Main Translations

English: Gluttony

Thai Primary Translation: ความตะกละ (kwām tāklà) Phonetic: Kwām tāklà (pronounced with a rising tone on "kwām" and a mid tone on "tāklà", roughly like "kwarm tack-lah"). Explanation: In Thai, "ความตะกละ" refers to the excessive or greedy consumption of food, often carrying a negative connotation of indulgence and lack of self-control. This word is deeply tied to Thai cultural values influenced by Buddhism, where moderation (or "กลางๆ" in Thai) is highly prized. Emotionally, it evokes feelings of disapproval or concern for health, as Thais often associate gluttony with physical and spiritual imbalance. In daily life, Thai people might use this term playfully among friends to tease someone who overeats at a meal, or more seriously in discussions about diet and wellness. For instance, parents might warn children against "ความตะกละ" to promote mindful eating, reflecting the cultural emphasis on harmony and restraint. No secondary translations are typically needed, as "ความตะกละ" is the most direct and commonly used equivalent.

Usage Overview

In Thailand, "gluttony" or "ความตะกละ" is most often discussed in contexts related to food culture, health, and personal habits. It's a word that pops up in everyday conversations about overeating, especially during festive seasons like Songkran or Loy Krathong, when feasts are common. Urban areas like Bangkok tend to use it in a light-hearted, modern way—perhaps in social media posts about buffet indulgences—while rural regions, such as in Chiang Mai or Isan, might frame it more traditionally, linking it to agricultural lifestyles where food scarcity makes excess wasteful. Overall, the concept is universal across Thailand, but expressions vary slightly, with rural folks emphasizing moral implications tied to Buddhist teachings.

Example Sentences

To make this practical, here are a few relevant examples tailored to real-life scenarios. I've selected ones that highlight everyday use and cultural references, as they best suit the word's nature.

Everyday Conversation

English: His gluttony at the dinner table always leaves him feeling unwell. Thai: ความตะกละของเขาที่โต๊ะอาหารทำให้เขารู้สึกไม่สบายเสมอ. Brief Notes: This sentence is perfect for casual chats, like when friends are sharing meal stories. In Thailand, it's common to use this in a humorous or advisory tone, especially after a big family gathering, to gently remind someone of the importance of balance in eating—think of it as a friendly nudge during a street food adventure in Bangkok.

Literary or Media Reference

English: The novel portrays the character's gluttony as a symbol of deeper inner greed. Thai: นวนิยายเรื่องนี้วาดภาพความตะกละของตัวละครเป็นสัญลักษณ์ของความโลภภายใน. Source: Inspired by Thai literature like "Kru Khrua" by Sri Burapha, where themes of excess often critique societal flaws. In Thai media, such as TV dramas, this word might appear in stories about moral lessons, helping viewers reflect on Buddhist principles of detachment from desires.

Related Expressions

Synonyms/Related Terms: Common Collocations:

Cultural Notes

Thai Cultural Perspective: In Thailand, gluttony isn't just about food—it's a lens into deeper cultural and historical values shaped by Buddhism. The concept stems from ancient teachings in the Tipitaka (Buddhist scriptures), which warn against "tanhā" or craving, viewing excessive eating as a barrier to enlightenment. Socially, this plays out in customs like the alms-giving tradition, where monks eat mindfully to set an example. Interestingly, while Thailand's street food scene celebrates flavors, gluttony is often humorously critiqued in proverbs or festivals, reminding people to enjoy without excess. For instance, during Thai New Year, overeating might be tolerated but is quickly followed by reflections on balance. Practical Advice: If you're a foreigner using "ความตะกละ," do so sparingly and with sensitivity—Thais value politeness, so frame it as a light-hearted observation rather than a judgment. Avoid bringing it up in formal settings, like business dinners, where it could offend. Instead, use it in social contexts to bond, and always pair it with positive suggestions, like recommending a healthy Thai dish. Misuses, such as applying it too broadly, might come across as rude, so listen and learn from locals first.

Practical Tips

Memory Aid: To remember "kwām tāklà," think of it as "kwarm tackle"—imagine someone "tackling" a mountain of food with greed. This visual link to overeating can make the word stick, especially if you're practicing with Thai phrases during meals. Plus, associating it with Thailand's vibrant food culture, like the endless stalls in Chatuchak Market, adds a fun, cultural twist. Dialect Variations: While "ความตะกละ" is standard across Thailand, pronunciation might soften in the North (e.g., in Chiang Mai, it could sound more like "kwām dāk-lah" with a drawl). In the South, it's less commonly used in casual talk, where people might opt for simpler phrases like "กินมาก" (gin mâak), so adapt based on your location for a more natural flow.