Thai informal pronouns แก (gae), มึง (mueng), and เอ็ง (eng)
In Thai, แก (gae), มึง (mueng), and เอ็ง (eng) are informal pronouns for "you," each with its own level of politeness and tone. Here’s a breakdown of each:
- แก (gae) – This pronoun is informal but less rude than มึง. It’s often used between close friends, family members, or peers, and it can sound friendly or casual depending on the context. In some situations, แก might come across as slightly impolite if used with strangers or in formal settings, but it's generally acceptable in friendly relationships.
2. มึง (mueng) – This is a very informal and often rude way of saying "you." It’s commonly used in close friendships where rough language is acceptable, or in arguments, as it has an aggressive or confrontational tone. มึง can be offensive if used with the wrong people or in inappropriate contexts. It’s also often paired with กู (guu) for "I," giving the whole conversation a rougher, more informal tone.
3. เอ็ง (eng) – This pronoun is old-fashioned and is often used in rural or traditional settings, as well as in historical dramas. เอ็ง doesn’t carry the same aggressive tone as มึง and is generally less offensive. It’s considered somewhat endearing or quaint in some contexts, especially when used by elders or in regional dialects. However, in modern Thai, it can sound overly casual or even slightly condescending, depending on the context and relationship between speakers.
For polite conversations, it’s better to use คุณ (khun) for "you."
3. เอ็ง (eng) – This pronoun is old-fashioned and is often used in rural or traditional settings, as well as in historical dramas. เอ็ง doesn’t carry the same aggressive tone as มึง and is generally less offensive. It’s considered somewhat endearing or quaint in some contexts, especially when used by elders or in regional dialects. However, in modern Thai, it can sound overly casual or even slightly condescending, depending on the context and relationship between speakers.
For polite conversations, it’s better to use คุณ (khun) for "you."
Comments (0)
Login to comment or send a private message.