Main Translations

In the English-Thai dictionary, "gargoyle" refers to a carved stone figure, often grotesque and mythical, typically found on buildings like cathedrals. It's not a word deeply embedded in everyday Thai language but is used in contexts like architecture, tourism, or fantasy media.

Thai Primary Translation: หินสลักรูปสัตว์ประหลาด (hin salak ruup sat pralad) Phonetic (Romanized Pronunciation): Hin salak ruup sat pralad Explanation: In Thai culture, "หินสลักรูปสัตว์ประหลาด" literally translates to "carved stone in the shape of a strange animal" and is often used to describe gargoyles in a descriptive, rather than direct, way. This term carries a sense of mystery and intrigue, evoking Western Gothic architecture rather than traditional Thai elements. Emotionally, it might spark curiosity or mild unease, as Thai folklore features its own mythical creatures like nagas (serpents) or phi (spirits), which are more protective than menacing. In daily life, Thais might use this phrase when discussing foreign landmarks, such as those in Bangkok's European-inspired buildings, or in pop culture like movies and games. It's not commonly heard in casual conversations but could pop up in educational or tourist settings, where it highlights cultural contrasts—Thais often associate it with "farang" (Western) influences rather than local traditions.

No secondary translations are typically needed for "gargoyle," as it's a specialized term. However, in informal contexts, Thais might simply borrow the English word and pronounce it as "gahr-goil," especially among younger, urban crowds influenced by global media.

Usage Overview

In Thailand, "gargoyle" isn't a staple in everyday vocabulary but appears in niche scenarios like architectural tours, fantasy literature, or discussions about Western history. In bustling urban areas like Bangkok, it's more likely to come up in conversations about historic sites or modern art installations, where English loanwords are common. For instance, guides at places like the Jim Thompson House might reference gargoyles to draw parallels with Thai temple guardians. In contrast, rural areas like Chiang Mai focus more on local myths, so the concept might be less familiar or expressed through comparisons to traditional carvings on temples. Overall, usage is more educational and tourism-oriented, reflecting Thailand's blend of global and local cultures.

Example Sentences

We've selected three relevant scenarios for "gargoyle" based on its architectural and cultural ties, focusing on contexts where it might naturally arise for travelers or learners. These examples highlight practical, everyday applications in Thailand.

Literary or Media Reference

English: The old cathedral in Europe is famous for its intricate gargoyles that ward off evil spirits. Thai: วิหารเก่าในยุโรปมีหินสลักรูปสัตว์ประหลาดที่สลักอย่างประณีตเพื่อป้องกันวิญญาณชั่วร้าย (Wihan gao nai Yu-roh mi hin salak ruup sat pralad thi salak yang praneet pheua pongpaen winyan chua rai). Source: This could reference Thai media like the novel or film adaptations of Western fantasy stories, such as those inspired by Harry Potter, where gargoyles are depicted. In Thailand, such references often appear in books or TV shows that blend local ghost lore with international themes, making it a fun way to connect cultures.

Practical Travel Phrase

English: Can you show me the gargoyle statues on this building? They look amazing! Thai: คุณช่วยชี้หินสลักรูปสัตว์ประหลาดบนอาคารนี้ให้หน่อยได้ไหมครับ/ค่ะ? มันดูน่าอัศจรรย์เลย (Khun chuay chee hin salak ruup sat pralad bon a-kan ni hai noi dai mai khrap/kha? Man du na-atchan ley). Travel Tip: Use this phrase when visiting historic sites in Bangkok, like the Assumption Cathedral, to engage with local guides. Thais appreciate polite curiosity, so add "khrap" (for men) or "kha" (for women) at the end for respect. It's a great icebreaker that might lead to stories about Thai equivalents, enhancing your cultural experience.

Business Context

English: In our new hotel design, we're incorporating gargoyle elements to add a touch of Gothic style. Thai: ในดีไซน์โรงแรมใหม่ของเรา เรากำลังนำหินสลักรูปสัตว์ประหลาดมาใช้เพื่อเพิ่มสไตล์กอธิค (Nai design rohng-raem mai khong rao, rao gamlang nam hin salak ruup sat pralad ma chai pheuaเพิม style Gothic). Usage Context: This might occur in a Bangkok business meeting with architects or designers, where Western influences are common. In Thailand's growing tourism industry, such discussions blend creativity with cultural adaptation, so be prepared for questions about how it fits Thai aesthetics—perhaps comparing it to temple motifs for harmony.

Related Expressions

Synonyms/Related Terms: - เทพผู้พิทักษ์ (thep puea pitak) – This refers to protective deities in Thai culture, like Garuda, and is used when discussing guardian figures in architecture. You'd opt for this in conversations about Thai temples rather than foreign gargoyles, as it carries a more benevolent connotation. - ภูตผี (phut pee) – Meaning "spirits or ghosts," this is a related term for mythical beings in folklore. It's handy in casual talks about fantasy, where gargoyles might be likened to Thai ghosts for a cultural bridge. Common Collocations: - หินสลักรูปสัตว์ประหลาด บนวิหาร (hin salak ruup sat pralad bon wihan) – Example: Thais might say this when describing "gargoyle on a cathedral," as in tourist guides in Bangkok, emphasizing historical architecture. - การออกแบบหินสลักรูปสัตว์ประหลาด (kan aht-bai hin salak ruup sat pralad) – This collocation, meaning "gargoyle design," is used in creative fields like art or interior design, such as in Chiang Mai's craft workshops where modern twists on traditional carvings are explored.

Cultural Notes

Thai Cultural Perspective: From a Thai viewpoint, gargoyles represent an exotic slice of Western history, often linked to Gothic art and medieval Europe, which contrasts with Thailand's own rich tradition of mythical guardians. For instance, Thai temples feature carvings of Garuda or nagas, which are seen as protectors rather than the fearsome, rain-spouting figures of gargoyles. Historically, this word might evoke interest during the colonial era when Western architecture influenced places like Bangkok. Socially, it's a lighthearted topic in media, symbolizing cultural exchange—Thais might joke about gargoyles as "farang ghosts" in movies or festivals. An interesting fact: During Loy Krathong or other festivals, people create floating decorations inspired by mythical creatures, occasionally drawing from global influences like gargoyles for a fusion twist. Practical Advice: For foreigners, use "gargoyle" sparingly and explain it if needed, as Thais may not be immediately familiar. Etiquette-wise, avoid comparing it directly to Thai spirits to prevent unintended offense—frame it as a "cool foreign idea." If you're misusing the term, locals will likely correct you kindly, so embrace it as a learning opportunity. In social settings, linking it to shared themes like protection can make conversations more relatable and engaging.

Practical Tips

Memory Aid: To remember "หินสลักรูปสัตว์ประหลาด," think of it as "stone carving of a strange animal"—visualize a quirky monster statue on a rainy day, linking to the word's origin in water drainage (gargoyles often spout water). For pronunciation, break it down: "Hin" sounds like "heen" (as in "seen"), and practice with a Thai phrase app to make it stick through repetition. Dialect Variations: Gargoyle isn't a native Thai word, so regional differences are minimal. However, in the North like Chiang Mai, people might pronounce it more slowly as "hin salak ruup sat pra-lad" with a softer tone, influenced by Northern dialects. In the South, it could be shortened or mixed with English, like "gahr-goil hin," reflecting the region's exposure to international tourism. Always listen and adapt to local speech for the best results!