Main Translations

English: Mesh Thai Primary Translation: ตาข่าย (tae-kai) Phonetic (Romanized Pronunciation): dtèhk-ài Explanation: In Thai, "ตาข่าย" literally means a net or mesh-like structure, often made of threads, wires, or fibers. It's a practical, everyday term with neutral emotional connotations, evoking ideas of protection, connection, and utility rather than strong emotions. For instance, Thai people commonly use it in daily life for fishing nets in coastal regions, sports equipment like soccer goals, or even metaphorical contexts, such as describing social networks ("เครือข่ายสังคม"). In rural areas, it carries a sense of tradition and resourcefulness—think of fishermen in the south repairing their nets—while in urban settings like Bangkok, it might appear in tech discussions, such as a "mesh network" for Wi-Fi. This word highlights Thailand's blend of traditional and modern life, where ancient fishing practices coexist with digital innovations.

Secondary Translations:

Usage Overview

In Thailand, "mesh" and its translations are versatile and appear in both literal and figurative scenarios. For example, "ตาข่าย" is a staple in everyday conversations among rural communities, especially in places like Chiang Mai or southern provinces, where it's tied to agriculture and fishing. In contrast, urban dwellers in Bangkok might use it more abstractly in business or tech talks, such as describing interconnected systems. Regional differences are subtle: rural areas emphasize physical applications (e.g., mosquito nets for protection), while urban or tourist-heavy spots like Phuket incorporate it into modern contexts, like event planning or networking events. Overall, it's a word that bridges Thailand's traditional roots with contemporary needs, making it essential for travelers navigating diverse environments.

Example Sentences

Here are a few practical examples showcasing "mesh" in various contexts. I've selected scenarios that best highlight its everyday relevance in Thailand, focusing on conversation, travel, and a business angle for broader applicability. Everyday Conversation English: The old fishing net is starting to mesh together again after the repair. Thai: ตาข่ายตกปลาเก่าๆ เริ่มเข้ากันอีกครั้งหลังจากซ่อมแล้ว (Tae-kai dtòk bplaa gào-gào, dtart khao gan eek krang lng jaak sòm laew). Brief Notes: This sentence is perfect for casual chats, like when visiting a seaside market in Hua Hin. It uses "เข้ากัน" to show how things fit or connect, reflecting the Thai value of resourcefulness and community repair work—don't be surprised if locals share stories about their family's nets! Business Context English: Our new software uses a mesh network to ensure seamless connectivity across offices. Thai: ซอฟต์แวร์ใหม่ของเรานำระบบเมชมาใช้เพื่อให้การเชื่อมต่อราบรื่นทั่วทุกสำนักงาน (Sòft-wɛ̀ɛr mài kǎw rao náam rabop mesh maa chái pêu yang gaan chûem dtàw rab ruen tàw tûk sǎm-kan). Usage Context: You'd hear this in a Bangkok business meeting, perhaps during a tech startup pitch. In Thailand's fast-growing digital sector, emphasizing "mesh" for reliability aligns with cultural norms of harmony and efficiency—always pair it with polite language to maintain "kreng jai" (consideration for others). Practical Travel Phrase English: Can I buy a mesh bag for carrying fruits at the market? Thai: ฉันสามารถซื้อถุงตาข่ายสำหรับพกพาผลไม้ที่ตลาดได้ไหม (Chăn sǎa-mârt súai tûng tae-kai sǎm-ráb bpòk-bpáa pàl-máa tîi dtà-làt dâi mǎi). Travel Tip: When shopping at bustling markets like Chatuchak in Bangkok, using this phrase shows respect for local vendors. Thais appreciate polite inquiries, so add "khrap" (for men) or "kha" (for women) at the end. It's a great way to engage with street culture while being practical—mesh bags are eco-friendly and commonly used for fresh produce.

Related Expressions

Synonyms/Related Terms: Common Collocations:

Cultural Notes

Thai Cultural Perspective: In Thailand, words like "ตาข่าย" carry subtle cultural weight, symbolizing interconnectedness and resilience—core values in a society influenced by Buddhism and community life. Historically, fishing nets have been vital in southern coastal regions, appearing in folklore and festivals like the Songkran water festival, where they metaphorically represent catching good fortune. Socially, it's tied to "sanuk" (fun and enjoyment), as seen in sports or communal activities. Interestingly, in urban contexts, the tech adaptation of "mesh" reflects Thailand's rapid modernization, yet it still evokes a sense of "mai pen rai" (no worries) philosophy, emphasizing smooth, effortless connections. Practical Advice: For foreigners, use "ตาข่าย" in literal situations to avoid confusion, and always observe context—Thais might interpret it metaphorically in conversations. Etiquette-wise, pair it with a smile and modest tone to align with Thai politeness; misusing it in formal settings could come off as overly direct. If you're unsure, ask for clarification—Thais are welcoming and will appreciate your effort to connect culturally.

Practical Tips

Memory Aid: To remember "ตาข่าย" (dtèhk-ài), visualize a fisherman's net (tae-kai sounds like "take eye," as in something that "takes in" or captures). Pair it with a cultural association, like imagining a Thai beach scene with nets, to make pronunciation stick—practice saying it with a rising tone on the second syllable for authenticity. Dialect Variations: Pronunciation can vary slightly by region; in the North, like Chiang Mai, it might sound softer as "dtèh-kài," while in the South, it's more clipped due to local accents. If you're traveling, locals will understand the standard form, but adapting shows cultural sensitivity—always listen and mimic for better rapport.

This entry is designed to be your go-to resource for mastering "mesh" in Thai contexts, blending language learning with real-world insights. For more words, explore our English-Thai dictionary series, optimized for travelers and learners searching for authentic Thai language tips!