One Step Ahead
Have you ever answered a question before it was even asked? In this lesson, you’ll discover ดักทาง (dàk taang), a subtle Thai communication skill where you say what you expect someone else is about to say before they get the chance. Learn where the word comes from, why many Thai people joke openly about their own flaws, and how this connects to เกรงใจ (greeng jai) and saving face.
Through everyday situations, including a friend calling to borrow money, arriving late to work, bargaining over prices, deciding what to eat, and turning down invitations, you’ll hear how Thai people use this technique to keep conversations flowing and avoid awkward moments.
Thai Vocabulary:
ดักทาง (dàk taang) – To head someone off / Pre-empt
กับดัก (gàp dàk) – Trap
ปมด้อย (pom dɔ̂ɔi) – Insecurity / Personal flaw
เสียหน้า (sǐa nâa) – To lose face
คิดไปเอง (kít pai eeng) – To imagine things