Main Translations

English Word: Figure Thai Primary Translation: ตัวเลข (dtua lek) Phonetic Pronunciation: dtua lek (pronounced with a short "dt" sound like "dt" in "duty", and "lek" rhyming with "neck"). Explanation: In Thai culture, ตัวเลข is the go-to term for a numerical figure, such as in math, statistics, or everyday counting. It's a neutral word without strong emotional connotations, but it can carry subtle cultural weight—Thais often associate numbers with luck or superstition, like in lottery draws or auspicious dates. For instance, the number 9 (เก้า, kao) is considered lucky because it sounds like "progress" in Thai. In daily life, you'll hear ตัวเลข in casual conversations about finances, shopping, or education, reflecting Thailand's practical approach to numeracy. It's straightforward and widely used across all social classes, from street vendors calculating change in Bangkok to farmers tallying harvests in rural Isan.

Secondary Translations:

Usage Overview

In Thailand, "figure" and its translations pop up in everyday scenarios, from basic arithmetic to more abstract concepts like statistics or personal identity. Urban areas like Bangkok use these terms in fast-paced environments—think financial reports or tech discussions—where precision is key. In contrast, rural regions like Chiang Mai might employ them more casually, such as when estimating crop yields or sharing family budgets, often blending in local dialects for a warmer tone. Overall, the word adapts seamlessly to contexts like education, business, and social interactions, but Thais tend to prioritize context over exactness, especially in informal settings, to maintain "kreng jai" (consideration for others).

Example Sentences

Here are a few practical examples showcasing "figure" in different contexts. I've selected scenarios that are most relevant for learners and travelers, focusing on everyday talk, business, and travel phrases to keep it balanced and applicable. Everyday Conversation English: I need to check the figures for our monthly expenses. Thai: ฉันต้องตรวจสอบตัวเลขค่าใช้จ่ายรายเดือน (Chăn dtông trùt sòp dtua lek kha chai jàp rai duean). Brief Notes: This sentence is perfect for casual chats about budgeting, like when discussing household finances with a friend. In Thailand, people often use this in a relaxed way over coffee, emphasizing practicality rather than stress—remember, Thais value harmony, so keep the tone light! Business Context English: The sales figures for last quarter were impressive. Thai: ตัวเลขยอดขายในไตรมาสที่แล้วน่าประทับใจ (Dtua lek yòt khǎai nai trai mas thi lap nâa bprat thap jai). Usage Context: You'd hear this in a Bangkok business meeting, perhaps during a presentation at a company like a tech firm. Thai business culture favors politeness, so pair it with a smile or phrase like "khob khun" (thank you) to build rapport and avoid seeming too direct. Practical Travel Phrase English: Can you show me the figures for the hotel rates? Thai: คุณสามารถแสดงตัวเลขราคาห้องพักให้ฉันดูได้ไหม (Khun sǎa mǎrt sǎa dang dtua lek rảa hâwm pàk hai chăn duu dâi mǎi). Travel Tip: Use this when negotiating with hotel staff in tourist spots like Phuket. Thais appreciate polite inquiries, so add "krub" (for men) or "ka" (for women) at the end for respect. It's a great way to ensure you're getting a fair deal, and bargaining is common, so don't hesitate to ask for better figures!

Related Expressions

Synonyms/Related Terms: Common Collocations:

Cultural Notes

Thai Cultural Perspective: In Thailand, numbers (or ตัวเลข) hold a special place beyond mere math—they're intertwined with beliefs like numerology and Buddhism. For example, the number 8 (แปด, bpaet) is seen as prosperous due to its shape resembling infinity, influencing everything from license plates to wedding dates. Historically, this stems from ancient influences like Chinese astrology, which blended into Thai customs. Socially, Thais use figures to foster community, such as in merit-making events where donations are counted, promoting a sense of "sanuk" (fun) and togetherness. Practical Advice: For foreigners, always double-check figures in business or travel to avoid misunderstandings, as Thai communication can be indirect. If you're unsure, ask for clarification with a polite "pǒm/chan mǎi káo jai" (I don't understand). Etiquette tip: Avoid arguing over numbers in public, as it might disrupt the cultural value of "jai dee" (good heart). Instead, use them to build connections, like bonding over lucky numbers during conversations.

Practical Tips

Memory Aid: To remember ตัวเลข, think of it as "two legs" (dtua means body or figure, and lek sounds like "leg"), imagining a number walking on legs—like a digital display on a calculator. This visual tie-in makes pronunciation stick, especially if you're practicing with Thai apps or flashcards. Dialect Variations: While standard Thai keeps ตัวเลข consistent nationwide, in southern dialects like those in Phuket, you might hear a softer pronunciation, almost like "dtua lek" with a drawn-out vowel. In Isan (northeastern Thailand), people could mix in Lao influences, but it's minor—stick to the standard for most interactions to ensure you're understood.

This entry is designed to be your go-to resource for mastering "figure" in Thai contexts. By incorporating real cultural nuances and practical examples, we aim to make your language journey engaging and effective. If you're preparing for a trip or business trip to Thailand, practice these phrases to enhance your experience—search for more entries like this in our English-Thai dictionary series!