "kreng jai" (a sense of consideration and empathy). For instance, Thai people might use this term in daily life when discussing politics, family disputes, or community issues, evoking emotions like frustration or disappointment. It's not just about division; it implies a breach of collective unity, which can be particularly sensitive in group-oriented settings like villages or workplaces. Secondary translations include "ทำให้แตกสามัคคี" (tham-hâi dtàk sa-muk-ki), which is more formal and focuses on breaking unity, often used in media or official discussions.

Usage Overview

In Thailand, "divisive" and its translations are commonly used to describe topics or actions that create rifts in relationships, politics, or society. You'll hear it in everyday conversations about polarizing issues like government policies or social media debates, where maintaining face and harmony is key. In urban areas like Bangkok, people might openly discuss divisive matters in a straightforward way, influenced by global influences and fast-paced life. However, in rural regions such as Chiang Mai or Isan, expressions of division are often more subtle or indirect to preserve community bonds—people might use euphemisms or avoid the topic altogether to prevent awkwardness. This reflects Thailand's cultural emphasis on "sanuk" (fun and ease), making divisive language less common in casual settings.

Example Sentences

Here are a few practical examples showcasing "divisive" in different contexts. I've selected scenarios that best highlight its relevance in Thai life, focusing on everyday talk, business, and media for a well-rounded view. Everyday Conversation English: "That new policy is really divisive in our neighborhood." Thai: "นโยบายใหม่นี้ก่อให้เกิดความแตกแยกในชุมชนของเรา." (Nyo-bàay mài níi gòr-hîe-gèèd kwaam dtàk yàk nai chum-chon kôrng rao.) Brief Notes: This sentence might come up during a casual chat with neighbors in Bangkok, where people are more vocal about local issues. In Thai culture, it's wise to soften such statements with phrases like "pen khwam khit" (just my thought) to avoid escalating tension and keep the conversation light-hearted. Business Context English: "The CEO's decision has been quite divisive among the team members." Thai: "การตัดสินใจของซีอีโอทำให้เกิดความแตกแยกในทีม." (Gaan dtàt-sĭn jàt kôrng see-ee-o tham-hâi gèèd kwaam dtàk yàk nai tim.) Usage Context: Imagine a team meeting in a Bangkok office, where discussions about company changes could lead to disagreements. In Thai business settings, it's common to address divisive issues indirectly, perhaps by suggesting alternatives first, to uphold respect and avoid "lost face" situations. Literary or Media Reference English: "The novel explores how divisive politics can tear families apart." Thai: "นวนิยายเรื่องนี้สำรวจว่าการเมืองที่ก่อให้เกิดความแตกแยกสามารถทำลายครอบครัวได้อย่างไร." (Naw-ni-yaay rûeng níi sǎm-rùet wâa gaan meuang thîi gòr-hîe-gèèd kwaam dtàk yàk sǎ-mrat tham-lai krôp-khwaa dâi yàang rai.) Source: This draws from Thai media, like discussions in novels or news articles about political unrest, such as those referencing the 2014 coup. In Thai literature, divisive themes often highlight the tension between tradition and modernity, making it a popular motif in contemporary stories.

Related Expressions

Synonyms/Related Terms: Common Collocations:

Cultural Notes

Thai Cultural Perspective: In Thailand, words like "divisive" touch on deep-seated values of unity and respect, rooted in Buddhist principles and historical events like the Ayutthaya Kingdom's emphasis on social cohesion. For instance, divisive behavior is often seen as a threat to "mai pen rai" (a laid-back attitude that avoids confrontation), and it's frequently linked to political history, such as the color-coded protests in Bangkok. Interestingly, while urban Thais might engage with divisive ideas through social media, rural communities use it to reinforce the importance of village solidarity, turning potential conflicts into opportunities for reconciliation. Practical Advice: If you're a foreigner, use terms like "ก่อให้เกิดความแตกแยก" sparingly and with sensitivity—always pair it with polite language, like "pom khit waa" (I think that), to show respect. Avoid bringing up divisive topics in social gatherings, as it could be seen as rude; instead, steer conversations toward positive shared interests. A common mistake is assuming openness about politics, so observe cues and err on the side of harmony to build better relationships.

Practical Tips

Memory Aid: To remember "ก่อให้เกิดความแตกแยก," think of it as "causing a break in the circle"—visualize a traditional Thai dance circle breaking apart, which ties into the cultural value of unity. This association can help with pronunciation too; practice saying "gor-hee-geed" while imagining that scene to make it stick. Dialect Variations: While the standard Central Thai pronunciation is consistent, in Southern dialects like those in Phuket, you might hear a softer emphasis on the vowels, making it sound more like "gaw-hee-geed." In the North, such as Chiang Mai, people may shorten it in casual speech to "dtak yàk," reflecting a more relaxed regional style—always adapt based on your audience for a natural flow.