Main Translations

The English word "patriarchal" refers to a social system where men hold primary power, often in family, politics, or society. In Thai, this concept is commonly discussed in the context of traditional structures and modern gender equality debates.

Thai Primary Translation: ระบบชายเป็นใหญ่ (Rabop chai pen yai) Phonetic: Rah-bop chai pen yai

Explanation: In Thai culture, "ระบบชายเป็นใหญ่" captures the essence of a male-dominated system, evoking emotions tied to tradition, hierarchy, and sometimes inequality. Historically, Thai society has been influenced by patriarchal norms, such as the father's role as the family head in many households. This term is used in everyday discussions about social issues, carrying a neutral to negative connotation depending on context—positive in preserving cultural heritage, but critical in feminist movements. Thai people might use it casually in conversations about family dynamics or more formally in academic and media settings, reflecting ongoing shifts toward gender equality in urban areas like Bangkok.

Secondary Translations: While "ระบบชายเป็นใหญ่" is the most direct, you might also hear "ชายนิยม" (Chai-niyom), which emphasizes male favoritism, or even the borrowed term "แพทริอาร์คัล" (Patriachkal) in English-influenced discussions, such as in international business or education.

Usage Overview

In Thailand, "patriarchal" and its translations are most commonly used in contexts discussing social structures, gender roles, and cultural traditions. You'll encounter it in urban settings like Bangkok, where it's part of conversations on women's rights and modern feminism, often in media or educational forums. In contrast, rural areas, such as those in Chiang Mai or Isan, might express similar ideas more implicitly through proverbs or daily customs, like the emphasis on male inheritance in family matters, without directly using the term. This reflects Thailand's blend of tradition and progress, where urban dwellers are more likely to critique patriarchal systems openly, while rural communities might uphold them as part of cultural identity.

Example Sentences

Below are a few practical examples of how "patriarchal" might be used in Thai. I've selected scenarios that best highlight its relevance in everyday life and cultural discourse, focusing on conversational and literary contexts for authenticity.

Everyday Conversation

English: "Many traditional Thai families are still quite patriarchal, with the father making most decisions." Thai: "ครอบครัวไทยดั้งเดิมหลายครอบครัวยังคงเป็นระบบชายเป็นใหญ่ โดยพ่อเป็นคนตัดสินใจส่วนใหญ่" (Khrobkhrua Thai dang-derm lae khrobkhrua yang khreung pen rabop chai pen yai, doi phor pen khon dtat sin chai suan luang) Brief Notes: This sentence is perfect for casual chats, like when discussing family life with Thai friends. It highlights how the term feels natural in Thailand, where people often nod in agreement due to its cultural resonance, but use it with sensitivity to avoid offending traditionalists.

Literary or Media Reference

English: "The novel critiques the patriarchal norms that limit women's opportunities in rural Thailand." Thai: "นวนิยายเรื่องนี้วิจารณ์ระบบชายเป็นใหญ่ที่จำกัดโอกาสของผู้หญิงในชนบทไทย" (Nuan-niyay reuang ni wichaen rabop chai pen yai thi jam-kat okat khong phu ying nai chonbot Thai) Source: Inspired by works like those of Thai author Saneh Sangsuk, who often explores gender and society in rural settings. In Thai media, such as TV dramas or news articles, this phrase appears in discussions about social change, helping viewers connect personal stories to broader cultural critiques.

Related Expressions

Expanding your vocabulary with related terms can make your Thai conversations more nuanced and culturally aware.

Synonyms/Related Terms:

• เซ็กซิสต์ (Sexist) - Use this when emphasizing discrimination based on gender, such as in workplace inequality talks; it's common in urban Bangkok among younger generations influenced by global feminism.
• ชายนิยม (Chai-niyom) - Similar to patriarchal, but more about male preference; it's handy in casual debates about family roles, especially in mixed-gender social gatherings.

Common Collocations:

• สังคมระบบชายเป็นใหญ่ (Sangkhom rabop chai pen yai) - Meaning "patriarchal society," this is often used in Thai news or social media to discuss broader societal issues, like in articles about gender equality campaigns.
• ครอบครัวชายเป็นใหญ่ (Khrobkhrua chai pen yai) - Translates to "patriarchal family," and you'll hear it in everyday storytelling, such as when Thai people share family anecdotes during festivals like Songkran.

Cultural Notes

Thai Cultural Perspective: In Thailand, the idea of a patriarchal system stems from historical influences like Buddhism and ancient monarchies, where male figures often held authority. However, there's a unique twist—elements of matrilineal traditions exist in some ethnic groups, such as the hill tribes in the north, blending with patriarchal norms. This word evokes pride in cultural heritage for some, while sparking debates on equality for others, especially post the #MeToo movement's impact in Thailand. Interestingly, Thai proverbs like "ชายเป็นใหญ่ หญิงเป็นเบี้ย" (Chai pen yai, ying pen bia) literally mean "men are kings, women are pawns," highlighting historical attitudes that are now being challenged.

Practical Advice: For foreigners, use terms like "ระบบชายเป็นใหญ่" thoughtfully, perhaps in educational or professional settings, to show respect for Thai culture. Avoid bringing it up in sensitive family discussions to prevent awkwardness; instead, listen first and use it to affirm shared observations. A common misuse is assuming all Thai families are strictly patriarchal, so always pair it with questions to learn more and build rapport.

Practical Tips

Memory Aid: To remember "patriarchal" and its Thai translation, think of it as "father's rule" – visualize a Thai family dinner where the dad sits at the head of the table, linking to "ระบบชายเป็นใหญ่" (rabop chai pen yai). This visual association ties into Thai customs like the father's role in ceremonies, making it easier to recall during conversations.

Dialect Variations: While the standard Central Thai pronunciation is consistent, in Southern Thailand, you might hear a softer emphasis on vowels, like "rabop chai phen yai," due to regional accents. In the North, such as Chiang Mai, people may use more informal synonyms in local dialects, but the core term remains widely understood across the country.

This entry is designed to be your go-to resource for mastering "patriarchal" in Thai contexts. For more English-Thai translations and cultural insights, explore our dictionary further—happy learning!