Main Translations

English Word: "More"

Thai Primary Translation: มาก (mak) Phonetic Pronunciation: /mâak/ (pronounced with a rising tone, like "mahk" but with a slight emphasis at the end). Explanation: In Thai, "มาก" is a versatile word that conveys the idea of "more" in terms of quantity, intensity, or comparison. It's deeply embedded in daily life, often reflecting Thailand's cultural emphasis on abundance and generosity. For instance, Thai people might use it to express hospitality, like offering "more rice" at a meal, which can evoke positive emotions of warmth and community. However, it can also carry subtle nuances—saying something is "too much" (มากเกินไป, mak geun bpai) might imply excess, which could be seen as wasteful in a culture that values moderation. In urban areas like Bangkok, "มาก" is used casually in fast-paced interactions, while in rural settings, such as in Chiang Mai, it might appear in more relaxed, storytelling contexts to emphasize exaggeration for effect. Secondary translations include "มากกว่า" (mak kwa) for comparisons (e.g., "more than") and "เพิ่ม" (peung) for adding more, which are context-dependent.

Usage Overview

In Thailand, "more" is a go-to word for expressing desires, making requests, or negotiating, appearing in everything from street food stalls to corporate meetings. It's commonly used to ask for extras, like more portions in a meal, or to describe increases in business contexts. Regionally, Bangkok's urban vibe might see "มาก" in quick, direct phrases amid the hustle, while in places like Chiang Mai or rural Isan, people might stretch its use for emphasis in folktales or casual chats, blending it with local dialects for a more expressive feel. This flexibility makes it indispensable for learners and travelers alike.

Example Sentences

To help you grasp "more" in action, here are a few practical examples drawn from real Thai scenarios. I've selected ones that highlight everyday and business uses, as they're the most relevant for this word.

Everyday Conversation

English: I want more water, please. Thai: ผมอยากได้น้ำมากกว่านี้ครับ (Phom yàak dâi nám mak gwàa née kráp). Brief Notes: This is a polite way to ask for an extra serving during a meal, common in Thai restaurants. Note the use of "ครับ" (kráp) for politeness, especially if you're male—it's a cultural norm that shows respect and helps avoid sounding demanding. In daily life, Thais might shorten it to just "น้ำมากๆ" in informal settings.

Business Context

English: We need more time to review the proposal. Thai: เราต้องการเวลามากขึ้น (Rao dtông gaan welaa mak keun). Usage Context: This phrase could come up in a Bangkok business meeting when discussing deadlines. Thais value harmony, so framing requests like this keeps things smooth—avoid rushing, as it might disrupt the relaxed pace of negotiations. In rural areas, you might hear a more casual variation to maintain good relationships.

Related Expressions

Synonyms/Related Terms: Common Collocations:

Cultural Notes

Thai Cultural Perspective: The concept of "more" in Thai culture often ties into the idea of "sanuk" (fun and enjoyment), where abundance is celebrated, such as during festivals like Songkran, when people might ask for "more water" in playful water fights. Historically, it reflects influences from Buddhist principles, where excess can be a double-edged sword—signaling generosity in social customs, like over-serving at meals, but also warning against greed. In media, like Thai dramas, "more" might symbolize ambition, evoking mixed emotions from admiration to caution. For foreigners, being aware of this can enhance interactions, as Thais appreciate modesty. Practical Advice: When using words for "more," always pair them with polite particles like "ครับ" or "ค่ะ" to maintain "kreng jai" (consideration for others). Avoid overusing it in formal settings, as it might come across as greedy; instead, observe and mirror local cues. A common mistake is directly translating without context—remember, in Thailand, implying "more" subtly can be more effective than demanding it outright.

Practical Tips

Memory Aid: To remember "มาก" (mak), think of it as "make it bigger"—visually associate it with piling more food on your plate, a common Thai scene. This links the word to everyday experiences, making it stick faster during language practice. Dialect Variations: While "มาก" is standard across Thailand, in the southern regions, you might hear a softer pronunciation, like "maahk," blended with local accents. In Isan (northeastern Thailand), it could be drawn out for emphasis in storytelling, but it's generally consistent, so you won't struggle much as a beginner.