Jai Yen Yen

One of the most repeated phrases in our training so far is Jai Yen Yen, which translates to cool your heart. Our trainers use it often to remind us to be patient and not anxious, they use it when we become confused or frustrated in our language sessions, and they use it in response to our many “what if” and “what happens when” questions. It is definitely a phrase that I will definitely be chanting to myself throughout the next few weeks, and possibly beyond.

We started learning to read and write Thai yesterday. The script is so beautiful, I can’t wait to learn more, but for now, the focus is on speaking and understanding, with a huge emphasis on tones and proper pronunciation. As we move into our homes and communities, some other words and phrases to know, include:

Di chan mai gin moo gap ahantalae. (I do not eat pork and shellfish)

Di chan imlauka. (My stomach is full)

Nee aria ka? (What is this?)

Nan aria ka? (What is that?)

Gii baht ka? (How much is that?)

Dai Mai ka? (Is this okay?)

Mai dai ka. (This is not okay)

Dai ka. (This is okay)

Chaii mai ka? (Is it correct?)

Prom mai ka? (Are you ready?)

Mak Mah. (A lot)

Nit noy. (A little bit)

Tuk yah. (Everything)

Tuk con. (Everyone)

Krop Krouwa (Family)

Mae (mother)

Pa (father)

Pamae (parents)

Luk (child/ren)

Luk saow (Daughter)

Luk chaii (son)

Poo yin (female)

Poo chai (male)