Thread: A question about context

Take ‘mai pann rai’.

Is it true that the phrase has different meanings depending on context?

Near as I can tell it can mean:
* “You are welcome.” after thanking someone for a good deed.
* “No problem.” to defuse a situation that may become heated.

I find its really easy to equate it with english “No worries, not a problem.” true?

And as usual always best to add “khrab” at the end to be polite?

Not that any situations have become heated, except when me being a stupid aussie who is used to pay as you go drinking walked out for a smoke an left his checkbin on the table. Only had to do it once to learn the lesson.

As far as I know it means "No problem". Say it with a smile on your face, for example if pretty young waitress drops scalding hot coffee all over your ball sack and says "solly".

Originally Posted by Bazzy

Take ‘mai pann rai’.

Is it true that the phrase has different meanings depending on context?

Near as I can tell it can mean:
* “You are welcome.” after thanking someone for a good deed.
* “No problem.” to defuse a situation that may become heated.

I find its really easy to equate it with english “No worries, not a problem.” true?

And as usual always best to add “khrab” at the end to be polite?

"It doesn't matter." — "Never mind." — "You're welcome" — "Don't mention it." — "It's no big deal."

thai-language.com - Dictionary

It can mean " who gives a flying fuck'

'Mai Pen Rai' has many meanings depending on the situation.

If you are not an advanced speaker, then in general a likening to the Australian English 'No Worries' is fine.

That said, as a non Thai, in most circs, a smile and a nod of acknowledgement will be fine.

It can be used to diffuse a situation where someone is at fault with you i.e. treads on your foot and says 'sorry'. Then a 'Mai Pen Rai' will go far.

Originally Posted by Bazzy

Is it true that the phrase has different meanings depending on context?

context is everything....in any language.

pescator has compiled a good list of possible meanings above.

"forget about it" "it doesn't matter" "you are forgiven" are a few more...

Originally Posted by Bazzy

Is it true that the phrase has different meanings depending on context?

All language depends on context:

FUCK YOU!

1) Papillion, insults me, and I say...

2) Monica Bullucci stands in front of me in her underwear and says 'BB, tell me what you want to do?' and I reply...

3) My best mate, brings me a new beer and says 'about time you got me one back isn't it?' I say, with a smile,...

We could go on forever. All language is contextual all of the time.