Learning Thai Language in Chennai: Tips and Recommendations

Living in Chennai and wanting to learn Thai language, you have several options to consider. This guide offers a comprehensive approach to learning Thai, including taking classes, self-study, using language apps, and finding suitable online courses.

Starting Your Thai Language Journey

Starting with a professional teacher is often the best way to begin. A teacher can answer your questions and provide guidance, ensuring that you learn the language correctly. However, learning Thai on your own can also be an effective method, especially if you can find quality resources such as exercise books, music, radio, and videos.

Self-Study Methods

Buying a beginner-level exercise book and learning at your own pace can be a great way to approach your studies. Additionally, consider listening to music, listening to the radio, or watching videos and films in Thai. This can help immerse you in the language and improve your listening skills.

Using Language Learning Apps

There are numerous language learning apps that offer Thai courses, such as Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone. These apps provide comprehensive lessons on grammar, vocabulary, and conversation skills. They also include interactive games to help you retain what you've learned.

Online Courses and Private Tutoring

If you prefer structured learning, you might find online courses suited for your level of understanding. Native speakers can teach the content, ensuring that you are learning from authentic sources. Alternatively, consider enrolling in a Thai language course in-person or booking classes with a professional tutor online.

Noteworthy Mistakes to Avoid

Based on my personal experience, I have a few key pieces of advice to avoid common pitfalls in learning Thai.

Choosing the Right Learning Method

It is not always the easiest option, but learning Thai with a teacher is highly recommended. Most resources, especially online ones, do not indicate the common usage of words. Some words may be useful for academic or formal contexts but not for everyday conversation. Hence, having a teacher who can advise you on this is crucial.

Selecting the Right Teacher

It’s crucial to be selective with your teachers. Thai teachers often focus on the subtleties of grammar, such as the difference between “does not” and “doesn’t.” This can be a waste of time. It’s advisable to try at least three teachers before settling down with one. Focus on finding a teacher who teaches useful, everyday words that are commonly used in Thai conversations.

To Avoid Misunderstandings

Thai, being a tonal language, requires precision in word choice. Learning a small set of precise words is often more beneficial than learning a large number of approximately correct words. Thai is a compact language, which means there are far fewer essential words to master than in languages like French, Spanish, Italian, or German.

Approximation works well in other languages, but not in tonal languages like Thai. You need to learn 1200 precise words to understand most daily conversations and to have a good grasp of the language. A good teacher will be familiar with these challenges and will have tools to help you, especially focusing on tones.

For your convenience, here are some key points to remember:

Choose a professional teacher or use language learning apps for structured learning. Find online or in-person courses taught by native speakers. Avoid learning without guidance and choose a teacher who teaches practical, everyday words. Avoid wasting time on unnecessarily complex grammar aspects. Learn a compact set of precise words for effective communication.

I hope this advice is helpful for you! If you have any other recommendations or questions, feel free to share.