Tuesday 5 March 2013

Language and Culture

Our Thai language lessons are turning out to be a fantastic illustration of how language and culture are inextricably linked. Our teacher has been training VSO volunteers for many years, and the lessons are a fascinating blend of language practice and invaluable tips and insight into Thai cultural expectations and how people interact with each other. For example, establishing someone’s age is more important than their name, as the age-relationship between people is crucial in determining how they will interact and the language they will use.

Here is what I have learned to say about myself so far:

Chan chuu Heather.
Aa-yu sii sib sawng bpii.

Gkin mang sa wi rat.
Rian paa-saa Thai.

Any guesses?!
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4 comments:

  1. Anonymous5 March 2013 at 18:18

    Lorks!
    Sounds like you are in at the deep end but swimming well. So glad you are getting right in there!
    Love C

    ReplyDelete
  2. sarah8 March 2013 at 08:22

    Ok, google translate let me down on deciphering your message but...
    ดีตอนเชามีวันที่ดี Dī txn chêā mī wạn thī̀ dī

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. heatherinthailand8 March 2013 at 12:29

      No idea! That's a completely different phonetic system from the one we are using, and we haven't touched Thai script at all. Hoping it's not rude! :-) You'll be glad to know that the set of coloured fineliner pens are perfect for colour-coding the tones in my notes!

      Delete
    2. sarah8 March 2013 at 14:34

      Of course it's not rude! What do you take me for!

      It says 'good morning, have a good day'...i think:-D

      Delete

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