Avoiding Direct Words in Thai

Why do Thai people so often avoid saying things directly? This lesson explores เลี่ยงบาลี (lîang baa-lii), finding a way around the rules or choosing softer words instead of speaking plainly. Discover how the expression began with Buddhist monks finding loopholes in monastic rules, how it’s used when talking about tax and the law, and how politeness, sparing others’ feelings and avoiding conflict shape the way Thai people speak.

You’ll hear gentler ways to talk about weight, age, death, relationships and money. You’ll also learn how to politely turn down invitations and sales pitches, and the euphemisms Thais use for sensitive topics such as body parts and sex.

Thai Vocabulary:
เลี่ยงบาลี (lîang baa-lii) – To get around the rules / To speak euphemistically
ช่องโหว่ (chɔ̂ng wòo) – Loophole
รักษาน้ำใจ (rák-sǎa náam-jai) – To spare someone’s feelings
ไม่สะดวก (mâi sà-dùak) – It’s not convenient (a polite “no”)
ไว้โอกาสหน้า (wái oo-gàat nâa) – Maybe next time