Apologising in Thai isn’t just about the words - it’s about the tone, the body language, and the cultural context. Get it wrong, and you might accidentally make things worse. Here’s how to say sorry like a local.
Basic Thai Apology Phrases
ขอโทษ (khǎaw-thôot)
/kʰɔː˩˩˦.tʰoːt̚˥˩/“Sorry / Excuse me”
The most common way to apologise, suitable for minor mistakes like bumping into someone or interrupting.
ขอโทษจริงๆ (khǎaw-thôot jing-jing)
/kʰɔ̂ː tʰôːt tɕiŋ tɕiŋ/“I’m really sorry”
A more sincere version, used when you’ve made a bigger mistake or caused genuine inconvenience.
ผม/ฉัน ขอโทษ (phǒm/chǎn khǎaw-thôot)
/pʰǒm/tɕʰǎn kʰɔ̂ː tʰôːt/“I apologise (formal)”
Adds formality. Use "phǒm" if you’re male, "chǎn" if female. Best for professional settings.
When Words Aren’t Enough
In Thailand, how you apologise often matters more than what you say. A few non-verbal cues to remember:
- The wai: A slight bow with hands pressed together (like praying) shows respect. The higher your hands, the more formal the apology.
- Lower your head slightly when saying "khǎaw-thôot" to show humility.
- Avoid direct eye contact - it can come across as confrontational.
Never shout or lose your temper while apologising. Staying calm and composed is key to saving face - for both you and the other person.
Situational Apologies
| Situation | Phrase | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Late to a meeting | ขอโทษที่มาสาย (khǎaw-thôot thîi maa sǎay) | Add a brief explanation if appropriate, e.g., "รถติด" (traffic jam). |
| Breaking something | ผม/ฉัน ขอโทษมากครับ/ค่ะ (phǒm/chǎn khǎaw-thôot mâak khráp/kâ) | Offer to replace or pay for the item if possible. |
| Cultural faux pas (e.g., touching someone’s head) | ขอโทษครับ/ค่ะ ไม่รู้ (khǎaw-thôot khráp/kâ, mâi rúu) | "I didn’t know" softens the apology, as ignorance is more forgivable. |
What Not to Do
- Over-apologising: Thais value harmony, but excessive apologies can make others uncomfortable. Keep it proportionate.
- Blame-shifting: Saying "but..." after an apology negates it entirely.
- Using slang or casual apologies (like "โทษที" /thôot-thii/) in formal settings - it’s like saying "my bad" to your boss.
Going Beyond Apologies
Sometimes, actions speak louder than words. In Thailand, a small gift (like snacks or flowers) or treating the person to a meal can help smooth things over. For more on Thai social etiquette, check out our guide to Thai street market language.
Remember: A genuine smile goes a long way. Even if your Thai isn’t perfect, showing you’re trying to respect local customs will earn you goodwill.
