Main Translations

English: Technology (Note: It seems "tecnology" was a typo for "technology," which refers to the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, such as machinery, computers, and innovations.)

Thai Primary Translation: เทคโนโลยี (Technologi)

Phonetic: tek-no-loh-gee (Pronounced with a soft "t" at the start, like "tek," and emphasis on the second syllable, as in "noh." In Thai, it's often said quickly as "tek-noh-loh-gee.")

Explanation: In Thai culture, "เทคโนโลยี" is a borrowed word from English, reflecting Thailand's rapid modernization and adoption of global trends. It carries neutral to positive emotional connotations, symbolizing progress, convenience, and sometimes even aspiration. For instance, Thai people frequently use it in daily life when discussing smartphones, online banking, or electric vehicles, evoking a sense of excitement about the future. However, there's a subtle cultural nuance: while urban Thais in places like Bangkok embrace it as a tool for efficiency and social status, rural communities might associate it with practical needs like agricultural tools or internet access, blending it with traditional ways of living. This word isn't just technical—it's woven into conversations about education and economic growth, highlighting Thailand's balance between heritage and innovation.

Usage Overview

In Thailand, "technology" (เทคโนโลยี) is a versatile term that's part of everyday vocabulary, especially in a country that's leapfrogging into the digital age. You'll hear it in casual chats about gadgets or formal discussions on AI advancements. Regionally, usage differs: in bustling Bangkok, it's often linked to business and urban lifestyles, like tech startups or e-commerce. In contrast, in northern areas like Chiang Mai, people might emphasize sustainable tech, such as eco-friendly farming tools, reflecting a more community-oriented approach. Rural vs. urban divides are clear—city dwellers use it more frequently in professional contexts, while rural folks might reference it in relation to bridging the digital divide, such as mobile apps for remote healthcare.

Example Sentences

Below are a few practical examples showcasing "technology" in various contexts. I've selected three scenarios that best illustrate its relevance in Thai life, drawing from everyday interactions, business, and travel to keep it balanced and useful.

Everyday Conversation

English: I use technology every day to stay connected with my friends.

Thai: ฉันใช้เทคโนโลยีทุกวันเพื่อติดต่อกับเพื่อนๆ (Chăn chái teknolohi tûk wan pêd dtìt dtàp gàp pûuăn-nn)

Brief Notes: This sentence is perfect for casual chats, like over street food in Bangkok. It highlights how technology fosters social bonds in Thailand, where apps like Line are ubiquitous, but remember to nod and smile to keep the conversation warm and relational.

Business Context

English: Our company is investing in new technology to improve efficiency.

Thai: บริษัทของเราลงทุนในเทคโนโลยีใหม่เพื่อเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพ (Bò-rí-sàt kàw rao long tàp nai teknolohi mài pêr pûea tăng bpà-sèut-tì-pâap)

Usage Context: You'd hear this in a Bangkok business meeting, perhaps during a startup pitch at a co-working space. In Thailand's growing tech scene, it's common to pair this with wai gestures for respect, emphasizing collaboration over competition.

Practical Travel Phrase

English: Can you recommend some technology apps for navigating Bangkok?

Thai: คุณแนะนำแอปเทคโนโลยีสำหรับการเดินทางในกรุงเทพได้ไหม (Khun nàe-nám àep teknolohi sǎm-ràp gān dèun tàan nai grung tèp dâi mǎi?)

Travel Tip: Use this when asking a local taxi driver or hotel staff for app suggestions like Grab or Google Maps. In Thailand, technology aids tourism seamlessly, but always follow up with a polite "khob khun" (thank you) to show appreciation, as Thais value courtesy in interactions.

Related Expressions

Synonyms/Related Terms:

• นวัตกรรม (Nówat-tà-gàrm) - Use this when emphasizing innovation, like in creative industries; it's often paired with technology in Thai discussions about startups.
• วิทยาการ (Wit-tá-yà-gaan) - This term leans more towards scientific knowledge; opt for it in educational or academic settings, where Thais might discuss tech's role in learning.

Common Collocations:

• เทคโนโลยีดิจิทัล (Technologi dijitál) - Example: "เทคโนโลยีดิจิทัลช่วยให้ชีวิตสะดวกขึ้น" (Digital technology makes life more convenient), commonly used in urban Thailand to talk about online shopping or streaming services.
• เทคโนโลยีทางการแพทย์ (Technologi tang gaan bpaèt) - Example: "เทคโนโลยีทางการแพทย์ช่วยรักษาโรคได้ดี" (Medical technology helps treat diseases effectively), often heard in healthcare contexts, reflecting Thailand's advancements in medical tourism.

Cultural Notes

Thai Cultural Perspective: From a Thai viewpoint, technology represents a bridge between ancient traditions and modern progress. Historically, Thailand's adoption of technology surged with the internet boom in the 1990s, influenced by global events like the Asian financial crisis, which pushed for digital innovation. Socially, it's intertwined with customs—Thais might use tech during festivals, like sharing Songkran water fights on social media, blending fun with connectivity. Interestingly, there's a cultural pushback too; many Thais value "sanuk" (fun) and mindfulness, so technology is seen as a tool, not a replacement for face-to-face interactions, like chatting over som tum (papaya salad).

Practical Advice: For foreigners, use "เทคโนโลยี" confidently in professional or tech-related talks, but avoid dominating conversations—Thais appreciate humility. A common etiquette tip is to avoid discussing sensitive topics like surveillance tech, which might evoke privacy concerns. Misuses to steer clear of include over-relying on it in rural areas where internet access is spotty; instead, learn basic phrases to connect personally.

Practical Tips

Memory Aid: To remember "เทคโนโลยี," think of it as "tech-no-logi," linking the English root "tech" (like gadgets) with "logi" sounding like "logic" or knowledge. Visualize a smartphone in a Thai market stall—vibrant and essential, just like how technology fits into daily Thai life. This visual association can make pronunciation stick faster.

Dialect Variations: Thai is relatively standardized due to central media influence, but in southern regions like Phuket, you might hear a softer pronunciation, almost like "tek-noh-loh-jee" with a drawn-out vowel. In the north, such as Chiang Mai, it's similar but could be said more quickly in casual speech. These variations are minor and won't hinder understanding, but listening to local podcasts can help you adapt seamlessly.

In summary, this entry on "technology" equips you with authentic insights into Thai language and culture, making it easier to navigate real-world scenarios. For more English-Thai resources, search for "Thai language learning tips" to continue your journey!